Keep Market Square vibrant
Downtown Pittsburgh’s Market Square has lived up to its name thanks to investment by local leaders a decade ago. In non-pandemic times, it’s a site for farmers markets and busking musicians and street art and lunch outings, a lively Europeanstyle city center that serves as a bright spot for the city.
But that status could change. Three eateries, Molinaro Ristorante and Bar, Wolfies Pub and the former Pizzuvio shuttered in January. More recently, Bruegger’s Bagels and NOLA on the Square have closed due to COVID-19. These latter spaces share an owner, Nick Nicholas, who told the Post-Gazette that he intends to rent one of the spaces to Chase Bank, which would be the second bank to enter the square, after Bank of America.
This would be a blow to Market Square’s ethos and atmosphere.
Mr. Nicholas has had interest from many dining franchises but has said that Chase is his first choice due to its strong credit and ability to sign a long lease. Leaning toward security and stability during the pandemic is certainly understandable, but it is not community-minded.
Market Square is a Pittsburgh gem, a natural congregating point for residents and tourists alike. A second bank alone will not destroy this ethos, but it chips away at the character of the plaza. Allowing Chase Bank to rent space would represent another step toward homogenizing a unique facet of the city. Downtown leaders and other Market Square retailers have also warned against the move, citing plentiful dining options, outdoor seating and specialty retail as primary draws for the area.
Vacant restaurants are likely to see new culinary tenants in the future. And Mr. Nicholas intends to find at least one restaurant or bar to take over the space at NOLA. He should reconsider renting to Chase Bank, especially if there are other interested parties.
COVID-19 has displaced thousands of workers from Downtown office space who now work from home. It’s too soon to know when or if workers will return and what impact that will have on Downtown restaurants and retail.
It’s also too soon to give up on Market Square.