The Pittsburgh Sakura Project's annual hanami blossom-viewing event, scheduled this year for April 18, has been cancelled due to a recent cold spell damaging buds and a series of tree removals due to a playground expansion project. From an April 3 Facebook post:
Sadly, we must announce that we are not expecting many cherry blossoms this year. Cold weather at just at the wrong time damaged buds on healthy trees. Other trees received major pruning this winter to control the black knot fungus. Those trees are putting energy into making leaves, not flowers. Some dying trees (mostly due to black knot fungus) have been removed, and a whole grove of healthy Pink Flair cherries has been cut down for what looks like a project to redevelop the playground.
Accordingly, our Hanami Event, scheduled for April 18, 2 - 4 pm at Harmony Shelter, will change purpose to an information session.
