Mayor Parker, Advisory Group Launch the Reimagining Market East Initiative a Bold Vision to Transform Market East

A unified push to revitalize the Market East corridor through public-private partnership, collaboration, and robust community engagement

PHILADELPHIA - Mayor Cherelle L. Parker alongside the Market East Advisory today announced the Reimagining Market East Initiative, a bold and multifaceted campaign to transform this vital corridor into a world-class civic, commercial, and entertainment destination, restoring its prominence as Philadelphia's Main Street. Seizing on the momentum generated by the torrent of exciting events coming to Philadelphia in 2026, the City has convened the Market East Advisory Group, a dynamic public-private partnership, to develop a shared vision for Market East and a plan to bring it to fruition.

The Advisory Group is led collaboratively by Jessie Lawrence and Octavia Howell, the Director and Deputy Director of the Department of Planning and Development, and Jerry Sweeney, President and CEO of Brandywine Realty Trust and the Chair of the Mayor's Center City Revitalization Business Roundtable. Members include a wide range of more than 60 business, civic, city planning, development, labor and government leaders. Chief of Staff Tiffany Thurman will serve as the Mayor's primary liaison to the group.

"From the start, my administration has prioritized creating a comprehensive, collaborative plan to reimagine Market East-not simply as a corridor to pass through, but as a vibrant destination for living, working, shopping, and gathering," said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "That's why, even before taking office, I ensured this effort was grounded in strong partnerships and thoughtful planning."

Mayor Parker identified Comcast as one such partner, expressing her appreciation for the Philadelphia-based corporation's leadership and commitment to Philadelphia's growth.

"This new vision for Market East reflects the bold, forward-looking leadership Philadelphia deserves," said Thomas J. Reid, Chief Legal Officer & Secretary, Comcast and East Market Advisory Group Member. "Our $60 million land purchase and upcoming demolition are proof of our commitment to a revitalized corridor and a vibrant 2026. We're moving quickly on both the arena and long-term mixed-use development."

Other Market East Advisory Group members also expressed optimism about their partnerships with the City, the Advisory Group's work, and the corridor's future prospects.

"We're focused on building strong leasing momentum and elevating the merchandising mix at Fashion District Philadelphia," said Alex Eliopoulos, Assistant Vice President, Asset Management, Macerich. "With renewed energy behind the property and a strong partnership with the City and Market East Advisory Committee, we're optimistic about Market East's future and the increased activity these efforts will help drive at the center."

"We look forward to working closely with the City and key stakeholders to shape a bold and viable vision for the future of Market East, one that honors its historic significance as a world-class boulevard and reimagines the corridor as a vibrant, thriving destination once again," said Daniel Killinger, President, National Real Estate Development.

Ongoing improvements to Market East include:

• New infrastructure upgrades, such as improved utilities and transportation features.

• Upgraded streetscapes to enhance walkability and aesthetics.

• Safer street crossings.

• Preparations to renovate and reopen the intercity bus terminal at 10th and Filbert Streets.

Additionally, the Advisory Group will propose short-term activations along Market East to engage residents and visitors during Philadelphia's 2026 events.

"As these exciting shorter term projects unfold," said Tiffany W. Thurman, Chief of Staff, City of Philadelphia. "the Advisory Group will continue its work to deliver a plan for Market East for 2027 and into the future that is bold, actionable, and informed by community needs, interests, and aspirations."

The Advisory Group is tasked with designing and implementing an engagement plan to ensure broad and meaningful public participation. This plan will include strategies to overcome barriers such as atypical work schedules, limited English proficiency, low literacy, caretaking responsibilities, and disabilities.

"The Advisory Group is committed to fostering open dialogue and building consensus," said Gerald H. Sweeney, President & CEO, Brandywine Realty Trust and Chair, Center City Revitalization Business Roundtable. "Members of the public and of the Advisory Group itself represent a broad array of interests, and there will no doubt be intense debates and disagreements. That's the way Mayor Parker designed this process, and with the Mayor's strong support and leadership, ultimately it will yield tremendous benefits."

The Market East Advisory Group's work will focus on Market Street from City Hall to Penn's Landing, with special attention to the blocks between City Hall and Independence Mall. These efforts will be considered within the broader context of adjacent neighborhoods, Center City, and the entire city of Philadelphia.

Members of the public are encouraged to visit phila.gov/marketeast to share their ideas and stay informed about opportunities to participate.