THE NEW STREETSCAPE WITH SMOOTH PRECAST PAVERS ALONG THE NORTH PERIMETER OF MARKET SQUARE. | PHOTO COURTESY PITTSBURGH DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP

Those who wear spiked heels, use canes, a wheelchair or are pushing a baby stroller will appreciate the new shared streetscape that is being created around Downtown’s Market Square.

The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, which is spearheading the $15 million refresh of the Downtown’s oldest square, unveiled the first look of the north perimeter (the side with The Original Oyster House), where it has replaced the chunky cobblestones with smooth precast pavers. There also are no curbs — the shared street blends the roadway and sidewalks into an even level, adding flexibility to how the area can be used with outdoor dining and events.

“These new street surfaces and walkways are more than design features, they’re the foundation of a Market Square that will be safer, more accessible and more welcoming,” Jeremy Waldrup, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, said in a statement.

The PDP says the project is on schedule and on budget. It is expected to open in time for the NFL Draft coming to town April 23-25, 2026.

The cobblestones, granite curbs and terrazzo are being salvaged and repurposed throughout the project to reinforce its historic character; Market Square dates back to the late 1700s and was last overhauled in 2010.

Construction along the north edge of Market Square is expected to be completed in October or November, and then work moves to the south edge (the side that faces PPG Plaza).

AN AERIAL VIEW OF WHAT THE RENOVATED MARKET SQUARE WILL LOOK LIKE. | PHOTO COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP

The focal point of the project will be the Market Anchor, a pergola-like, semi-circular pavilion that was inspired by the semi-circular building in the market more than 200 years ago. It will have a glass roof in shades of blue and green, reflecting Pittsburgh’s industrial roots and identity as the River City. It will provide Led lighting and electrical and other hookups to support concerts, the farmers markets and other activities.

The disruption caused by the construction has been difficult for some businesses that border Market Square, as reported by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The PDP has provided financial support and promotional initiatives to assist businesses; 13 businesses have received grants through the Event Loss Mitigation Program. A second round has opened for applications and more are planned as construction continues, according to the PDP.

This project is designed by Field Operations, the landscape architecture and urban design firm behind New York City’s High Line and other signature destinations in cities around the world. It also is the firm behind Arts Landing, a total renovation underway of the Eighth Avenue block area in the Cultural District. Arts Landing is expected to have a soft opening by April 2026 and will become the permanent home of the Three Rivers Arts Festival starting in June 2026.