PITTSBURGH, PA — Schenley Park’s popular Flagstaff Hill will undergo a significant $900,000 restoration and renovation, the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy announced Thursday.
Directly across from Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, the landmark attracts thousands of visitors annually with its panoramic views of Oakland and the city skyline.
“It’s always exciting to begin a new project that we know will provide a positive impact on thousands of park visitors,” Brandon Riley, the conservancy’s capital projects manager, said in a statement.
“Flagstaff Hill is the definition of a Pittsburgh gem. The views alone are second to none and
truly make this park site such a special place for Pittsburghers. We are excited to begin the work to restore this space to its fullest potential.”
To be restored first are the hand-hewn stone entry steps, retaining walls and the panoramic terrace. The project will also address pedestrian barriers by reconstructing the dilapidated main path connecting the east and west entrances, where the conservancy will create new gardens.
The new entry gardens will frame the east and west park entrances using a sustainable native plant palette. In addition, bioswales and green infrastructure, and a reduction in impervious paving will help handle storm water runoff and mitigate erosion issues that have plagued the site.
New park benches will be installed along the connecting pathways and the restored terrace will be repaved with permeable pavers to improve its use as a space for individuals and small groups.
Future phases of the project will include a reinterpretation of the 1930s era azalea garden that used to occupy the hillside. A new “woodland garden” will be planted using native plant species, bringing back the essence of the historic landscape with ecological sensitivity.
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