Landscape Changes to The Mall
In the heart of campus, the large, open quadrangle from Baker and Doherty Halls to Hamerschlag Hall, known as the Mall, has gone through many evolutions since its original design in the early 1900s. The university is now preparing for the Mall’s next phase, with revitalization planning underway aiming to increase the tree canopy, improve mobility and accessibility, align landscaping with underground utilities, and enhance aesthetics and environmental harmony.
Summer 2026 Tree Removal
Originally, the Mall was lined on both sides with trees, but over the years many have been removed due to declining health, structural instability, storm damage and campus updates. Currently, only eight sycamores and one London plane tree remain alongside Baker Hall, and unfortunately they too have now reached the end of their natural life. As the first step in the longer-term Mall revitalization plan, the ailing trees will be removed for public safety and to prepare the space for future landscape improvements.
The nine remaining trees are scheduled to be removed between July 6-26. Each day that it is safe to conduct activities, work will occur between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., and community members should anticipate noise and nearby walkway closures during the removal process. We anticipate all tree removal, stump grinding, soil work and sodding to be completed by July 26.
Trees that will be removed
Location of protective fencing during project
The trees will be examined after removal, and any remaining healthy portions of the wood will be saved for future reuse — the university, working with Urban Tree, has done similar reuse projects with salvaged wood at Fifth and Clyde Residence Hall and the Highmark Center for Health, Wellness and Athletics. The area will then be planted with turf grass in preparation for the next phase of the Mall.
What’s Next for the Mall?
Comprehensive recommendations for Mall revitalization, with input from a variety of CMU departments and areas, have been drafted and are entering the next phase of evaluation and planning. More details about the Mall’s revitalization plans will be shared with the Carnegie Mellon community as they develop.
What should I do if my office or class is near the work area?
Affected individuals are encouraged to talk with their supervisor, department head or faculty contact about any alternative arrangements needed for their work or class location. Updates will be shared directly with colleges and departments that utilize office and classroom space in Baker and Porter Halls to assist in planning for any disruption.
How long do these types of trees normally live?
Sycamore and London plane trees can live for several hundred years in optimal, wide-open environments, but their life expectancy drops to 30-60 years in denser urban areas due to soil compaction, air pollution and root damage from construction.
Will new trees be planted to replace those being removed?
Not immediately. Long-term revitalization plans for the Mall include increasing the tree canopy and enhancing the natural landscape. More details will be shared with the campus community as plans are finalized.
Learn more about CMU’s sustainable landscapes and tree care plan [pdf]
View how the Mall design has evolved over time
Team Members
Facilities Management Services is working in conjunction with the following organizations to complete the project:
Palombo Landscaping, Pittsburgh PA - Landscaping Contractor