Certain Center City blocks to eliminate sidewalk cleaning services.
The Center City Residents’ Association (CCRA) recently announced its decision not to renew its contract with the Center City District (CCD) for sidewalk cleaning services, effective at the end of this month. This decision comes in light of rising operational costs that would have significantly impacted the association’s budget.
In the previous fiscal year, CCRA allocated approximately ,600 for sidewalk cleaning. However, the proposed new rates threatened to increase the proportion of the organization’s budget devoted to these services from 20% to an alarming 41% by 2026. The increase prompted concerns among board members about the sustainability of the organization, as they questioned whether they could continue to fund sidewalk cleaning without jeopardizing their financial stability.
The City of Philadelphia has traditionally refrained from engaging in regular sidewalk cleaning, introducing only occasional sweeps as of late. Historically, CCRA had a long-standing agreement with CCD for sidewalk cleaning that encompassed the entire CCRA catchment area—from John F. Kennedy Boulevard to South Street and from the Schuylkill River to South Broad Street—at a favorable and subsidized rate. However, post-pandemic adjustments saw CCD reevaluate its pricing structure, attributing the increase to efforts to provide better wages for sidewalk cleaners, a rationale acknowledged by CCRA President Nathaniel Margolies.
Margolies expressed frustration over the financial burden on local neighborhood groups to maintain cleanliness, highlighting that some areas received adequate trash management without the need for additional cleaning services. Moving forward, CCRA has established a Cleanliness Committee aimed at exploring alternative cleaning providers. One potential partner is Glitter, a service currently engaged in cleaning approximately 350 blocks directly funded by residents, along with additional blocks via community grants.
In parallel to these developments, Philadelphia’s Mayor Cherelle L. Parker has prioritized making the city the cleanest large metropolis in the nation. Her administration has taken steps to enhance trash collection and address illegal dumping, including the recent implementation of a twice-weekly trash pickup schedule in South Philadelphia and Center City, with plans to expand to North Philadelphia soon. While some residents have praised this initiative for reducing trash accumulation, others have voiced concerns regarding potential increases in litter and trash overflow.
The city’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives has yet to respond to inquiries related to these issues. Observers have noted the need for a balanced approach to cleanliness responsibilities between the city and its residents. As CCRA navigates this transition regarding sidewalk cleanliness, community advocacy will be essential in fostering cooperative efforts with city officials, local businesses, and residents alike.
