Morris Street near 12th was closed this past weekend, forcing more traffic onto 13th Street, even for drivers who weren't visiting the display. As of Monday, Morris is back open, which officials say should help, but some residents remain concerned
about congestion.
"The sound of people honking, road rage, people screaming at each other because they can't get by. That's not something that we want," said Beckett Woodworth, who lives in South Philadelphia.
Every December, the 1600 block of South 13th Street transforms into a winter wonderland, drawing visitors from across the city and beyond.
"It seems to be an institution," said Patrick Cunningham of Northern Liberties. "When we first moved here I told my wife about it and I was like we should go, and honestly, it hasn't disappointed."
But some neighbors say more needs to be done to alleviate traffic, improve pedestrian safety and account for emergencies.
"When an event brings this much traffic, this much car traffic in South Philly, where the streets are tiny, you can't pull over if an ambulance or firetruck comes. How would one get to you when you're in need? It's something a lot of neighbors
think about," Woodworth said.
"One of the solutions is more open streets," Woodworth added, suggesting closing streets to cars during peak times, usually weekends, and making the event pedestrian-only.
Councilmember Mark Squilla, who represents the neighborhood on City Council, said he's open to exploring that idea.
"We have to look at what maybe negative impacts that would bring, but I'd be happy to have that discussion with the Streets Department and look at logistics and see if that's even possible," Squilla said.
Squilla said residents and the city have collaborated on electronic signage and coordinated with tour and trolley companies to reduce congestion. Woodworth, however, said he speaks for a group of neighbors who feel that more needs to be done to
keep the Miracle magical but also safe.
"It's reaching an inflection point as popularity grows, More and more people, more cars, or trolleys or private tour buses," he said.
The display also serves as a charity event benefiting various causes. It runs from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Jan. 1.