Pew has turned its attention in recent years to improving Philadelphia’s prominent civic spaces to help attract tourists and to make the city more enjoyable, safe and convenient for residents.
A major focus has been the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the tree-lined boulevard that connects City Hall to the vast greenery of Fairmount Park, and home to many of the region’s most important cultural institutions. Pew led efforts to re-landscape Logan Square and install new street and building façade lighting along the length of this important boulevard. Recently, however, we recognized that the Parkway needs to be more attractive, convenient and friendly for pedestrians, bicyclists and other public use to reach its full potential. Thus, we joined with a consortium of partners to support extensive landscape and streetscape improvements between John F. Kennedy Plaza and Eakins Oval.
Pew was also a catalyst in the $300 million redevelopment of Philadelphia’s Independence Mall in the heart of its historic district. Other civic initiatives include the revitalization of important public spaces such as Franklin Square and the Fairmount Water Works, as well as its adjacent gardens and cliff paths. In addition, Pew has provided support for decorative façade lighting along the Avenue of the Arts.
Photo courtesy of the National Constitution Center (Scott Frances LTD).
May 07, 2007 - SoundAboutPhilly's audio tours come with dynamic mapping, engaging photography and narratives by real Philadelphians.
Read More
Oct 23, 2006 - Philadelphia is the first city to create free podcast tours on a grand scale, essentially turning the city into an open-air museum and giving tourists customizable “choose-your-own-adventure” ways to explore its history and neighborhoods.
Nov 02, 2004 - A Fall 2004 Trust briefing on an outdoor lighting initiative in Philadelphia.
Stay updated with Pew News Now! We invite you to sign up to receive our weekly e-mail newsletter.
