New York City Streets Renaissance

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Philadelphia

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The Center City District in Philadelphia has made physical improvements spawning safer streets and economic vitality.

Failing Streets

In the 1980s, downtown Philadelphia was ridden with crime and economic decline. The Center City District Business Improvement District formed in 1990 to promote a "clean, safe, attractive and well-managed public environment."

Pedestrian-Oriented Improvements

Center City District's plan to create a more pleasant and profitable urban environment succeeded primarily because of pedestrian-oriented improvements. Streetscape improvements include new pedestrian-scale lampposts, trees, street furniture, and effective directional signage to local destinations.

Downtown Revitalized

Many short-term improvements have been implemented, including narrowing roads, adding amenities, and installing public art. Pedestrians now fill the streets, keeping downtown safe and promoting local business. In the ten years following the inception of the Center City District plan, crime plummeted and the downtown economy boomed.

Small business improvement districts with small operating budgets can follow this model for promoting neighborhood revival.