Reconstruction of Central Germantown’s Chelten-Greene Plaza to begin next week
PHILADELPHIA— Chelten-Greene Plaza, a key bus stop and civic space in the center of Germantown, is getting a makeover.
The City of Philadelphia is rebuilding and improving the Plaza at the northwest corner of Chelten Avenue and Greene Street. The upgrades will support the Chelten Avenue business corridor and the revitalization of Central Germantown.
“The renovations at the Plaza at Chelten and Greene are not just an investment in the nearby business district,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “They are a message to all of Germantown: we’re committed to you and your future.”
“This plaza may be small in size, but the renovations will be a big boost for the commercial corridor,” said Eighth District Council Member Cindy Bass. “This is a great example of public investment strengthening the neighborhood.”
The project will renew the space and improve the design of the approximately 35-year-old plaza. When construction is complete the plaza will feel larger, safer, and more open. The project will bring the plaza up to street level, create a new entrance to Vernon Park, upgrade the bus shelter and crosswalks, and add new lighting.
“The Upper Northwest District Plan identifies the reimagination of the Chelten-Greene Plaza as an important streetscape improvement,” said Eleanor Sharpe, executive director of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission. “This project, and the companion project at Maplewood Mall, are key steps to implement the City’s Comprehensive Plan.”
Construction will begin next week and run through October 2020. There will be periodic closures of the plaza, sidewalks, and the driveway serving the buildings on the north side of Chelten Avenue. Foot traffic will be re-routed and the northbound H and XH bus stops will be temporarily relocated.
“We are excited about the future of this plaza,” said Streets Commissioner Carlton Williams. “We’re committed to work with businesses and residents throughout the project, and we look forward to a new amenity for all of Germantown.”
The City’s Capital Budget and a grant from PennDOT will fund the project.