In October of 1940, Mayor Cornelius Scully announced plans to build a state park on the land near the point, an area largely occupied by the warehouses and freight yards of the Pennsylvania Railroad, and the downtown ramps of the old Point and Manchester Bridges. This effort was just part of a grand design, known as "The Moses Plan", aimed at transforming the entire face of the city of Pittsburgh. In addition to new bridges, skyscrapers, and roadways to link the city and the suburbs, Point State Park was to be one of the major ingredients in the beautification of the city.

After 10 years of planning, the first demolition of a building took place in May of 1950. Governor Duff was on hand to give the signal for the wrecking ball to begin the razing of a 103 year old abandoned home. From that point on, work began at a rapid pace. By 1954 most of the buildings occupying the park land were removed and land development proceeding.

  
Preliminary work proceeds on the Allegheny River bank in 1954.

Retaining walls were built at the river's edge. Preliminary grading and seeding took place. After this initial work, much of the development was halted after 1956 in order to move ahead with the construction of the Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne Bridges and the cross ramps connecting the spans. Once these structures were in place, work resumed on the park.

By 1970, most of the parks features were in place, with the exception of the tip of the point, were the old bridge spans and cross ramps were still in place. The bridges were dismantled later that year and the final phases of park development took place. On August 30, 1974, Mayor Pete Flaherty dedicated the signature fountain at the confluence of the three rivers, signalling the end of the 34-year effort to build Point State Park.

Click on images for larger photos.

  
The initial clearing was completed in 1956, picked up again in the mid-1960s,
after the Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne Bridges were in place.

  
Constructing the embankment at the Point (left) and a sign touting the historical significance
of the Point State Park project. It is "for the education and enjoyment of all the people."

Point State Park in 1970, when the downtown side was completed. It would take three more years
to complete the entire project. Note Three Rivers Stadium, under construction in the distance.
The old Point bridges are still in use. The new Fort Duquesne Bridge is nearing completion.

Another picture from later in 1970. Demolition of the old Manchester and Point bridges has begun.
Soon, the tip of the Point will be transformed into one of Pittsburgh's signature attractions.