Staff Editorial

The planned renovation of Market Square is a positive sign that the city is moving toward a more walkable and accessible city.

Market Square, a beloved spot in Downtown Pittsburgh, is getting much needed major improvements with the NFL Draft coming to town. Pittsburgh is set to host the NFL’s annual draft in 2026. With this comes large renovations to the city, including improvements to the beloved Market Square.

This is going to highly benefit the Pittsburgh community, and especially school students. By revamping a space to make it more pedestrian friendly, more locals will be able to relax in this spot. Having Point Park University and Duquesne University in such a proximity to Market Square is great because it provides unique opportunities to students that others don’t get. When Market Square becomes revamped, it will provide a new community and area for locals.

The City of Pittsburgh proposed plans to revitalize Market Square, Point State Park and Liberty Avenue in preparation for the NFL Draft. Those responsible for Manhattan’s High Line are being brought in to implement the new designs in Pittsburgh before the draft.

The plan includes limiting the amount of vehicles coming through Market Square. This will be done by making half of the square a pedestrian only area, rather than allowing cars to drive around the square, which they are currently permitted to do.

According to the plan, traffic would be allowed on the north end of the square — where the Original Oyster House sits, but closed off to the south side — closest to PPG Place. The fewer cars and trucks within Market Square the better as there will be more space for outdoor dining and activities.

The proximity of Market Square to Duquesne will provide students on campus many fun and new opportunities. Students will now have the opportunity to sit outside and grab a bite to eat at restaurants, take photos with new backgrounds and go for a walk in the city in what feels like a new area, but is only a few blocks away.

Not only does the City of Pittsburgh plan to make Market Square a more enjoyable environment for its people, they plan to make it more accommodating as well. Architects plan to remove the cobblestone roads currently in place in Market Square, and replace it with smooth pavement, making it easier for all pedestrians to get around. This change will allow for Market Square to fall within ADA compliance. Creating a more adaptive urban design is crucial when redesigning city aspects, as traditional materials are often no longer accessible for everyone today. In addition to making the area ADA compliant, there will be a new plan for garbage removal and better irrigation for trees.

The city would benefit from more projects like this that make the city more livable for everyone.