PHILADELPHIA. Meet the new Ben Franklin Parkway, which will include a three-project $19.1 million investment to “dramatically enhance” the streetscape near the Rodin Museum and beyond.
Here are the specifics announced by local and state officials yesterday:
2100 and 2200 blocks: Outer lanes will be narrowed from two to one; bicycle-parking lane added; center islands widened; new trees, curbs, brick-edged sidewalks. Completion: Fall through 2011.
Shakespeare Park (north side of Logan Square): New plaza, paving, trees, shrubs and benches. Work to begin after next year.
1600 and 1700 blocks: New granite curbs, sidewalks, benches, and trash receptacles. Work begins next year.
Sister Cities Plaza, above (east side of Logan Square): Construction of a “pavilion” with a cafe and community space; a “children’s discovery garden with pond area; and a fountain with a globe highlighting Philadelphia’s 10 sister cities internationally. Work begins this summer, ends next year.
Rodin Museum block: Additional trees, new garden paths, benches and lighting; entryway restoration. Completion: Spring 2011.
