Councilman DiCicco's Outdoor Advertising Bill 100013 takes away the city's ability to regulate signage and will allow massive outdoor advertising signs including LED digitals and rootop billboards along Market Street between 7th and 13th Street. This Bill is counter to recommendations found in both the 2009 Strategic Plan for Market East and Center City District's Planning for Growth on East Market Street written in 2007.
Philadelphia's rich historical and architectural character are irreplaceable assets,setting Philadelphia apart from "anyplace, USA. Our rich collection of architecture, history, and pedestrian friendly streetscapes attract tourists, new businesses and residents. Relinquishing our streetscape to corporate advertisers whose logos and commercial messages will dominate rooftoop billboards, towering wallwraps and glaring digital signs is an ineffective strategy to revitalize this corridor. We think that there can be a better way to achieve the goal of improving East Market Street.
What are your ideas? Share your comments here.....
For additional information:
Read Gray Smith's Letter to Councilman DiCicco
Read Inga Saffron's Inquirer, article, "Changing Skyline: Putting Pizzazz into Market East"
Read Dan Rubin's Daily News article, "Some illumination on lighted signs needed"
Inquirer Editorial Roadside Distractions
PlanPhilly: Planning Philadelphia's Future