The Department of Commerce is following updates on the I-95 fire and partial highway collapse from the Philadelphia Police Department, Philadelphia Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Management to advise businesses on current guidance. Multiple City and state agencies are responding to address impacts to residents and businesses in the area.  The City is sharing details as they become available including current guidance and detour routes for businesses to access their operations.

Our Office of Businesses Services has been out in the field meeting with businesses to provide one-on-one assistance, and to hear their concerns. Philadelphia Police Department is providing on-site access to local businesses near the I-95 bridge collapse for all employees, customers, and deliveries. Some businesses expressed the need to ensure customers are aware that their storefronts are open in the area despite the detour routes.

We are encouraging residents to shop small and support businesses in the area impacted by the I-95 fire and partial highway collapse. The impacted area includes Bridesburg, Frankford, Tacony, Port Richmond neighborhoods at this time. Businesses are open in the area and across the city. Here are five ways to support local businesses in the area and throughout the city:

Shop with businesses in commercial areas

Every local dollar can make a lasting impact in the lives of business owners and their families.  Neighborhood businesses provide jobs, goods and services for residents. Check out commercial corridors in the area which are anchors for communities across the city. From Tacony, Frankford Valley to Port Richmond, visit these shopping districts for sales, cupcakes, ice cream and family shopping.  When you shop small, you also support the health of our local environments, while stimulating the local economy.

Share widely that businesses are open

Having a business in an impacted area can be stressful for business owners and their families who rely on the weekly revenue generated. If you are not able to make purchases at this time from the shops in the area, consider sharing their posts on social media or encourage your friends and family to support them if they can.

Word-of-mouth can make a difference. Tag #ShopPHL when you find your favorite businesses in Philadelphia and share them along. Businesses in the area and throughout the city can help residents enjoy the cool summer breeze.

Dine out

Philadelphia’s diverse restaurants not only help to power the local economy, but they also give the city’s neighborhoods their distinct character. Have a special meal with your family and friends to celebrate the summer! Philadelphia is diverse with delicious cultural cuisines and vibrant attractions. There are many commercial areas to explore. Purchase a gift card for a friend, family members, or yourself to spread your support to multiple neighborhood businesses in the area.

Order food to go

Most restaurants across the city offer delivery, curbside pick-up, and takeout options. Check in with businesses in the area to try out a new cuisine or restaurant this summer and throughout the year. Try to tip restaurant staff and delivery people generously and consider ordering directly from the restaurant.

Engage with local businesses

Businesses are showing support to one another or posting information on social media about changes in service or hours of operation based on the I-95 temporary closure. Your favorite business may not be on social media, however, call them and see if their operation has been impacted then let your friends know on social media platforms. Let’s continue to support our local businesses, that provide critical goods, jobs and services in our city.