Businesses along 52nd Street have had a challenging couple of years, and a new initiative launched on Tuesday to help rejuvenate this vital commercial corridor just in time for the holiday season. The Enterprise Center is teaming up with Wells Fargo on their “Hope, USA” initiative to make improvements for small businesses along 52nd Street and enhance the streetscape.

Improvement projects include painting buildings, power washing sidewalks, installing holiday lighting displays, refreshing signage, and more. On Tuesday, at least 50 volunteers and tradespeople – all minority contractors – worked together on the South 200 block of 52nd Street (see photos). They engaged in activities such as electrical work, painting, carpentry, general cleanup and power washing, construction of decorative planters, and other construction work.

This joint effort will help rejuvenate this vital shopping district that experienced major setbacks in 2020 due to the pandemic and civil unrest.

“These small businesses along 52nd Street make up the heart of West Philadelphia, and they have faced countless challenges during the past year and a half,” said Della Clark, The Enterprise Center President and CEO.

“We know these minority-owned businesses have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and civil unrest in our community. It is critical we provide the investments they need to keep hope alive and chart a path forward.”

Photos by James Baum/Wells Fargo