Market Square is Ready For Its Close Up
After a $15 million makeover, the public space in the heart of Downtown is safer, more accessible and ready to welcome NFL Draft crowds.
PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER
You won’t be able to stop circling the new Market Square.
On April 22, after a two-year, $15 million makeover, city officials and business owners cut the ribbon on Downtown living room — just in time for the NFL Draft.
PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER
Redesigned by landscape architecture firm Field Operations, the public space now has an open-air, steel-and-glass pavilion that provides shade and shelter. New furnishings and security cameras were also added.
A shared, curbless streetscape slows vehicle traffic and prioritizes pedestrians, while smooth precast pavers improve accessibility and upgraded lighting enhances safety and supports evening activities.
The black-and-gold gathering place is now greener, too.
PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER
In the middle of a concrete jungle, the tree canopy has been expanded by 15 percent with the planting of 33 Redbud trees. Expanded tree pits and an upgraded water infrastructure and stormwater management system will support healthier, long-term growth.
“Market Square brings residents and visitors alike to the heart of Downtown to celebrate our city and support our small businesses,” Mayor Corey O’Connor says. “This project isn’t just for the Draft, it’s about carrying Market Square’s legacy forward and modernizing it for the next generation of Pittsburghers.”
PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER
Market Square welcomes three million visitors annually at more than 250 events and supports 49 businesses. The project is a key initiative within Pennsylvania’s $660 million revitalization plan for Downtown. Last week, Pittsburgh unveiled Arts Landing, a four-acre civic space owned by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER
After speaking at the Market Square dedication ceremony, dignitaries including Gov. Josh Shapiro, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato and Jeremy Waldrup, CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (and Pittsburgh Magazine’s Pittsburgher of the Year), dined at The Original Oyster House.
The landmark eatery has been operating in Market Square for more than 155 years.
PHOTO BY KRISTY GRAVER
To prepare for a massive influx of visitors, Owner Jen Grippo stocked up on hundreds of cases of beer and rolled out a condensed menu of Oyster House favorites.
During the ceremony, Grippo thanked her fellow business owners and the Mascaro Construction crew that she now considers part of her family. In total, 216 skilled tradespeople representing nine trade unions brought the Square back to life.
