Philadelphia mayor touts momentum as Market East gets major refresh

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- This spring, the City of Philadelphia has been making significant investments in Center City's Market East corridor.

Several improvements are underway just in time to welcome visitors ahead of a busy summer and major upcoming events.

Surrounded by city leaders and business partners, Mayor Cherelle Parker took a walking tour of the Market East corridor on Thursday.

"I hope that you can feel that Market East matters. I hope you can feel the momentum and you can feel the energy," said Parker.

City officials highlighted a nearly $2 million beautification project that includes six new pop-up businesses that will temporarily fill vacant storefronts. It's a small glimpse of the new life coming to the area.

"These storefronts here on the 900 Block of Market Street are once again filled with life, entrepreneurship, music, art, conversation and community. This is what a revival looks like," said Parker.

The initiative is designed to transform vacant buildings, empty windows and aging infrastructure into a more vibrant corridor. The improvements come as Philadelphia prepares for major events, including America's 250th birthday and the World Cup.

The city says lots of progress has been made.

"More than 6,500 square feet of walls and windows brightened by local artists, 42 trees planted, 176 light and banner poles repainted, 21 bus shelters repainted and refurbished," said Prema Gupta, the CEO of the Center City District.

As the Mural Capital of the World, Philadelphia is also adding artistic touches through Mural Arts Philadelphia.

"When Philadelphians walk along the street, they are going to feel the energy of a city reflected back at them because these works were created by artists who are from Philly," said founder Jane Golden.

The mayor says it's all about the future, connecting a community and city, and showcasing what the city has to offer.

"From the very beginning, we understood that the future of Market East, it had to be built with the community and not for the community," said Parker.