Tribune-Review: Three Downtown buildings targeted for $6 million restoration

The Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation and Mayor Luke Ravenstahl today announced the release of $6 million in state and local funding for the restoration of buildings in the Market Square area Downtown.

The money will be used for complete restoration of the foundation-owned Thompson Building on Market Street and two buildings on Wood Street recently purchased by the organization.

Foundation President Arthur Ziegler said Thompson Building investors plan a high-quality restaurant and bar featuring exotic liquors with a lounge and meeting rooms on the upper two floors. The business will open in about a year, he said.

A longtime stationery store and women's boutique will remain at their current locations in the Wood Street buildings. Ziegler said the foundation is partnering with Piont Park University to offer a mix of student housing and private apartments on the upper floor.

Ravenstahl said the city would continue to promote historic preservation as an economic development tool in the Golden Triangle.

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