Benjamin Franklin Parkway

CPDC released “Completing the Benjamin Franklin Parkway,” a report that prompted interest, as well as opposition to the elimination of so much open space along the Parkway.

CCD begins the installation of 222 ornamental, pedestrian-scale lights and 132 vehicular lights along the Parkway from 16th Street to Eakin’s Oval.

Additional lights followed the next year, with façade lighting for eight landmark buildings and 20 works of public art along the Parkway.

CPDC released a second improvement plan that focused on less density and more on public space. This plan has guided CCD’s investments since then.

Additionally, CCD enhanced pedestrian access to Swann Fountain at Logan Square with the installation of six new signalized crosswalks.

CCD completed extensive reconstruction of Aviator Park, including new paved walkways, plantings, benches, tras receptacles and light fixtures.

Additionally, CCD installed directional and interpretive signs to guide pedestrians along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and provide information about the institutions and public sculptures.

CCD re-landscaped and renovated Cret Park and Capriccio Café. Improvements included new sidewalks, lawn, trees, shrubs, flowers, benches and lighting.

Design and construction were funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the City of Philadelphia’s Parks & Recreation Department and AGL Investments.

CCD cut the ribbon on a renovated Sister Cities Park, including the café, Children’s Discovery Garden, pond, and fountains.

For the 100th anniversary of the Parkway, CPDC worked with producer History Making Productions on a 12-minute video that tells the history of the Parkway, highlights its strengths and weaknesses and challenges Philadelphia once again to think boldly about the future of the Parkway, with concepts by landscape designer Laurie Olin.