Coucilmember Frank DiCicco recently introduced legislation amending the city's billboard ordinance to create a Times Square-style advertising district on Market Street between 7th and 13th Streets.  Many are worried that the legislation will open the door to billboard blight across the city, since the proposal strips language from the ordinance that has validated billboard restrictions in neighborhoods and scenic viewsheds citywide.  The proposed Market Street district, which includes many historic buildings and comes within a block of Independence National Park, would allow signs of unlimited size, including jumbo video screens and full-building wraps. Opponents argue that, beyond the district's adverse impact to the city's visual character, buildings otherwise ripe for rehabilitation will be allowed to fester behind signs making "easy money" for unscrupulous landlords.  The Preservation Alliance has joined SCRUB, The Public Voice for Public Space in opposing the bill, which is currently being reviewed by the Committee on Rules.  You can read more about Bill 100013 on SCRUB's website, or view the bill in its entirety by clicking here.

Return to current advocacy issues.