Market Square Modernization

As one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic and historic public spaces, Market Square is the bustling heart of Downtown.

This comprehensive modernization project includes infrastructure improvements, upgraded pedestrian pathways, enhanced lighting, expanded public seating areas and a new central pavilion structure to transform Market Square into a more vibrant, accessible, and connected urban center that better serves our dynamic communities and the region as a whole.

About

Market Square, which welcomed over 3.1 million people in 2024, is a cornerstone of the Downtown revitalization plan announced by the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, Allegheny County, City of Pittsburgh, and Urban Redevelopment Authority, as well as Governor Shapiro’s 10-year $600 million plan to transform Downtown Pittsburgh.

Working with the renowned, New York-based landscape architecture firm Field Operations, the PDP is overseeing the design and construction of Market Square, incorporating it as a key component of the recently announced 2025-2028 Strategic Vision for Downtown. These investments will enable activations and programming that play a part in reimagining Downtown for the future, by welcoming more visitors and providing support for the small businesses that drive Downtown’s economy.

Key Design Features

Improved Quality and Experience – By incorporating local materials and reflecting the city’s character, the renovation will create a space that is both authentic and welcoming by removing barriers, adding greenery, improving lighting, reducing vehicular access, and expanding outdoor dining and programmable spaces to create a pedestrian-oriented experience.

The Market Anchor – More than just an architectural centerpiece, the open-air pavilion will play a vital role in the daily life and activation of the Square. Equipped with power and sound infrastructure, it will support a variety of events, from farmers’ markets to citywide festivals, activating the Square year-round.

Downtown Connectivity – Market Street will be reimagined as a curb-less, pedestrian-priority corridor to extend the Square’s energy along the Market Street axis and enhance existing connections to PPG Plaza and the future Mon Wharf, while strengthening access to the 6th Street corridor and the Cultural District.

Project Timeline

During construction, access to Market Square will be carefully managed to minimize disruptions for businesses and the public. All businesses will remain open. Construction is expected to begin on April 1, 2025, and opening is slated for April 2026.

Project Funders

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
BNY
Buchanan Ingersoll Rooney
Dollar Bank
Federated Hermes
Highmark
K&L Gates
Pitt Ohio
PNC
PPG
Reed Smith
Jewish Healthcare Foundation

Project Updates

Market Square Modernization Approval Marks Key Step in Downtown Pittsburgh’s TransformationFebruary 11, 2025
Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership Unveils Strategic Vision for Revitalizing Downtown PittsburghJanuary 22, 2025