MELLON SQUARE (KDKA) – By the looks of it, Mellon Square is definitely under construction. They broke ground on the renovations last summer and phase one is just about to be completed.

The $7 million plan is in the works is to restore the park to its former glory to and the renovation of the terrace will be the first to open to the public.

“This was previously an area that was covered in plantings and now it’s going to be open to the public as an event space and a performance space,” Jim Griffin said.

Several beds are being prepared for grass, new trees and plants that will enhance the terrace. However, it will leave it open for people to be able to use and enjoy.

“We’ll get the plantings started within the next couple of days and we’ll have the public in here by Veteran’s Day, Light Up Night for sure,” Griffin said.

Phase two is the tricky part.

That includes pretty much the rest of the park. The engineering and designing of the waterfall near the steps and fountain that will sit in the middle of the Mellon Square is nearing the end.

However, construction of the intricate addition will take some time.

“You have to remember they’re sitting on top of a six-floor parking garage. So, we’re basically building a fountain on top of a roof, if you can imagine that,” Griffin said.

With the timeline moving very aggressively, it won’t be much longer until the renovations pay off.

“It was a little rundown, it needed some work. But, hopefully it will be just as good as it was years and years ago,” Bob Kelly said.

“People are ready for this park to reemerge and we’re going to make it happen,”Griffin said.

While the terrace is expected to open in just a few weeks, Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy hopes to have the rest of the park open by next summer.

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