City Council Takes Action On Construction Sites Blocking Philly Sidewalks
By Mike Dunn
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Pedestrians who have to work their way around sidewalk-blocking construction sites in Philadelphia may soon be getting some help... in the form of better signage.
Deborah Schaaf of the pedestrian advocacy group "Feet First Philly" testified before a council committee that construction sites frequently force pedestrians into dangerous roadways:
"There have even been several instances over the past few years where the sidewalks on both sides of a block have been closed at the same time, with no alternate walkway. Philadelphia's walkability is being compromised."
So the committee approved and sent to the full council a measure that tries to improve the situation. It requires construction firms to post better signage when they block a sidewalk, including the duration of the closure, the name of person who received the closure permit and contact information.
It also places a stronger mandate on L&I to shut down a construction site that blocks a sidewalk for more than 24 hours without a permit.
Final passage of the bill is expected next week.