Section of G-Ho street to be converted to a pedestrian plaza

The Grays Ferry Triangle at 23rd and South will grow starting in May, when a six-month pilot program will turn the north end of Grays Ferry Avenue into a pedestrian plaza, says the blog This Old City.

The decision had support of 98 percent of the immediate neighbors and Councilman Kenyatta Johnson, says the blog, which popularized the phrase “East Passyunk sneckdown” among Philly planners after one recent snowstorm:

We have every confidence that the project will be an economic boon to the many businesses flanking the triangle. Pedestrian amenities like planters, green space, seating, lighting, aesthetic improvements and programmatic events (outdoor fitness, jazz, kids activities etc.) are all planned for this important gateway to Graduate Hospital and the South Street West businesses.

The new plaza will be in front of Grace Tavern, plus newish businesses Juice!, Igloo, and the Little Theater, which surely will appreciate the extra exposure. It is scheduled to be installed by May 3rd for Plazapalooza, a yearly party by the South of South Neighbors Association.

Pedestrian improvements are all the rage these days, aren’t they? Be on the lookout for such changes – though no road closures – at 12th, Morris and Passyunk late this year.