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Work to transform part of Downtown Pittsburgh is taking a big step forward.<\/p>\n
People were welcomed to Market Square on Saturday for a block party marking the second phase of the square\u2019s modernization project. It was one of the first chances the public has been given to see the new design.<\/p>\n
The project is part of the city\u2019s preparations to host the 2026 NFL Draft.<\/p>\n
PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Downtown Pittsburgh\u2019s Market Square to receive upgrades as part of $600M investment<\/a><\/p>\n Work on the next major phase<\/a> is set to begin Monday, shifting construction from the north side of the square to the south.<\/p>\n PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Leaders sign beam to celebrate Market Square modernization halfway point<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cWe want folks to remember these businesses are still open,\u201d Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership President and CEO Jeremy Waldrup said. \u201cWe\u2019re going to be celebrating the holidays in here with some Yinzmas. We\u2019re encouraging folks to get down here, enjoy some delicious foods, some drinks and some family fun.\u201d<\/p>\n Last year, around 3 million people came into Market Square, helping support more than 35 local businesses.<\/p>\n PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Market Square Modernization: First look at new shared streetscape, other updates on project<\/a><\/p>\n The construction has had its drawbacks. Some Market Square business owners reported that work in the area had negatively affected foot traffic to their establishments.<\/p>\n PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Market Square business owners say they\u2019re struggling during major renovations ahead of NFL Draft<\/a><\/p>\n Sasha Machel, owner of Medi\u2019s on Market, said her business\u2019s foot traffic has \u201cnot been as robust\u201d during the construction.<\/p>\n However, she said of the new Market Square design, \u201cI\u2019m excited, it\u2019s a nice revamp, it looks a lot bigger, open space, a lot cleaner.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHonestly, when the construction was going on, I was kind of nervous, but now, like, since my side\u2019s complete, I cannot wait for it to be fully completed,\u201d ClarkFit Boxing and Fitness owner C.C. Clark said. \u201cIt\u2019s going to be so great for the city.\u201d<\/p>\n Regarding the square\u2019s new design, Clark said, \u201cI absolutely love it. It\u2019s impeccable. I think it\u2019s the best thing, and I think Market Square really needed the upgrades and update.\u201d<\/p>\n Download the FREE WPXI News app<\/a> for breaking news alerts.<\/p>\n Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook<\/a> and Twitter<\/a>. | Watch WPXI NOW<\/a><\/p>\n