Posted on October 1, 2020
2020 Great Public Space: Northeast Fountain in Allegheny Commons Park, City of Pittsburgh (Allegheny County)
Great Places Urban Design & Placemaking 2020
The Northeast Fountain, constructed in the 1860’s, was the first of five ornamental fountains to be built in historic Allegheny Commons Park. With its 50-foot basin and 70-foot central plume, the fountain was a focal point of the Park until it’s decommissioning after WWII, when it became a planting bed. A master plan for renovation of the Park recommended restoring the fountain to its original 1867 design. Completed in 2019, the renovated fountain mirrors the original design, with the exception of a lower plume height and lesser number of jets as energy savings measures. The project also included the addition of benches, a flower garden, trees, pedestrian lighting, and connecting paths. Northeast Fountain is once again a popular gathering place for residents and location for an array of community events. It has also spurred revitalization of the surrounding diverse neighborhoods. This restored community gem is a centerpiece not only of the Park, but also the neighboring community.
