PHILADELPHIA, PA — Philadelphia is stepping boldly into the future while honoring its historic past, recently breaking ground on the Market Street Old City Improvement Project. A true game-changer, this initiative aims to transform one of the city’s most iconic corridors, just in time for the nation’s Semiquincentennial celebrations in 2026.
This $16 million project will roll out a host of safety and accessibility upgrades on Market Street, spanning 6th to 2nd Streets. Currently a hotspot on Philadelphia’s Vision Zero High Injury Network—a staggering 12 percent of city streets responsible for 80 percent of severe traffic casualties—this crucial corridor is getting a much-needed overhaul to make it safer, more navigable, and ready to welcome millions of visitors.
The revamped design includes reducing travel lanes to one in each direction, installing dedicated turning lanes at intersections, and prioritizing pedestrians through shortened crossing distances and revamped signal timing. There’s more—ADA-compliant ramps, sidewalk-level bike lanes shielded by parking, and expanded bus stop bump outs are all part of this blueprint. And the jewel in this infrastructure upgrade? A curbless pedestrian plaza at 2nd Street, designed to seamlessly host foot traffic in the heart of Old City.
Deputy Managing Director for Transportation and Infrastructure Mike Carroll emphasized the project’s critical role in advancing Vision Zero goals, stating, “These safety improvements, including the new pedestrian plaza, will create a welcoming public space for residents and a destination for 2026 tourists as well as a hub of activity for years to come.”
This effort is not just about safety—it’s about creating a vibrant, multimodal space that serves pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, and public transit users alike. These upgrades align perfectly with Old City District’s Vision2026 report, a roadmap for preserving the neighborhood’s rich history while preparing it for future growth. The Independence Historical Trust has also joined forces to ensure this redesign highlights the district’s storied past alongside cutting-edge infrastructure.
Councilmember Mark Squilla, who worked closely with community advocates, underscored the collaborative nature of this project, saying, “I was happy to work with the Independence Historical Trust and Old City District as they garnered feedback from the surrounding community on a multi modal design for this historic corridor to help achieve Vision Zero goals.”
Funding comes from a patchwork of state and federal sources, including the Automated Red-Light Enforcement program, Vision Zero capital funds, and generous contributions from Independence Historical Trust and Old City District. Construction is being carried out by C. Abbonizio Contractors, with a targeted completion date of summer 2026—just in time to welcome the world for America’s 250th birthday.
This is more than an infrastructure project; it’s a banner moment for Philadelphia. By prioritizing safety and accessibility, while leaning into the area’s historic charm, the city is sending a resounding message—it’s ready to lead the celebrations for America’s next chapter.
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