Philadelphia is continuing to offer unique ways to explore Center City with the return of Open Streets: West Walnut this spring. Beginning April 6 and continuing every Sunday through April 27, locals and tourists alike can shop, dine, and explore this bustling part of the city along seven blocks of car-free space.
The popular program debuted in September of 2024 and was an immediate hit.
In fact, as a release notes, Center City District collected data to analyze its initial impact, including surveys from those businesses, with nearly 90% reporting an increase in foot traffic to their storefronts. The average increase in traffic across respondents was 86%, though some retailers cited increases as high as 300% above their typical Sunday. The program continued for two Sundays in December in anticipation of the holiday shopping season, with nearly 70% of businesses indicating an increase in foot traffic and over half (55%) reporting a sales increase by an average of 24%.
“From the moment we closed the street on that first ‘Open Streets’ Sunday, it was clear that we had created something special,” said Prema Katari Gupta, President and CEO of Center City District in a statement. “In addition to driving pedestrian traffic, visibility and sales to retailers and restaurants, our goal was to prove that streets filled with people drive more business than streets filled with cars.”
On those set dates, street closures start at 7 a.m. and end at 6 p.m. along the program route, which includes 18th Street from Chestnut to Locust and Walnut Street from 15th to 19th. Note that cross streets will remain open to cars at select intersections, including 16th Street, 17th Street, 19th Street and the 1700 and 1800 blocks of Sansom Street. Open Streets’ official hours will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 6, 13, 20 and 27. The pedestrian-only thoroughfares will act as an extension of public space, with Rittenhouse Square’s 18th and Walnut entrance being a direct link to the park.
Its up to businesses along the routes how they take advantage of the space—some plan to offer exclusive discounts, in-store entertainment or special incentives. Food and beverages will be sold exclusively at restaurants along the route (with many expanding their tables onto the sidewalk.) Open containers of alcohol will not be permitted, and takeout food will be at the discretion of the restaurants, the release also states.
The District also plans to provide acoustic musicians, dancers and an appearance by the Easter Bunny on Sunday, April 20. The activation will also hold a Kid-Friendly Zone (on the 1800 block of Walnut Street) with sidewalk chalk, bubbles, games and toys. Locals can also find seating pods on each block.
“We want to continue to provide a space for people to gather while simultaneously supporting businesses within our District,” finished Gupta. “Open Streets has been a wonderful addition to the Center City experience, and we hope to welcome even more visitors and residents this spring.”
To find a full schedule of events, participating businesses and more for Open Streets: West Walnut, visit centercityphila.org
