of Philadelphia Caring of Business (PHL TCB) Clean Corridors Program expanded the Commerce Department’s cleanup efforts from 49 commercial corridors to 129 across the city. TCB funds community-based nonprofits to sweep sidewalks and remove litter within neighborhood commercial corridors.
PHL TCB invests in people and small businesses by creating employment opportunities for residents and keeping Philadelphia’s neighborhood shopping corridors clean. More than 260 TCB Cleanup Ambassadors are citywide champions of waste reduction and environmental stewardship.The program is part of a larger effort by Department of Commerce to improve and promote vibrant trade corridors.
In this series, we’re highlighting the stories of neighborhood organizations funded by the program to keep shopping areas clean. of East Falls Development Corporation in the East Falls neighborhood offers regular indoor cleaning East Falls shopping districts, such as Ridge Avenue, Midvale Avenue and River Road.
Here’s what Michelle Feldman (MF) had to say about what the PHL TCB program means to the organization and the areas they serve.
What is the mission of your nonprofit?
MF: The East Falls Community Development Organization supports community-based economic development through small business technical assistance and neighborhood planning that leads to capital investment in our area.
What services does your nonprofit provide to Philadelphia businesses and residents? What areas is the organization dedicated to serving?
MF: We focus on revitalizing two major commercial corridors – Ridge-Midvale and Conrad Street. Our TCB team helps keep our corridors clean and greenWHEREAS businesses continue to do their amazing work. Wand also offer one by one business consulting to support businesses in need TECHNICAL support. Great news! our East Falls Business association is in JOBS, inI have initiate our leadership program, and we will to start membership program in 2025 to expand meaningful connections.
Neighborhood planning is a key part of our work and we are constantly striving to improve community infrastructure and quality of life. Two important studies have already been completed—one focusing on transportation and the other on flooding and mitigation. We are currently preparing studies that will improve our neighborhood streetscapes, including improvements to trees, trash cans, lighting and overall street design, providing a more vibrant and sustainable environment for all residents.
How many local residents are employed through the TCB program to keep the streets clean in the areas you serve?
MF: There are three TCB team members serving East Falls. A supervisor and two cleaning ambassadors work 5 days a week to keep our corridors clean.
How does the TCB program help increase your capacity to do the work you do?
MF: With the TCB crew, we are gaining a deeper understanding of our community and building strong, trusted relationships with East Falls residents and businesses. Together, we are creating meaningful change and shaping a vibrant future for the neighborhood.
What does your organization value to be part of the TCB program?
MF: We appreciate TCB helping us achieve a safer, healthier and more explorable environment for families throughout East Falls. We are grateful for additional Department of Commerce programs that have helped our commercial corridors, such as the Store Improvement Program, the Store Loan Forgiveness Program, and the Business Security Camera Program.
What have been some of the highlights for your organization since joining the program? Any key moments or stories that stand out to you?
MF: Since joining the amazing program TCB, there are two achievements I would like to highlight. First, we have strengthened our partnerships with local business owners. Additionally, our work with Laurel Hill Cemetery has been really impactful—one of our TCB ambassadors is dedicated to keeping the cemetery clean as well. The daily efforts of the TCB team leave a lasting impression on business owners and residents alike, underscoring the importance of working together to keep Philadelphia clean and vibrant every day.
Since PHL TCB started, how would you describe the change in the hallways you clean?
MF: The transformation in the area is remarkable—residents and business owners are now more conscientious about managing their waste, leading to cleaner sidewalks, less street litter, and a safer environment for both children and animals.
Anything else you’d like to share?
MF: Come to East Falls for all we have to offer! Both the landscape and the corridors provide a great place to hang out and shop locally. We have many live music festivals, vendor events and space to have a good time here. Our website is disocvereastfalls.org to view our business directory and events throughout the year.