Pittsburgh? The most undervalued city in America? Given the steady stream of superlatives deployed by the world’s media in describing this “Rust Belt gem” of ours, this distinction might strain credulity. But the financial consulting firm SmartAsset says given the area’s unemployment rate, high school graduation rate, crime rate, number of entertainment options, housing prices, and weather — we’re not sure about that last one — Pittsburgh is the best bargain in the country, TribLive reports.

It’s the second year straight that Pittsburgh has earned the SmartAsset title, and Mayor Bill Peduto said in this case being “undervalued” is a good thing.

But with all these written pieces extolling Pittsburgh’s desirability, one has to wonder how much longer it can remain an underdog, if at all.

In other news…

There could soon be more protective netting at PNC Park — much more. Pittsburgh Pirates President Frank Coonelly says the team is looking into extending protective netting at PNC Park all the way to both foul poles. The announcement comes weeks after a foul ball struck and injured a young fan at Minute Made Park in Houston and with the league and individual teams mulling the extended netting option, as well. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette / The New York Times)

A Pitt law school alumnus who authored the first draft of the GI Bill is being commemorated by the university for his contributions to a law that has seen millions of veterans educated since World War II. Harry Colmery, a Braddock native, served in World War I and went on to become an advocate for returning service members. Colmery died in 1979, and Pitt recently presented a customized military challenge coin to his surviving relatives as a posthumous honor. (Pittwire)

Bus ridership is falling in cities nationwide, but not in Pittsburgh. Why? Well, it’s a combination of things, including the arrival of new commuters, a functional — and in some cases downright speedy — public transit system, and a cultural acceptance of bus travel. Now, public transit advocates want to know if Pittsburgh holds the secret to getting ridership rates up in other cities, too. (Grist)

The Fort Pitt Museum is celebrating its 50th birthday this week. The museum explores the much older (obviously) Fort Pitt.

You probably already know this: The Fort Pitt Museum, located in historic Point State Park, tells the story of Western Pennsylvania’s essential role during the French & Indian War, the American Revolution, and as the birthplace of Pittsburgh.

But do you know what actually happened inside the gigantic Fort Pitt? Or that Pittsburgh was once part of Virginia during Fort Pitt’s time? Yes, seriously.

We’ve got those stories and many more surprises for you thanks to the experts at the Fort Pitt Museum — let’s go back in time with these 50 facts.

If you’re headed to Open Streets this weekend, keep an eye out for these artful Healthy Ride bikes and learn more about the artists behind them.

Happy trails.