13 June 2011
Mellon Square Phase 1 Groundbreaking
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

In 2008, Heritage Landscapes completed the research component of the Mellon Square Preservation, Interpretation & Management Plan, a project of the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. Multiple repositories were consulted in research of historic documents pertaining to Mellon Square including the Heinz History Center, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pittsburgh, and the project archives of Environmental Planning & Design, formerly Simonds & Simonds, the landscape architects of Mellon Square. Hundreds of documents were uncovered including photographs, slides, project correspondence, sketches, newspaper articles, and construction drawings and specifications. This rich documentary basis was compiled chronologically into a series of binders to capture the history of this modern masterpiece. Analysis of the information has informed the existing conditions assessment and treatment recommendations of the plan. Leading a multi-disciplinary team, Heritage Landscapes is working to ensure this urban masterwork is sustained into the future.

Today, Heritage Landscapes is leading the First Phase of a project to restore Mellon Square, which broke ground in June 2011.  Mellon Square, a central project of Pittsburgh’s fabled Renaissance I, was the national’s first modern plaza with a garage underneath, and a precursor of green roofs. Opened in 1955, it included a 1.37 acre park, street level retail stores, and underground parking for 1,000 cars. The project cost including land acquisition was $8 million - $85 million in 2010 dollars. 

The First Phase of a project to restore historic Mellon Square is now underway and will be completed in Spring 2012. It includes restoration of the Cascade Fountain, staircases, lighting, and plantings. New  elements are a planted canopy above the storefronts, and a new terrace overlooking Smithfield Street. Total restoration project cost is $11 million including $4 million for a permanent maintenance and management fund. 

Rendering of the fully restored Mellon Square, from the groundbreaking ceremony program.
 

Mellon Square, 13 June 2011.

Heritage Landscapes Principal Patricia M. O'Donnell in Mellon Square.

Groundbreaking ceremony.