Macy's closure: Market East rebirth, renewal opportunities suggested with store closing
CENTER CITY - As the stunning news that Macy’s will leave its Center City, Philadelphia location in March sinks in, amid the sorrow, some see a chance to revitalize the Market East neighborhood.
Shoppers moving in and out of Macy’s on a brisk, early January Friday seemed aware the big retailer, an anchor on the edge of Market Street near City Hall, would go dark in March. But for Elise Rivera, the stunning news came from a reporter. She said, "It’s a place to visit. I mean people will come here and line up for all kinds of different activities that they offer. We’re not going to have that anymore. It’s kind of sad."
The loss of Macy’s is disappointing to those drawn to its home, the Wanamaker Building, for the holiday light show, its Eagle statue and pipe organ. A blanket of historic protection will cover the Eagle and organ, but a dark storefront in an already struggling East Market community is not ideal.
Iconic Philadelphia Macy's to close later this year
The iconic Philadelphia Macy's, located in the historic Wanamaker building, will be closing its doors for good sometime in March.
Clint Randall believes the moment is one to reflect on. He’s an economic analyst with Philadelphia’s Center City District and has been considering Market Street without Macy’s. He believes all is not lost, arguing creativity and much capital may lead to new tenants in the old space. Randall said, "There are lots of retail amenities that folks feel they need to leave the city to find in a suburban shopping destination. The Wanamaker Building could potentially be a place where we start to attract some of those things downtown."
Randall sees the potential for a major supermarket on the ground floor with a fitness center, cinema, even a toy store on the upper floors combined with living space. He adds, "I think Market East has the potential to combine a really vibrant and unique set of users to create a 24/7 destination."
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Many who know the neighborhood believe homelessness and addiction plaguing some in Market East must be eased for the community to thrive. Others are simply ready to move on.