ICYMI: Boyle Highlights $850,000 in Federal Funding for Improvements Across Philadelphia’s Historic District
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) today joined leaders from the Independence Historical Trust at the National Constitution Center to highlight $850,000 in new federal Community Project Funding he secured for improvements throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District. The announcement comes as Philadelphia prepares for the nation’s semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) and continues long-term work to strengthen and modernize the Historic District for decades to come.
“The idea that right behind me on Independence Mall, people from all over the nation, indeed all over the world, are going to be coming here — not just the United States, but coming to Philadelphia, to the heart of America's founding — to celebrate our nation is truly inspiring,” said Congressman Boyle. “This is the most historic square mile in the nation. This is literally the nation's birthplace, and I believe the $850,000 I'm presenting to you today will only help us enhance this area for all Philadelphians and indeed for all people throughout the nation to come and celebrate our nation's history.”
“We are fortunate as Philadelphians that your district covers this remarkable square mile of historical assets,” said Bill Marrazzo, Independence Historical Trust Board Chair. “With this expression of financial support made possible by your sponsorship Congressman, the Independence Historical Trust, in partnership with so many other not-for-profits in this region, is gonna continue to invest in making it easy for people to get around this remarkable body of historical assets here in the city of Philadelphia.”
The funding delivered by Rep. Boyle supports two major improvement projects in the Historic District. The Gateway Project at 6th and Race Streets will deliver long-overdue streetscape upgrades to improve safety, walkability, and connectivity near Franklin Square Park and the northern edge of Independence Mall. The final phase of Tamanend Plaza at 2nd and Market Streets will deliver a revitalized public space honoring Lenni Lenape Chief Tamanend. The plaza will feature upgraded pedestrian crossings, new bike lanes, green space enhancements, and other improvements to support a safer and more welcoming environment.
At today’s event, Congressman Boyle announced that this funding brings the total amount he has secured for the Historic District to nearly $4 million over the past two and a half years. Leaders from the Independence Historical Trust—including Chair Bill Marrazzo, Executive Director Tom Caramanico, and Development Director Jonathan Burton—joined the Congressman in emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in the Historic District as the city approaches America’s 250th anniversary.
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