The ongoing construction on Market Street is having a significant impact on local businesses, particularly Angelo Pizza.
Owner Angelo Pizza, who opened his namesake restaurant in November 2020, noted that while the pandemic posed challenges, the continuous construction has become the bigger threat to his business.
He reports that foot traffic has dropped by 25 to 30 percent, severely affecting sales: “If I were a newer business, we probably wouldn’t make it through this,” he said.
The construction is aimed at improving the street’s accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
Though this effort is expected to yield long-term benefits, the short-term disruptions are proving challenging for some local entrepreneurs.
Pizza is not alone in feeling the adverse effects of this project. Many other nearby shops are also experiencing decreased customer visits.
In other news, the popular Netflix reality show “Love Is Blind” is set to come to Philadelphia.
This show, known for its unique dating format, features participants who meet for blind dates without seeing each other, leading to marriage proposals after just ten days of conversations.
The excitement surrounding the show’s arrival has sparked interest, and potential contestants are being encouraged to join in.
In more community news, several significant developments have taken shape in the Philadelphia region this week.
A recent study highlights that cuts to the National Institutes of Health under President Donald Trump have removed over $100 million from Pennsylvania’s economy.
Moreover, Governor Shapiro has joined fellow lawmakers in a lawsuit against the Trump administration regarding the defunding of Planned Parenthood.
The impact of the state’s budget stalemate is becoming evident as schools and counties begin to report payment delays, now extending into the second month.
Additionally, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has been ranked as the third-worst airport in the United States, primarily due to performance metrics that include customer satisfaction.
In a more positive vein, the design for a statue honoring Sadie T.M. Alexander, a trailblazing civil rights leader, has been finalized.
It will soon be erected outside the Municipal Services Building, recognizing her contributions to civil rights and her legacy.
Customers facing overdue utility bills may find relief as PECO is offering $500 grants to help settle these debts.
Horse racing enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as Smarty Jones, a notable racehorse from Chester County, is set to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, 21 years after clinching a win at the Kentucky Derby.
As for the city’s leadership, Mayor Parker has no public events scheduled for Thursday, suggesting a quieter day for the mayor’s office.
Looking forward, plenty of events are on the horizon for the Philadelphia area, aimed at bringing the community together.
On Thursday, July 31, a preparedness workshop titled “Preparedness 101” will take place at Making Worlds Bookstore from 6 to 7 p.m.
The workshop aims to equip participants with the skills necessary to handle various emergency scenarios, from short-term power outages to longer periods requiring sheltering in place.
From July 31 through August 3, the BlackStar Film Fest will celebrate 14 years of showcasing Black, Brown, and Indigenous filmmakers.
This festival offers screenings both in person and online, with various events scheduled.
Art lovers can attend First Friday at Arch Enemy Arts on August 1, featuring six new exhibits from local artists where patrons can engage and discuss their work from 5 to 9 p.m.
On Saturday, August 2, the Fishtown First Farmers Market will be held at 2418 Martha Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering a family-friendly environment with local vendors.
Also on August 2, the School of Rock Block Party will take place at Evil Genius Beer Co., featuring live music, food, and vendors from noon until 11 p.m.
The day will also kick off the Island Country celebration, Philadelphia’s Annual Indonesian Independence Day Celebration, with a parade and ceremony at Gapura beginning at 4 p.m.
For those seeking a unique nighttime adventure, “Zoo Done It?” is set to engage guests in a mystery at the Philadelphia Zoo from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Finally, Love City Cabaret will host “Adventure is Out There!” at SideQuest Theater that evening at 7:30 p.m., inviting audience members of all ages to join in a night of musical fun celebrating exploration.
image source from：billypenn
