Philadelphia officials on Monday presented a long-awaited redesign for Frankford Avenue, one of Northeast Philadelphia's busiest commercial corridors, promising wider sidewalks, new lighting and improved bus stops from Roosevelt Boulevard to Linden Avenue.

The $12 million project, funded through a combination of city capital budget allocations and state transportation grants, is expected to break ground in spring 2027. City planners said the redesign has been a priority for Mayfair and Holmesburg residents for more than a decade.

"Frankford Avenue is the Main Street of the Northeast," said District Council member Maria Quiñones-Sánchez at a press conference outside the Mayfair Diner. "This investment recognizes that our commercial corridors deserve the same attention as Center City."

What residents can expect

The plan calls for eight-foot sidewalks on both sides of the avenue, replacing the current four-foot walkways that force pedestrians into close proximity with traffic. New LED street lighting, ADA-compliant curb ramps and dedicated bus boarding areas are also included.

Mayfair Civic Association president Tom McNally said the group has been advocating for streetscape improvements since 2015. "Our merchants need foot traffic, and you can't have foot traffic when people don't feel safe walking," he said.

Some business owners expressed concern about construction disruptions, but city officials pledged to phase work in blocks and maintain access to storefronts throughout the project.

A public comment period runs through August 15. Residents can submit feedback at a community meeting scheduled for July 20 at Mayfair Community Center.