The Weather Outside is Frightful,

But the Planters Are So Delightful

Avenue of the Arts’ Installation of New Planters in Full Swing; Part of 5-Year Plan to Improve and Beautify Streetscape

PHILADELPHIA (December 23, 2009) – With wintery weather arriving early this year, many are thinking more about snow shovels than garden trowels. But the non-profit organization Avenue of the Arts, Inc. (AAI) is focusing more on flowers with the installation of new planters along South Broad Street, a key element in its five-year capital plan.

“Originally installed in 1996, the iconic planters seen from City Hall to Pine Street have deteriorated from the weather and other elements,” says Karen Lewis, AAI Executive Director. “Replacing the planters on South Broad Street will add a contemporary style more in step with the Avenue’s character, creating a true visual impact.”

AAI is working closely with the PA Horticultural Society for the execution the planter replacement project. To date, 62 planters have been installed, with another 17 to be completed by Spring.

The planter replacement is part of AAI’s five-year capital plan to beautify one of the city’s main boulevards, making it safe and hospitable for businesses, residents and tourists. A close collaboration between public and private leaders, active involvement by the city planners, and private investments have supported the project.

Avenue of the Arts, Inc., is an independent non-profit organization created in 1993 that aims to reinvigorate Broad Street as the arts and entertainment heart and soul of Philadelphia and the region. AAI provides leadership for the growth of Avenue of the Arts as a vibrant and attractive place to work, shop, live, learn and play.

The Avenue of the Arts corridor is a 3.5-mile section of Broad Street, one block east and west, from Temple University (Glenwood Avenue) in North Philadelphia to Washington Avenue in South Philadelphia. AAI has played a vital role in the creation of several key performing arts venues and has advocated for the physical improvement of the district’s streetscape. AAI serves as a catalyst for policies, programs, and projects that encourage economic and cultural development on the Avenue of the Arts through marketing, beautification projects, and careful planning and research for sustainable growth. For more, visit www.avenueofthearts.org.

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