Extensive Improvements to Ben Franklin Parkway to Begin this Summer

Philadelphia, June 7, 2010—Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter and Governor Edward G. Rendell were joined by leaders from the city’s cultural and philanthropic communities today to announce the start of work on three major projects to dramatically enhance the Benjamin Franklin Parkway for residents and visitors: streetscape improvements for the 2100 and 2200 blocks, restoration of the Rodin Museum grounds and courtyard garden, and the creation of an entirely new Sister Cities Park.

These projects are part of a package of Parkway improvements first announced in July 2008 and supported by the City, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and private funders. Total costs for the work—which will also include improvements to the 1600-1800 blocks and Shakespeare Park in a subsequent phase—are estimated at $19.1 million. Fairmount Park, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Center City District are directing the respective projects.

\”I would like to thank all the project’s funders and partners who have worked together to make these significant improvements to the public realm of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, supporting our great institutions, welcoming the Barnes to the Parkway and providing the highest level of amenities to our visitors and guests,\” said Mayor Nutter.

Breaking ground today, under the leadership of Fairmount Park, will be the streetscape work. The city will narrow the outer lanes of the 2100 and 2200 blocks, reducing the line