Streetscape Case Studies

Commercial Corridor Improvements
Commercial corridors should be kept clean and free from litter; trash receptacles should be placed on every block.

a.) People (i.e. customers) should feel safe and comfortable while strolling along the sidewalk. This can be achieved through well-lit sidewalks and streets, the regular presence of police, the enforcement of loitering regulations, clean sidewalks, and the presence of street trees.
b.) The district should be identifiable. Banners and gateway signs/installations can make a commercial corridor more identifiable, conspicuous, and festive.
c.) Streets should be safe for people to cross. On especially wide commercial streets, curb “bump-outs” and countdown signals can help make the crossing experience more comfortable.
d.) Improve the pedestrian experience through artisitc expression and landscaping in the streetscape.
People (i.e. customers) should feel safe and comfortable while strolling along the sidewalk.

Case Study: Wadsworth Avenue Corridor, Philadelphia
Investment in street trees, pedestrian-scale lighting, and trash receptacles along this commercial corridor in Northwest Philadelphia in 2008 created an environment that has drawn additional customer traffic and motivated store owners to invest in façade improvements. Furthermore, the creation of a landscaped gateway and the installation of a “Welcome to” sign at the intersection of Wadsworth Avenue and Cheltenham Avenue taps into the significant automobile traffic along Cheltenham Avenue. New banners on the existing light poles further define the area to passing motorists and pedestrians.


The streetscape along Lancaster Avenue already incorporates many artistic elements. What else should happen along Lancaster Avenue to improve this commercial corridor?