Market Square Renovation

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Executed as part of a framework of projects with the Downtown Pittsburgh Partnership, the Market Square Renovation balances historic preservation with contemporary civic utility. The project’s primary objective was to revitalize the historic square into a highly accessible, pedestrian-first district by optimizing circulation, limiting vehicular traffic, and modernizing infrastructure to support large-scale public events. Working alongside project lead and landscape architect Field Operations, Larson Design Group, Tillotson Design Associates, and Novum Structures, JBC Landscape Architects provided the technical design aspects required to sustain this high-traffic urban core.

To honor the site's rich heritage, the design team worked around existing features designated for preservation, including historic cobblestones and mature canopy trees, while carefully coordinating within a dense network of underground utilities. JBC conducted a thorough forensic investigation of the failing legacy irrigation infrastructure to design a robust system extension and upgrade that optimizes water delivery. To support long-term vegetative health amidst intensive city use, JBC provided specialized soil designs tailored for the new perimeter trees and plantings, paired with custom soil amendments to rejuvenate and protect the existing trees at the center of the square.

By seamlessly integrating modern irrigation design with sensitive environmental preservation, JBC Landscape Architects helped ensure Market Square is a durable, vibrant, and accessible anchor for downtown Pittsburgh.

 

Collaborators 

  • Field Operations – Landscape Architect and Project Lead

  • Larson Design Group – Civil Engineers

  • Tillotson Design Associates – Lighting

  • Novum Structures – Shade Structure

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