22 Oct Commerce Connector Reopens
$2.7 MILLION COMMERCE CONNECTOR OPENS
IN PHILADELPHIA’S HISTORIC DISTRICT
Revitalized pedestrian corridor features new lighting, landscaping, public gathering spaces, and restored artwork, creating a more welcoming connection through Old City
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PHILADELPHIA, PA – October 20, 2026 – Independence Historical Trust (IHT), in partnership with the City of Philadelphia, Old City District, and Old City Green, today announced the official opening of the Commerce Connector, a $2.7 million revitalization project that transformed a once-underused pedestrian corridor into a greener, safer, and more welcoming public space in the heart of Philadelphia’s Historic District.
The Commerce Connector provides a pedestrian route between the Independence Visitor Center area at 5th Street and Carpenters’ Hall, passing through Market Street, Franklin Court, and the historic blocks behind 399 Market Street. The improvements include upgraded pedestrian lighting, redesigned entrances, new landscaping and 19 trees, expanded seating and gathering areas, and enhanced safety and accessibility throughout the corridor.
“The Commerce Connector is a powerful example of what can happen when public investment and community partnerships come together around a shared vision,” said Bill Marrazzo, Chair of Independence Historical Trust. “Projects like this require collaboration, long-term commitment, and a shared understanding of what makes the Historic District special. We’re proud to work alongside partners who recognize that preserving Philadelphia’s historic character also means investing in the public spaces that connect these important places.”
The project replaces deteriorated paving, limited lighting, and poorly defined pedestrian access with a more open and inviting environment. New light poles, illuminated bollards, and stairway lighting improve visibility, while redesigned entrances from 4th and Market streets provide accessible routes into the corridor. Benches, tables, chairs, and landscaped areas encourage visitors to pause, gather, and enjoy the green space. Additional fencing and protective bollards further enhance safety along the upper-level areas.
Funded by the City of Philadelphia and administered by the Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC), the project was completed within its $2.7 million budget.
“Investments in public spaces are investments in the people and neighborhoods they serve,” said Councilmember Mark Squilla, who helped secure funding for the project. “The Commerce Connector makes this part of Old City safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for residents, workers, and visitors. It’s a great example of how thoughtful infrastructure improvements can strengthen a neighborhood while preserving the character that makes it special.”
Already, the revitalized corridor is serving as a neighborhood gathering place, with residents meeting at outdoor tables, walking their dogs, and enjoying the landscaped surroundings. Visitors can also take advantage of the quieter setting between stops at nearby historic attractions.
“Old City is a neighborhood where history, commerce, and everyday life intersect, and the Commerce Connector brings those elements together in a meaningful way,” said Job Itzkowitz, Executive Director of Old City District. “By making this corridor more inviting and easier to navigate, we’re encouraging people to explore beyond the main streets, discover nearby businesses and cultural destinations, and spend more time in the neighborhood. That increased foot traffic can help support local businesses while strengthening Old City’s appeal as a place to live, work, and visit.”
A notable feature of the revitalized space is Thirteen Into One, a 1977 sculpture by artist Harold Kimmelman. With funding from Old City Green, the sculpture was conserved and relocated to the east end of the park, where it now stands on a newly constructed pedestal. The conservation work included repairing damage, removing blemishes and scratches, and polishing the sculpture to restore its reflective finish.
Old City Green first launched an initiative to revitalize the corridor in 2017 through a Community Design Collaborative planning grant. Nearly nine years later, that vision has become a reality with the opening of the Commerce Connector.
“Seeing the Commerce Connector open to the public is especially meaningful after so many years of planning and collaboration,” said Joe Schiavo, Vice President of Old City Green. “Our vision has always been to make this overlooked part of the neighborhood a place people want to spend time. We’re also proud to have funded the conservation and relocation of Thirteen Into One, preserving a piece of Old City’s public art and giving it a renewed presence in the neighborhood.”
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About Independence Historical Trust:
Independence Historical Trust is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose primary mission is to support Independence National Historical Park by protecting, preserving, and interpreting Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the vibrant gateway communities. Established in 1972, the Trust was the first Friends group to support a national park. As a partner, the Trust invests the public’s philanthropic dollars in park programs, conservation efforts, and capital campaigns. The Trust also works with other partners in the historic area to enhance the visitor experience. For over 52 years, the Trust has been the Philanthropic Partner of Independence National Historical Park. To support these initiatives or learn about other Semiquincentennial projects, please visit the website at http://www.INHT.org.