🎶 Avenue of the Arts to begin 10-block revamp

Rocky To Be Permanent Fixture at Art Museum Entrance

After a years-long squabble, the Philadelphia Art Commission agreed to return the loaner replica Rocky Balboa statue currently at the Philadelphia Art Museum’s east entrance to Sylvester Stallone. The original at the bottom will be brought up the steps and displayed in its stead. The actor commissioned the original statue for the 1982 film “Rocky III". Considering the move could cost taxpayers at least $150,000, I officially have Rocky-fatigue and am over it. [Billy Penn]

• Should we keep a Rocky statue at the art museum at all? Should we add more throughout the city? Let me know your thoughts.

City To Reopen Bus Terminal by May 1

Internal demolition is complete inside the Filbert Street bus terminal, propelling plans to reopen the station ahead of the FIFA World Cup forward. The building will have new bathrooms, upgraded lighting, and a mural. [CBS Philly]

• Related: Since the initial closure of the terminal in 2023, curbside service in Northern Liberties has been a headache for residents, business owners, and commuters. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

Wanamaker Building Transformation Gets the Green Light

Along the Market East corridor, the planned reuse of the former Macy's department store is making headway after the Philadelphia Historical Commission approved changes to the building. The design divides the ground floor into individual retail spaces and adds new entrances, along with a rooftop deck and pool. [Hidden City]

Avenue of the Arts to Prioritize a Greener, Safer South Broad

After a ceremonial groundbreaking yesterday, construction for the first phase of the redesign will begin on Jan. 30 and is estimated to conclude in June. No closures are expected along the 10-block stretch of South Broad Street as a new raised median with greenery and public art is added to the area. [Axios]

• Related: While one arts corridor begins a new chapter, we take a look back at South Street’s legacy as a hub for entertainment. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

If you have some time off in observation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, why not commemorate the civil rights activist at events across the city? Here are some ways to give back, learn, and celebrate over the long weekend.

African American Museum in Philadelphia

Jan. 17 through 19

AAMP will host special programming throughout Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend, along with free and reduced admission options. Activities include a film screening of “Selma,” a plant-based brunch, and a miniature mural design activation. The museum is also in need of volunteers to run the events.

Re-Entry Community Farm

Jan. 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Spend the morning out in West Philly making the neighborhood cleaner and greener. Help clean up Re-Entry Farm and the surrounding areas, then stick around for light refreshments and an explainer on environmentally conscious trash disposal.

Germantown United CDC

Jan 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join Germantown United CDC, Love Thy Hood, and several other Germantown-based organizations to clean Central Germantown’s commercial corridor and build garden beds for the neighborhood.

West Philadelphia YMCA

Jan. 19, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The YMCA is celebrating all day long with family-friendly activities. Stop by for storytime, crafts, film screenings, and service projects.

Philabundance

Jan. 19, 11 a.m.

Assist 100 individuals, nonprofits, and corporate partners in packing backpacks with meals at Philabundance’s Roxborough warehouse.

If you can’t make it out, Ensemble Arts and Philabundance are kicking off a food drive on Monday with a free Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Concert. Visit Marian Anderson Hall at 3 p.m. to catch the show and donate approved food items. There will also be donation bins located across Ensemble Arts venues until Feb. 8.

📣 If you need to prioritize some relaxation and self-care, City Cast Philly Neighbor Kay R. recommends a visit to Fabriq Spa, a queer-owned organic spa on Fabric Row in Queen Village. Visit the business for facial treatments, massages, and a variety of other services.

Thanks for the suggestion, Kay! If you become a Neighbor, not only can you shoutout your favorite business, you can also access perks like tickets to this month's members-only pasta making demo and tasting with Chef Marc Verti!