On September 8, 2014, Mayor Nutter and Councilman Squilla marked the Organization of World Heritage Cities’ Solidarity Day of the World Heritage Cities by officially re-naming Walnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets as ‘World Heritage Way.’

Numerous members of Urban Engineers’ staff were able to participate in the day’s events as the ceremony took place practically at the doorstep of the firm’s Philadelphia office located at 530 Walnut Street.

This new name recognizes the presence of Independence Hall as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Philadelphia is an observer member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities and, in partnership with the Global Philadelphia Association, is pursuing full membership status.

In a private-public partnership with the City of Philadelphia, the Global Philadelphia Association is dedicated to making Philadelphia the first World Heritage City in the United States. For more information please visit theProject World Heritage City Initiative. 

In addition to the Mayor and Councilman Squilla, other officials who attended were:  Alan Greenberger, Deputy Mayor for Economic Development; B.J. Dunn, Deputy Superintendent, Independence National Historical Park; and John F. Smith, III – Chair, Global Philadelphia Association.