Center City District’s Open Streets program is a hit and, in a recently released annual report, the group said that retailers throughout the district reported higher sales and a jump in foot traffic.
And, seeing such success, the district plans to scale up the Open Streets program “significantly” in the coming year.
Open Streets, which initially launched in the fall of 2024, sees Walnut Street from 17th to 19th, and 18th Street from Chestnut to Locust streets, closed to vehicle traffic on Sundays.
In its first year, the event brought 115,000 visitors to the business corridor.
And, according to the newly released report, this year, have helped businesses in the Open Streets footprint to see a 39% increase in sales and 65% more foot traffic than typical Sundays.
“By closing off key streets to vehicular traffic and opening them to unrestricted pedestrian access, Open Streets created an inviting environment that increased the amount of space for people by nearly double,” the report reads. “A year later, the results speak for themselves: data from CCD’s 21 Open Streets events have proven to show they boost pedestrian volumes, increase business’ foot traffic and sales, and create an environment of calm and safety in the middle of Center City.”
The report claims that, following this success, the Center City District plans to build with more Open Streets events in 2026 — with locations and specific events to be announced in the coming months.
Also, the district said that there will be a special holiday Open Streets event on Dec. 7, 2025.
The report also touted new businesses opening in the district this year — including Nike’s first Jordan Brand “World of Flight” store in the United States — and the fact that several Center City-based eateries are now recognized by the Michelin Guide — including some with illustrious Michelin stars.
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