Avenue of the Arts — also known as South Broad Street — is set to undergo a major transformation over the next few years.

The $150 million “AveArts 2.0” project, which officials said will unfold over the next decade, will reshape the one-mile stretch from City Hall to Washington Avenue into a “pedestrian-focused public realm.”

“This is Philadelphia claiming its future,” Chair of the Avenue of the Arts, Inc., board Carl Dranoff shared in a news release. “Cities that leadthe world invest boldly in culture, public space, andgreening. With AveArts 2.0,theAvenue of the Arts will become one of those rare, magical streets theworld talks about.”

Gensler, the global architecture and planning firm, in collaboration with OJB, alandscape and urban design practice, envisions a green, pedestrian-centric boulevard featuring landscaped medians, seating, enhanced lighting, outdoor performance spaces, rotating public art, and sculptural elements.

“By prioritizing people, this transformation turns infrastructure into experience,” said OliverSchaper, principal at Gensler and lead designer for the project. “It’s a model for howcultural corridors can support climate resilience, economic vitality, and everyday life in a21st-century city.”

Credit: OJB

Credit: OJB

Credit: OJB

33 years ago, the Avenue of the Arts was established by Former Mayor Ed Rendell to transform what was considered a declining office corridor into a vibrant performing arts district.

Today, it is one of the largest performing arts districts in the U.S. by seat count, second only to Broadway, city officials shared.

Valued at $4.4 billion, the Avenue of the Arts is home to renowned organizations such as the Philadelphia Orchestra and schools such as the Rock School of Dance, and features an extensive public art collection and historic and modern architecture.

City officials shared that the first phase of the 10-year project will begin on the block between Spruce and Pine streets, in front of the Kimmel Center.

Construction will begin January 30, 2026, and is expected to be completed by June 2026, just in time for Philadelphia’s major 2026 events.

This part of the construction will include a raised, landscapedmedian with native trees and plantings, a rainwater-collection cistern, and lighting.