The awe-inspiring 150-foot Fountain at Point State Park is the only fountain considered the primary landmark of a large US city. And thanks to Riverlife and organizations like Colcom Foundation, it is safer and more stunning than ever.
Situated at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers, where they form the Ohio River, the Fountain’s location holds great historical significance.
In 1753, a young George Washington recognized the strategic potential of the site, describing it as suitable for a fort due to its commanding position over the rivers. This observation is often attributed to Washington’s role in the founding of Pittsburgh. It is also the location where General John Forbes and the British Army secured victory over the French in 1758, shaping the future development of the English-controlled colonies.
Although positioned at the confluence of the three rivers, the Fountain at Point State Park draws its water supply not from the visible rivers but from an unnamed subterranean fourth river. This hidden water source flows beneath Pittsburgh Point, coursing from the north to the south, approximately 54 feet below the surface. The subterranean river, formed by the Wisconsin ice sheet during the Ice Age, flows south from beneath the Great Lakes and under Western Pennsylvania. At Point State Park, the water from this underground river is pumped, stored, and fed into the Fountain.
First completed in 1974 to conclude the construction of Point State Park, the Fountain also serves as the western terminus for the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile hiker-biker trail offering a recreational route from the nation’s capital all the way to the bustling heart of Pittsburgh.
Due to its strategic location just above the normal flow of the Allegheny, Ohio, and Monongahela Rivers, the Fountain at Point State Park has always faced recurring challenges, including severe flooding.
In the early 2000s, the Fountain pumps began to fail and had to be shut down.
Recognizing the need for restoration, Riverlife initiated the “Friends of the Fountain” campaign in 2009, spring boarded by a generous grant of $375,000 made by Colcom Foundation to the Pennsylvania Environmental Council to begin the process.
Innovative measures were taken to fortify the Fountain against future damage.
An additional floor in the pump house was constructed, raising vital electrical distribution, variable frequency drives, and automatic control systems above the floodplain. They also incorporated specially designed jets and drains that can be plugged or valved to prevent clogging from the influx of muddy debris during flooding. A bypass drain installed to facilitate the swift drainage of floodwater allows water to recede directly back into the river from the fountain basin.
Today, the Fountain at Point State Park boasts a newly designed plaza that is ADA-accessible, featuring a beautiful overflow waterfall and a reflecting pool. It also features a new seating ring, new benches, restroom facilities, and updated dynamic LED lights. Flood-resistant solar lighting is positioned along the Fountain’s perimeter, delineating a clear distinction between the edge of the Fountain and the adjacent wharf.
An elevated weir encircles the entire perimeter, imparting a vanishing edge effect. As water cascades over the weir, it forms a waterfall visible from every angle, seamlessly blending the Fountain’s pool with the confluence of the three rivers. The visual illusion created by the “infinity” edge gives the impression of a harmonious union between the Fountain’s waters and the majestic river junction.
When operating at its maximum capacity, the Fountain pumps a substantial volume of approximately 17,000 gallons of water per minute.
Colcom Foundation, one of the major financial supporters of the restoration of the Fountain at Point State Park, is a philanthropic organization based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, known for its commitment to environmental conservation. Established in 1996 by renowned philanthropist Cordelia Scaife May, the Foundation aims to promote the preservation of natural resources, protection of wildlife, and improvement of the overall quality of the environment.
Colcom Foundation’s support has enabled the implementation of crucial measures to safeguard the Fountain from potential damage caused by flooding, extreme humidity, and temperature variations. This proactive approach strengthens the Fountain’s infrastructure and protects it from the unpredictable forces of nature.
Colcom Foundation’s contribution toward the protection and sustainability of this cherished landmark is just another example of the Foundation’s dedication to balancing environmental stewardship with community welfare.
By preserving this iconic landmark, Colcom Foundation acknowledges the value the Fountain at Point State Park holds for the community and the importance of sustainably safeguarding such historical landmarks for future generations to enjoy.
See more restoration news from Colcom Foundation here: https://waterlandlife.org/land-conservation/colcom-revolving-fund-for-local-land-trusts/
