Contact:                                                
JoAnn Loviglio
T 215.440.5546
jloviglio@centercityphila.org
pr@centercityphila.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

New report reveals path to convert service corridors into vibrant public assets  

PHILADELPHIA (June 30, 2025) – The Center City District (CCD) today released a groundbreaking study examining over 2.5 miles of Philadelphia's alley network with the goal of transforming these underutilized spaces into valuable public assets.

Reclaiming Alleys: A Fresh Look at One of Philadelphia's Oldest Networks, a comprehensive survey of 45 Center City alleys, reveals significant challenges but also significant, achievable potential to evolve into safer, cleaner, and more active urban spaces.

"Our investigation of Center City’s alleys revealed that while many need improvement, they also show substantial promise," CCD President & CEO Prema Katari Gupta said. “In addition to enhancing walkability, clean alleys will unlock the value of adjacent real estate, providing additional opportunities for retail or workshop spaces at lower rents for small businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs.”

Current State Reveals Urgent Need for Action 
The study's findings paint a stark picture of current alley conditions. Of the 446 dumpsters surveyed, 68% were unlocked or unsealed, and 41% had trash scattered nearby, creating environments that violate existing city regulations. The team observed homeless activity in 60% of surveyed alleys, with 75% of dumpsters in those locations found to be unlocked — highlighting a strong correlation between poor dumpster maintenance and quality-of-life issues.

A Framework for Transformation 

The study categorizes alleys into three distinct types — service, pedestrian, and pedestrian/vehicular — providing a strategic framework for targeted improvements. Researchers discovered that nearly 25% of the more than 600 doors observed serve as primary entrances, demonstrating that many alleys already function as main access points for residents, businesses, and visitors.

The report outlines a tiered approach to improvement, beginning with immediate, achievable solutions:

• Outreach and Engagement: Raising awareness among business owners about proper dumpster maintenance
• Secure Dumpster Lids: Simple locking mechanisms to prevent overflow and unauthorized access
• Updated Regulations: Amending city code to mandate locked (not just sealed) dumpster lids
• Consolidation Strategies: Exploring shared compactors and coordinated waste hauler services
• Strategic Reinvestment: Identifying alleys for capital improvements, public art, and programming

Implementation Already Underway
Mayor Cherelle Parker's administration has launched monthly alley walkthroughs involving teams from the Philadelphia Police Department, Licenses and Inspections, and Sanitation. Early results show promise, with sample surveys revealing increased compliance with dumpster regulations following targeted outreach efforts.

Economic and Community Benefits
The report emphasizes that clean, well-managed alleys can boost foot traffic, attract retailers and residents, unlock the value of neighboring properties, and strengthen the overall investment appeal of Center City. By improving these spaces, Philadelphia can enhance one of its strongest downtown assets: walkability.

Learning from Global Success Stories
The report highlights successful alley transformations from Melbourne's laneway revitalization to Vancouver's interconnected network of vibrant public spaces. Locally, the study showcases promising Philadelphia examples, including the redesigned East Market alleys with overhead lighting and curbless pathways, and Moravian Street's café seating and overhead market lighting.

2026: A Catalyst for Change
With Philadelphia preparing to host the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game, and America's 250th birthday celebration, the timing for alley improvements is particularly strategic. It presents a unique opportunity to harness momentum, improve alley conditions, reinvest in downtown walkability, and transform some of these spaces into vibrant destinations.

"Transforming our alleys is more achievable than it appears," Gupta said. "By focusing on keeping dumpsters closed, clean, and well managed, we can drastically reduce visual pollution, enhance the public's view of Center City, and create momentum for larger, systemic improvements."

The full Reclaiming Alleys report is available both as an interactive StoryMap and a downloadable PDF. 

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Center City District, a private-sector organization dedicated to making Center City Philadelphia clean, safe and attractive, is committed to maintaining Center City’s competitive edge as a regional employment center, a quality place to live, and a premier regional destination for dining, shopping and cultural attractions.