MCCANDLESS, Pa. — A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Monday to mark the official start of restoration work on the historic North Park Observation Tower.
The project will preserve the iconic structure, improve accessibility and safety, restore architectural features and enhance the surrounding landscape to restore public access to panoramic views of North Park.
Restoration of the tower was formally recommended in the 2002 Allegheny County Parks Comprehensive Master Plan because of its historic and cultural significance. The groundbreaking follows years of planning, fundraising and community support to prepare the landmark for public reopening.
Built in 1937, the 102-foot tower originally served as a water storage tank before becoming a popular park destination.
Located at one of the highest elevations in Allegheny County, the structure features a 154-step spiral staircase, vintage terrazzo flooring and a domed ceiling. Visitors who climb the staircase are rewarded with panoramic views of the landscape, with downtown Pittsburgh visible in the distance.
Funding for the restoration gained momentum in 2020 when the Babcock Charitable Trust committed $400,000 to the effort. The contribution recognized the vision of E.V. Babcock, whose leadership helped establish North Park and the county park system. To complete the work, the Allegheny County Parks Foundation launched a $20,000 public fundraising campaign for the project’s final restoration phase.
Structural assessments confirmed that the tower remains in good overall condition.
The project also encompasses enhancements to the surrounding landscape in McCandless. Work on the grounds will feature a one-acre wildflower meadow, native plantings, shade trees and drainage improvements, along with a newly designed parking lot, accessible pathways, interpretive signage and a concrete plaza with seating.
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