PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia's Midtown Village will become a car-free zone on Tuesday evenings in June as Center City District rolls out a new weekday version of its Open Streets program.
Open Streets: Midtown Village will run every Tuesday from June 2 through June 30, turning five blocks into a pedestrian-only area from 4-9 p.m.
Street closures will be in effect from 2-10 p.m. on 13th Street from Chestnut to Walnut, Sansom Street from 12th to Juniper, and Drury Street.
Midtown Village edition was created to give Center City residents and workers a car-free way to spend time after work in one of the city's major dining areas during a busy summer season, according to Center City District, a private-sector organization.
Similar Open Streets events have taken place on weekends.
“We’re excited to pilot the first Open Streets evening edition in Midtown Village,” said Center City District CEO Prema Katari Gupta said. “Hosting it during the week provides the bustling neighborhood with a break from car traffic and gives our restaurateurs extra space during happy hour and dinner times. We’re looking forward to learning how to further tailor this program to the needs of the neighborhood.”
Center City District said the pedestrian-only setup will expand public space along the route, with room for al fresco dining and sidewalk retail.
Businesses on the route may offer special promotions, in-store entertainment or other experiences. Food and drinks will be sold only by restaurants located along the route, and there will be no outside vendors.
The organization said visitors can expect ambient music, artists and Double Dutch performances by Philly Girls Jump. Center City District also plans to add seating and activities including ping-pong and miniature golf.
Visitors are being encouraged to support businesses on the route and in the surrounding neighborhood.
Open Streets: Midtown Village is being produced by Center City District with support from the City of Philadelphia and the Midtown Village Merchants Association. Events are weather-permitting and subject to change.
Select performances are supported by the Music Performance Trust Fund, American Federation of Musicians, and Local 77.
For more info, visit centercityphila.org/openstreets.
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