Legislation aims to address issues in Philadelphia’s troubled neighborhood

A new bill passed by Philadelphia’s city council is set to impose a curfew on certain businesses in Kensington, aligning with Mayor Cherelle Parker’s commitment to tackling challenges in one of the city’s most troubled areas.

The legislation targets approximately a dozen small stores, smoke shops, and take-out restaurants situated along the Kensington Corridor, mandating closure by 11 p.m. and prohibiting reopening until 6 a.m. the next day.

Scope of Impact

Businesses holding liquor licenses will be exempt from the curfew. However, establishments operating late into the night along Kensington Avenue, D Street, East Lehigh Avenue, East Tioga Street, and Frankford Avenue will be subject to compliance, with potential fines of up to $500 per day for violations.

Rationale Behind the Curfew

City Councilmember Jim Harrity underscored the necessity of the curfew, emphasizing its role in affording Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel essential breathing room as he devises comprehensive strategies to restore order to Kensington’s troubled streets.

They congregate around these places because the lights are on, they have a reason to be there, remarked Councilmember Harrity. They don’t have a reason to stand out in front of an empty store at 2 in the morning.

Community Responses

While some shop owners expressed reservations about the proposed curfew, citing potential negative impacts on their businesses, others remain skeptical about its efficacy in addressing the neighborhood’s deep-rooted issues.

It’s Kensington, that’s what they do, commented Rasheed Wood, reflecting a sentiment among some residents who doubt the curfew’s ability

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