Today, the Reading Terminal Market teamed up with elected officials and funders to unveil a $1,000,000 plan to transform the 1100 block of Filbert Street. This project will improve the streetscape and enable the activation of approximately 15,000 square feet of public space.
The Market has executed a tremendous amount of research along with funding sources to make the most efficient use of this unique space. The Filbert Street Revitalization Project will include three prime elements:
- Streetscape Improvements
- Create the first curbless street in Philadelphia
- Widening the sidewalk
- Installing removable bollards at the perimeter
- Improving access to public transit
- Improving parking flexibility & rideshare designated zone
- Modular Street Furniture
- Increased dining & seating capacity
- Pop-up retail kiosks
- Locally designed & built
- Temporary and Permanent Art Installations
- Sculptures
- Public murals
- Ongoing cultural programming
“Fostering and nurturing the ‘Cosmopolitan Canopy’ that exists inside the Reading Terminal is one of our core priorities, and what better way to do this than to extend the Market atmosphere out onto the sidewalk,” said Anuj Gupta, General Manager of the Reading Terminal Market. “This funding will allow us to animate Filbert Street by creating a dynamic and inclusive public space with opportunities for shoppers, diners, families, artists, and entrepreneurs to all enjoy equally. On behalf of the staff and board of the Reading Terminal Market, we would like to thank Governor Tom Wolf, Representative Mary Isaacson, Senator Larry Farnese, Councilman Mark Squilla, the William Penn Foundation, and the Knight Foundation.”
“Reading Terminal Market is a wonderful space that brings together a diverse group of businesses, residents, and visitors,” said Judilee Reed, Program Director at the William Penn Foundation. “With this project, Reading Terminal Market is embracing its role as a place where diverse people come together to engage in new ways.”
“The Reading Terminal is a leading example of the power of public spaces to transform communities,” added Ellen Hwang, Knight Foundation program director for Philadelphia. “This effort will extend its impact as a community connector that showcases local talent, brings together people of different backgrounds and attaches them to our great city.”
“I am committed to increasing safety, health, and mobility for everyone visiting the Market – one of the District’s and Philadelphia’s most loved and visited attractions by residents and tourists alike,” said Representative Mary Isaacson. “I was proud to bring home support from Harrisburg for The Filbert Street Revitalization Project to improve the overall streetscape as well as better accommodate pedestrians, drivers, and public transit and rideshare users. These improvements position the Market to welcome visitors from the Philadelphia region and beyond for the next 125 years.”
