PHILADELPHIA, PA — The City of Philadelphia and Councilmember Jamie Gauthier’s office have announced further progress on the 47th & 48th Street Traffic Safety Projects. The next phase of the project will be presented at an open house meeting slated for February 7 at the St. Francis de Sales School Auditorium.
The upcoming meeting will allow city staff to share their recommendations for both streets to the north of Kingsessing Avenue. They will also discuss the next steps for 47th Street to the south of Kingsessing Avenue, offering residents an opportunity to participate actively in shaping their neighborhoods’ future.
The 47th & 48th Street Traffic Safety Projects emerged from local residents’ concerns about traffic safety in their community. In September 2022, Garden Court neighbors proposed a new layout for 48th Street, known as the 48th Street Greenway concept. Following this proposal, the City announced a repaving project on 48th Street in 2023, sparking discussions on traffic calming solutions with registered community organizations (RCOs) and community leaders.
Last September, the Office of Complete Streets, the Department of Streets, and Councilmember Gauthier held two public open house meetings, attracting over 350 residents. Attendees reviewed two design options for the streets and provided valuable feedback through more than 200 completed exit surveys.
Option #1 suggested minor changes, such as additional speed cushions, stop signs, and painted pedestrian areas at some corners. Option #2 was more comprehensive, including all elements of Option #1, but also proposed converting 47th Street to one-way vehicle traffic and adding parking separated bike lanes on both streets.
Feedback from the September 2023 meetings favored Option #2, with average ratings of 3.7 and 4.03 out of 5 at the first and second meetings, respectively. Option #1 received a consistent rating of 2.8 out of 5 at both meetings.
In response to this feedback, city staff conducted additional traffic analysis throughout the fall and winter, comparing the options for both streets. This spring, the Department of Streets will restripe 48th Street in line with residents’ preferences, while 47th Street is scheduled for repaving in 2025.
The upcoming community meeting on February 7, 2024, presents another opportunity for residents to contribute to these important traffic safety projects. Those unable to attend can still provide their feedback by emailing otis@phila.gov or calling 215-436-9886 before February 21, 2024.
The 47th & 48th Street Traffic Safety Projects aim to underscore the importance of resident involvement in shaping the future of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods. By actively seeking and incorporating locals’ feedback, the City of Philadelphia and Councilmember Gauthier’s office are demonstrating a commitment to creating safer, more livable streets. The long-term implications of these projects could extend beyond improved traffic safety, potentially enhancing local quality of life, fostering stronger community ties, and boosting property values in the area.
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