City and state officials, philanthropic organizations, cultural and business leaders, neighbors and civic groups joined Center City District President and CEO Paul R. Levy and members of the public for a ribbon cutting event to celebrate the official opening of Phase 1 of the Rail Park, a $10.8 million construction project that has transformed a blighted section of the former Reading Railroad Viaduct into an elevated park with walking paths, landscaping, lighting, swinging benches, and expansive city views. The project also included the reconstruction, landscaping, and lighting of the 1300 block of Noble Street. Watch highlights of the ribbon cutting in the video above.

Urban was a catalyst for the development of the park. The firm conducted the initial concept design study in 2011 to get the project underway, and later presented multiple design options for the park. Furthering the visualization, renderings with preferences cited by stakeholders and community members were produced. Urban is thrilled to be a part of such a community-based project that will surely improve the lives and economic development for many in Philadelphia. Read more about the project over on our Excellence blog, or click on the project card below: