ABOUT THE PROJECT
For generations, fountains were a defining feature of Allegheny Commons Park, drawing people together to enjoy the sights and sounds of flowing water. However, as city budgets tightened, all four ornamental fountains in Pittsburgh’s oldest park were lost. Recognizing their historical and cultural significance, the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, in partnership with the Allegheny Commons Initiative and the Northside Leadership Conference, led the effort to restore one of these lost treasures: the Patricia Rooney Memorial Fountain.
Located at the corner of Cedar and North Avenues—facing Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh King K-8 School, and adjacent to the Historic Deutschtown neighborhood—the restored fountain serves as a gateway to the park and a symbol of revitalization for the Northside community. The project, part of a long-term master plan to restore Allegheny Commons, included the reconstruction of the historic fountain, new gardens, pathways, signage, benches, lighting, and other amenities.
Originally known as the Northeast Fountain, this landmark once stood as a focal point of the park before it was decommissioned after World War II and converted into a planting bed. The restoration returned it to its original 1868 design: a 50-foot circular basin with a cast stone rim, a central Grecian vase with a principal jet, and 16 smaller jets cascading into the basin. Surrounding ornamental planting beds, a revitalized tree canopy and improved landscaping ensure the fountain remains a vibrant and welcoming space for generations to come.
Thanks to a $2.5 million restoration effort, the Patricia Rooney Memorial Fountain was brought back to life in spring 2019, honoring the park’s rich history while inspiring future community connections.
