Philadelphia Launches Graffiti Removal, Highway Projects in 2026
Philadelphia has launched the “Gateways to Philadelphia” anti-graffiti and highway beautification projects as the city prepares to welcome more than 1 million people from around the world this year. The…
Philadelphia has launched the “Gateways to Philadelphia” anti-graffiti and highway beautification projects as the city prepares to welcome more than 1 million people from around the world this year. The city is at the epicenter of the celebration of the nation's 250th birthday, the FIFA World Cup, and the MLB All-Star Game.
During a press conference on Friday, Jan. 9, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker said officials are focusing their efforts on “key transportation gateways” by removing graffiti and enhancing the city's landscape.
According to CBS Philadelphia, officials chose these areas to ensure that visitors arriving by plane, train, or car all experience the same inviting welcome.
“We're going to get rid of that ugly moniker 'Filthadelphia,'” Parker said in a statement reshared by NBC10 Philadelphia. “They're going to see something different when it comes to our city.”
The graffiti removal project will focus on the following areas:
- 26th Street Gateway at Penrose Avenue
- South Street bridge
- 30th Street Station walls, medians, and ramps
- Interstate 76 and Interstate 676 interchanges at 15th and 16th streets
- I-76 and I-676 interchanges at Sixth and Eighth streets and Callowhill and Vine streets
- I-76 and I-676 interchanges at Second and Third streets and Callowhill and Vine streets
- CSX/Amtrak wall at Spring Garden Street
NBC10 Philadelphia reported that artist Carlos Rosa will paint a mural over the graffiti on the CSX/Amtrak wall at Spring Garden Street that will welcome those arriving in Philadelphia to take part in events.
“It's almost like saying thank you to the city for giving me so much opportunity as well as making people understand,” Rosa said. “This is a great city to live and be at.”
