As the holiday season approaches, Center City District (CCD) is once again transforming a portion of the city into a pedestrian-friendly oasis, allowing visitors to shop, stroll, and socialize without the interference of vehicular traffic. Following a successful launch in September, the Open Streets: West Walnut program is set to return for two Sundays in December, offering a unique opportunity for businesses and residents alike to embrace the festive spirit of the season.

Unlocking the Potential of Pedestrian-Friendly Spaces

Reviving Foot Traffic and Boosting Business

The Open Streets: West Walnut initiative aims to create a vibrant, car-free environment that encourages people to explore the local shops, restaurants, and attractions along Walnut Street and 18th Street in Rittenhouse Row. During the September pilot program, businesses in the area reported a remarkable 86% increase in foot traffic, with some retailers citing a staggering 300% surge in their typical Sunday sales. This remarkable success has set the stage for the upcoming winter edition, which promises to further capitalize on the increased foot traffic and provide an additional boost to the local economy.

Expanding Outdoor Experiences

The car-free streets will serve as an extension of the public space, allowing retailers to expand their operations outdoors and offer a more immersive shopping and dining experience. Stores will have the opportunity to showcase their wares, host special events, and entice passersby with exclusive discounts and in-store entertainment. Restaurants, too, will be able to expand their seating onto the sidewalks, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their meals and drinks.

Fostering Community Engagement

Beyond the commercial benefits, the Open Streets: West Walnut program aims to foster a sense of community and social engagement. The event will feature a dedicated kid-friendly zone along the 1800 block of Walnut Street, complete with sidewalk chalk, bubbles, games, and toys, as well as weekly storytime events with Santa Claus. Additionally, cozy seating pods will be scattered throughout the streets, providing a comfortable space for visitors to relax, socialize, and even catch live broadcasts of Philadelphia Eagles games.

Embracing the Holiday Spirit

The timing of the Open Streets: West Walnut program couldn't be more perfect, as it coincides with the arrival of the holiday season. The car-free streets will add an extra layer of magic to an already festive Center City, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere for visitors to immerse themselves in the spirit of the season. From the festive decorations and special incentives offered by participating businesses to the live entertainment and holiday-themed activities, the event promises to be a true celebration of the holiday season.

Navigating the Car-Free Zones

The Open Streets: West Walnut program will take place on December 8th and December 15th, with street closures starting at 9 a.m. and ending at 7 p.m. along the designated route: 18th Street from Chestnut to Locust and Walnut Street from 15th to 19th. While the main streets will be closed to vehicular traffic, select intersections and the 1700 and 1800 blocks of Sansom Street will remain open to allow for cross-street access.It's important to note that open containers of alcohol will not be permitted, and the sale of takeout food will be at the discretion of the individual restaurants. Visitors are encouraged to explore the participating businesses, take advantage of the special offers and activities, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of the car-free streets.

Expanding the Vision for Pedestrian-Friendly Spaces

The success of the Open Streets: West Walnut program is a testament to the growing demand for pedestrian-friendly spaces in urban centers. As President and CEO of CCD, Prema Katari Gupta, aptly stated, "The idea of Open Streets: West Walnut began with a hypothesis: streets filled with people drive more business than streets filled with cars." This hypothesis has been proven true, and the upcoming winter edition of the event promises to build upon this momentum, further enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of Center City.By creating these car-free zones, CCD is not only supporting local businesses but also fostering a more inclusive and accessible public space for residents and visitors alike. As the city continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its community, initiatives like Open Streets: West Walnut serve as a model for how urban centers can prioritize pedestrian experiences and create a more sustainable, livable environment.