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Project to Preserve Beloved WPA-Era Shelter and Enhance Accessibility, Supported by Public and Private Funding

PITTSBURGH – May 7, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, in partnership with the City of Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Works (DPW), today announced the start of restoration efforts for the historic Valley Refuge Shelter in Riverview Park, a beloved community gathering space on the Northside; the shelter is one of the most popular and widely rented facilities in the City's park system.

Initially built in the late 1930s as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the Valley Refuge Shelter is a prime example of the rustic architectural style typical in park structures of that era. While the shelter remains an essential amenity for Northside residents, time has taken its toll, and significant repairs are necessary to ensure its continued use for future generations.

Key improvements in the $340,000 project include repairs to the shelter's deteriorating masonry, replacement of the aging asphalt shingle roof and flashing, updates to the electrical system, and the restoration of restroom facilities and the drinking fountain. Additionally, improvements to the shelter's flagstone paving will address accessibility challenges, making the space more inclusive and welcoming to all park visitors.

"Riverview Park is a cherished green space, and the Valley Refuge Shelter holds historical and cultural significance for so many in the Northside community," said Catherine Qureshi, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. "Through strategic investment and collaboration, we are ensuring that this landmark remains a vibrant and accessible space for generations to come."

The restoration of the Valley Refuge Shelter is a top priority for the Friends of Riverview Park (FORP) and was identified by local park users as a key project.

"Restoring the Valley Refuge Shelter is about more than saving a structure — it’s about preserving memories, honoring community, and investing in the future of our shared spaces," said Ed Gainey, Mayor, City of Pittsburgh. "For generations, this shelter has been a gathering place — for family reunions, cultural celebrations, and community milestones. I’m proud that through partnership and care, we’re keeping Riverview Park a vibrant, welcoming space where every Pittsburgher belongs."

This project is made possible in part thanks to a $110,000 allocation to the Parks Conservancy from the City of Pittsburgh’s 2024 Capital Improvements Plan Budget via the Parks Tax Trust Fund, private investment, a Keystone Historic Preservation Construction Grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and in-kind support from the City’s Department of Public Works.

"I'm thrilled to see the restoration of the historic Valley Refuge Shelter in Riverview Park moving forward. This project is a testament to what we can accomplish when we come together," said Bobby Wilson, Councilman, City of Pittsburgh. "The partnership between the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, the City of Pittsburgh under Mayor Gainey's leadership, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, private investors, and the Department of Public Works, as well as support from Senator Wayne Fontana and State Representative Emily Kinkead, highlights the strength of collaboration. I'm proud to have allocated over $100,000 in the 2024 Capital Budget for this effort, which will bring much-needed improvements to this cherished community space. Investing in Riverview Park reaffirms my commitment to enhancing this vital city and regional asset for future generations."

The Valley Refuge Shelter is a vital piece of Riverview Park's history and a popular gathering space for the community. Nestled among the park's scenic woodlands, this historic shelter has provided a welcoming refuge for visitors for generations. Today, it continues to serve as a hub of activity, most notably as the home of the annual Reggae in Riverview event.

“We know how important this space is to the community, especially during the summer months,” explained Brandon Riley, Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Director of Community Projects and Engagement. “That’s why we’re working closely with the contractor to make sure any work happening now can be completed by the end of June. If needed, we’ll pause and come back in the fall to wrap up remaining items—our top priority is making sure the shelter stays open and usable for everyone this summer.”

For more information about the restoration of the Valley Refuge Shelter and other park improvement projects, visit www.pittsburghparks.org.

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Alana Wenk                                                                
Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy                                
412.527.0020                                                             
awenk@pittsburghparks.org