PHILADELPHIA, PA — Philadelphia is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. But there is something more that is shaping the city’s identity – its commitment to creating safer, greener, and more efficient city streets for all users. The Washington Avenue Repaving and Improvement project, completed in 2023, is an excellent case in point.
This transformative project, spearheaded by Philadelphia’s Office of Transportation, Infrastructure, and Sustainability (OTIS), was intended primarily to enhance transportation safety and streamline curbside management along Washington Avenue – specifically between Broad Street and 4th Street. Implemented by the Department of Streets, these improvements reflect broad community engagement and smart design strategies.
Several key enhancements make Washington Avenue a better space for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. Traffic calming measures now reduce the potential for high-speed accidents. For walkers and cyclists, their exposure to vehicular traffic has been lessened. More daytime parking and new public loading zones have increased convenience and safety for drivers. Furthermore, painted bus boarding islands have been introduced, offering a safer and more organized transit system.
The first-year evaluation report reveals fascinating findings. The remodeled Washington Avenue – especially the section east of Broad Street – is now safer, greener, and more efficient. Rampant speeding is not as common now, thanks to the new speed cushions. The project has also curbed reckless driving across the corridor.
Practically, the impact of these changes has been far-reaching. Parking and loading capacity have spiked in areas with updated regulations and new loading zones. Illegal parking, once a common menace, has declined significantly. Interestingly, vehicle travel times or transit operations have remained unchanged despite the lane reduction on Washington Avenue or on parallel routes.
The new Washington Avenue is also a greener avenue. Route 64 travel times have improved, ridership has grown faster than citywide trends, and more bicyclists now use the avenue. Moreover, peak hour bicycle volumes have surged up to 181%, most notably between 11th and 4th streets.
A consistent problem, however, persists in sidewalk parking. Notably, the 700, 800, and 900 blocks have seen an 81% increase in sidewalk parking between 2017 and 2023. The city recognizes this issue and is committed to addressing it.
What lies ahead for Washington Avenue? OTIS plans to upgrade some interim painted bus islands to concrete in cooperation with SEPTA. This step will improve accessibility and ease of boarding and exiting the bus. Adjustments to signal timing, curbside regulations, and enforcement strategy will also be considered.
In March 2025, a follow-up study will assess the conditions two years post-installation. A comprehensive 3-year post-installation crash analysis is slated for Fall 2027. Throughout these evaluations, the city will continuously engage with businesses to verify that the project design meets their requirements and make modifications if required.
The revitalization of Washington Avenue is more than an infrastructure upgrade. It signals Philadelphia’s ongoing commitment to the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of its thoroughfares. This project illustrates that when a city listens to its citizens, designs smartly, and implements effectively, the benefits extend to everyone who walks, rides, drives, or lives alongside its streets.
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