The Allegheny County Parks Foundation is excited to announce that the first phase of restoration of a beloved North Park attraction – the Observation Tower – is beginning. Once complete, this iconic site will reopen to the public after 30 years and offer an expansive view of the rolling North Hills.
Designed in 1936 as a water storage tank, this popular attraction gave visitors who climbed its distinctive, 154-step spiral staircase a 360-degree view of the expansive park surroundings. The 102-foot structure features vintage terrazzo flooring and a domed ceiling. Over time, disrepair led to the tower’s closing to the public.
Restoration of the tower was recommended in the 2002 Allegheny County Parks Comprehensive Master Plan. The project took a major step forward when the Babcock Charitable Trust generously committed $400,000 to the Allegheny County Parks Foundation toward the restoration. Total project budget for design and construction is approximately $1 million. The Parks Foundation is undertaking this project in partnership with Allegheny County.
The structure of the tower has undergone an extensive structural assessment by Buchart Horn Architects to assure that repairs will make public access safe. Renovations will include interior and exterior sandblasting and repainting, safety improvements of handrails and terrazzo repairs on the original observation deck floor.
A final review of plans and costs is expected this fall. Once all funding is committed, the Parks Department will move forward to construction bid, with renovation to be underway in 2023. Stay tuned for more exciting details!
