After 50 Years, a North Park Landmark Returns

By Dave Marko

Anyone who visits North Park knows how many amazing sights there are, from the birds of prey, flowering trees, sunsets and sunrises, wildflowers, deer, squirrels . . . and even the occasional bear.

In the not-too-distant future you'll be able to add one more sight that hasn't been available to parkgoers for more than 50 years. 

The historic North Park Observation Tower, located on the property adjacent to the Lodge, will reopen to the public in late summer 2027, thanks to a successful fund-raising drive by the Allegheny County Parks Foundation. 

Built in the late 1930s as a water storage tank, the 102-foot tower quickly became a must-see destination. Climbers making the spiraling 154-step journey to the top were rewarded with a panoramic, bird's-eye view of North Park's 3,100 acres. 

Over time, updates were determined necessary to ensure public safety, leading to the tower's closure in the mid-1970s. Full restoration of the tower was formally recommended in 2002 by the Allegheny Parks Comprehensive Parks Master Plan. Momentum continued into 2020 when the Babcock Charitable Trust committed substantial funds towards the project, honoring the same public value envisioned by Edward V. Babcock, a lumber industrialist and former mayor of Pittsburgh. His leadership helped establish the county's entire park system nearly a century ago. 

"We received incredible support from the local public and private communities. Their generosity has turned this dream into a reality for future generations," said Parks Foundation Executive Director Joey-Linn Ulrich.  

Extensive structural assessments confirmed the Observation Tower is in good condition. Planned improvements include basic repairs, interior and exterior restoration, sandblasting, then repainting the tower in silver to match its original color. The immediate grounds will feature new native plants and shade trees, drainage improvements, a newly redesigned parking lot, a one-acre wildflower meadow, and a concrete plaza with seating. The structure's vintage terrazzo flooring and domed ceiling will be refurbished to match its original appearance. The updated design reflects the Prairie-style vision of Paul Riis, the first director of Allegheny County Parks and architect who designed North Park in the early 1900s. 

"The North Park Observation Tower has stood silently for several generations. Restoring this treasured landmark is about reconnecting our community to the past while offering a door for more memories to be made," said Ulrich. "Our goal is to recognize this area of North Park as a place where visitors can once again dream, connect and experience the sense of awe nature provides." 

Ed Stack, of Marshall Township, remembers climbing to the top as a youngster and is looking forward to taking his grandchildren to the top of the tower when it opens.

"I'm really happy they are reopening the tower. I loved it when my parents took us there long ago and I can't wait to take our grandchildren and see it again for myself."