HUD helps turn parking lot into decorative park

It may be almost winter, but Schenley Plaza is blossoming.

A recently received $280,000… It may be almost winter, but Schenley Plaza is blossoming.

A recently received $280,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is going to provide enhancements to the in-construction addition across from the Cathedral of Learning.

The Allegheny County Redevelopment Authority announced the grant Nov. 9.

“With this grant, we’ll be able to add nearly two dozen park benches and decorative pavers, which will enhance the plaza’s final design,” Dan Onorato, Allegheny County chief executive, said in a press release.

Allegheny County applied for the grant on behalf of the project.

HUD’s Economic Development Initiative funds are provided on a competitive basis to finance community revitalization projects and enhance economic development.

According to its Web site, “HUD wants to strengthen communities, and economic development is an important part of that effort.”

Pitt is the project manager for the plaza’s development, according to John Wilds, Pitt’s assistant vice chancellor for community and governmental relations.

“Our job is to make sure work gets done on time and within budget,” he said.

The park is on track to be completed in Spring 2006. Still to come are food kiosks, a fountain, an area for musical performances and a carousel.

Funding for the project is a collaborative effort consisting of many different organizations, including the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, the city of Pittsburgh, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Allegheny County, the Heinz Foundation, the R.K. Mellon Foundation, the Oakland Investment Committee and various other Oakland community leaders.

“This project is designed to reclaim the land that stood as an asphalt parking lot and return it to a vibrant public space for the enjoyment of the greater regional community,” Meg Cheever, president of the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, said in a press release. “We are delighted to have the participation of Allegheny County and HUD in this important project for Oakland.”