Market Square debuts $15 million makeover
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
An open air pavilion anchors the new Market Square. Photo: Courtesy of Darin DiNapoli / Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership
NFL draft crowds will be among the first to see Market Square's $15 million renovation after a year of work.
Why it matters: The city is fast-tracking new projects to draw people back Downtown after pandemic-era hits to foot traffic, while teeing up Pittsburgh for a busy tourism year.
The latest: Civic leaders and business owners marked the opening on Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting.
Zoom in: A new semicircular steel-and-glass pavilion, outfitted with lighting, anchors the space and makes the square more adaptable for markets, holiday celebrations and other events.
- The southern portion of Market Square (the Primanti's side) is now pedestrian-only; officials can close the northern section to vehicle traffic as needed.
- Other upgrades include 110% more outdoor seating, expanded electrical capacity, improved irrigation for additional trees, a new brick streetscape replacing the old bumpy road, and a network of security cameras officials said would bolster public safety at the space.
The big picture: Construction started last April, led by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership.
- Funded by state, business, and philanthropic contributions, Market Square's renovation is one of three projects in Gov. Josh Shapiro's 10-year, $600 million plan to revitalize Downtown set to open in time for the NFL draft — alongside Arts Landing and Point State Park improvements.
What they're saying: "Market Square represents a major milestone in Downtown's progress, one piece of a much larger strategy," said Jeremy Waldrup, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership CEO.
What's next: The space will serve as a draft hub through Saturday as part of the Picksburgh installations, with live music, a pop-up bar tent, blacksmith demonstrations from Rivers of Steel, games and giveaways.
- Play mini golf at PPG Plaza nearby for $5 per game.