Philadelphia’s Center City District (CCD) is making downtown more pedestrian-friendly with its Open Streets program. This initiative temporarily closes certain streets to traffic, allowing people to walk, shop, and dine in a car-free environment.
How Open Streets Works
The program creates pedestrian-only zones by closing sections of streets, particularly in Rittenhouse Row. Retailers in these areas can expand their businesses outdoors and offer special promotions to attract visitors.
The street closures begin at 8 AM, with the program running from 10 AM to 5 PM. By 6 PM, the streets reopen to traffic.
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When It Happens
The CCD has hosted Open Streets events in September and December. In September, the program ran for four consecutive Sundays, while in December, it operated on two Sundays.
Where It Happens
The program has closed sections of 18th Street, from Locust to Chestnut, and Walnut Street, from 15th to 19th, turning these busy areas into vibrant pedestrian spaces.
Open Streets aims to encourage people to think differently about how streets are used. By prioritizing people over cars, the program creates a welcoming space for shopping, strolling, and socializing.
This initiative not only enhances the downtown experience but also highlights the potential for reimagining urban spaces. With its growing popularity, Open Streets is helping make Philadelphia’s Center City more inviting and community-focused.
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