Philadelphia is once again embracing unique opportunities for pedestrians in Center City with the return of Open Streets: West Walnut this fall.
Kicking off from September 7 and running through October 12, this popular program, now in its second year, will offer six Sundays dedicated to foot traffic, marking a significant increase from last year’s schedule.
The initiative, which first launched in September 2024, quickly gained traction among locals and visitors alike.
Data collected by the Center City District shows that nearly 90% of businesses reported a rise in customer foot traffic, with an average increase of 86%.
Some retailers even noted astonishing increases of up to 300% during typical Sunday hours.
In December, the initiative continued on two Sundays, leading into the holiday shopping season, where about 70% of participating businesses experienced increased foot traffic.
More than half indicated a sales boost, with an average rise of 24%.
This past April saw over 115,000 visitors during the festivities, underscoring the program’s growing popularity.
The spring season also yielded a 20% increase in pedestrian volumes compared to the same time last year, while overall visitation in the Rittenhouse Row area climbed 8%.
“With one year of Open Streets: West Walnut behind us, we are excited to expand the program to six Sundays this fall,” stated CCD President and CEO Prema Katari Gupta.
“This initiative represents a model for how Philadelphia can transition to a more pedestrian-friendly city, fostering community gathering spaces while bolstering our retail and restaurant sectors.”
The upcoming event will see streets closed from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., specifically along 18th Street from Chestnut to Locust and Walnut Street between 15th and 19th.
However, cross streets at designated intersections such as 16th, 17th, and 19th streets, along with the 1700 and 1800 blocks of Sansom Street, will remain passable for vehicles.
The official hours for Open Streets will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., transforming the area into an expanded public space connected to the nearby Rittenhouse Square.
Local businesses along the route have the freedom to optimize their outdoor spaces, with some planning to offer exclusive discounts, in-store entertainment, and special deals.
Restaurants will be permitted to sell food and beverages in designated areas, often expanding outdoor seating onto the sidewalks.
However, open containers of alcohol will not be allowed, and policies regarding takeout will be determined by individual restaurants.
This fall edition of Open Streets is set to include a variety of entertainment aimed at families and visitors alike.
Activities may feature bubble magic, lively busker-style musicians, and spontaneous performances.
Additionally, a family-friendly zone with games and seating pods will be created along the route.
On select Sundays, attendees will also have the chance to watch the Philadelphia Eagles games streamed at some businesses, enhancing the community experience.
As Open Streets: West Walnut returns, expectations are high for both community engagement and support for local businesses during these vibrant Sundays.
image source from：metrophiladelphia
