The reconstruction of Market Square project received a Gold Award in the Public Infrastructure Projects category.

“This is a public square renovation in the heart of downtownPittsburghthat has spurred greater use and more flexible use of the space,” the jury said. “The square was made more pedestrian friendly, and in addition to use by individuals, the renovation has catalyzed new restaurants to open facing the square.”

Mayor Ravenstahl is turning to developers, building owners and other stakeholders in a bid to attract more retail Downtown. The Mayor convened the Downtown Retail Working Group within the past few weeks and charged it with finding ways to keep existing retailers in place while enticing others to move into the Golden Triangle. The goal is not to try to re-create the grandiose Fifth and Forbes plans floated by former Mayor Tom Murphy, but to appeal to retailers that might be a “good fit” for Downtown.

7. Pittsburgh Market Square, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Market Square is a unique space in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh with a storied past. It’s been the central square in Pittsburgh’s downtown since the 18th century, and was the site of a public space known as the Diamond, or Diamond Square, that was demolished in 1962.

The refurbished 68,000 square foot plaza combines the four quadrants of the old square into one large pedestrian-only center island.