New timeline set for $100M redesign of Avenue of the Arts
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South Broad Street is about to get a whole new look. Image: Courtesy of Avenue of the Arts Inc.
The delayed $100 million plan to revitalize Philadelphia's Avenue of the Arts is moving ahead in the fall.
Why it matters: The major overhaul aims to make a concrete-dominated stretch of South Broad Street more walkable, safe for pedestrians, and green.
State of play: The AveArts 2.0 project's first phase, covering the block in front of the Kimmel Center, is expected to start in September, Carl Dranoff, Avenue of the Arts Inc. board member and real estate developer, tells Axios.
- The original groundbreaking had been slated for April, but it was pushed back due to design work and permitting delays.
- Once completed, the project will remake 10 blocks along the roadway from City Hall to Washington Avenue.
The big picture: New skyscrapers, restaurants, supermarkets and investments have been fueling a development boom along the roadway in recent years.
- Plus: South Broad Street is Philly's centerpiece — the site of Super Bowl celebrations, Mummers parades and the city's arts hub.
Between the lines: Avenue of the Arts Inc., the nonprofit behind the project, had to split the planned improvements for the block between Pine and Spruce streets into two parts due to Philly's big 2026 celebrations, which include hosting World Cup matches.
- Each phase will cost approximately $4 million.
Phase 1: Install a new, raised median on the block filled with trees, plants and other greenery, as well as space for public art.
- The new median will be tall enough to discourage pedestrians from crossing the busy roadway and to prevent people from using it as a photo backdrop (looking at you, newly engaged couples!).
- The improvements are expected to wrap up in spring 2026.
Phase 2: Remake the Kimmel Center block's sidewalks by adding greenery, planters, seating and artwork while updating lighting and signage.
- These improvements will take over portions of South Broad Street's right lanes in both directions, which are currently being used for parking and shoulders.
- Expected start date: fall 2026.
What's ahead: The project's next phase will move north, redesigning the block between Locust and Spruce Streets.
What they're saying: "That's where we're headed for South Broad Street — we're going to be a symbol of the revitalization of Philadelphia," Dranoff said.