During COVID-19, residents and businesses have used public space in new ways. Outdoor dining, performances, and art installations increased, competing with existing uses like driving, walking, and biking. As Philadelphia reopens, the City wants to better understand how the streets and sidewalks are being used.

SmartBlockPHL will use 14 smart streetlights to collect information about pedestrian traffic, street activity, and the environment in Midtown Village. Specifically, the sensors in the streetlights will:

• Count people and objects.
• Check air quality.
• Monitor weather conditions.

Through this pilot project, the City will test ways to collect real-time data accurately and efficiently, while respecting residents' privacy. The data will guide the City's decisions on how public spaces can better accommodate many needs and uses.