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“With the World Cup and our nation’s semiquincentennial approaching, this project is the perfect way to show off the heart and history of our city to the world.”
Work has already begun on similar streets projects — including the reinstallation of Camac Street‘s wooden pavers.
“I’ve long thought that Philadelphia’s secret urban power is its narrow lanes and byways like Quince,” said Paul Steinke of the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia.
HAPPY PRIDE!
Set in the heart of Washington Square West, this neighborhood is an iconic LGBTQ+ community scene—complete with shopping, dining along 13th Street, and everything in between. The Art Mart features 100+ Philly-area artists and other creatives.
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A hub for the LGBTQ social scene, the Gayborhood offers many community events and celebrations!
During National Pride Month in June every year, thousands of people come to the city for the Philadelphia Pride March and Festival.
The couple opened Mediterranean-style Barbuzzo, along with the mid-century-inspired American eatery, Bud and Marilyn’s—and both spots are must-trys in Philly.
Highly acclaimed for its nightlife, the Gayborhood also features places like 254 Philadelphia.
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This year it is taking place on Sunday, June 1, 2025.Some historically significant places have been demolished only to become vacant lots after developers abandon projects.
“That was a piece of history that is now gone,” Sortman said.
She noted that the history of the neighborhood has been paved over in the past — referencing literal cement that has replaced cobblestone in many of its historic alleys and side streets.
But even those quiet nooks will soon look more like they did in the past — thanks to a $1.4 million grant.
Five streets — including sections of Quince, Irving, Manning, Hutchinson and Bonaparte — will be rehabbed with new or updated granite renovations where needed.
Originally offering LGBTQ fiction and non-fiction works, Philly Aids Thrift has expanded its selection to music, art, comics, books, and more! “The look and feel of Washington Square West has changed drastically since I’ve lived here, and I’ve been there living for 25 years now.”
She welcomes that change as long as it also honors the legacy that’s come before it.
“I’m looking at future generations who will be able to enjoy the neighborhood just like I enjoy it now,” Sortman said.
“We need to preserve them and treat them with the respect they deserve.”
“The streets, buildings — that creates the look and feel of a neighborhood. When you destroy that, what do you have anymore?” Sortman asked.
“This grant is going to do all the necessary work to bring back the beauty to each of these little streets we have nestled into our neighborhood,” she said.
More by Lauren Rowello