First citywide block-by-block clean up in the books

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — After completing a citywide block-by-block clean up in Philadelphia Wednesday, officials say it will now become a twice-yearly routine.

“This is the largest quality of life undertaking in this city’s history,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker.

Parker says 12 city departments worked together not only to clean every residential block, commercial corridor and alley in the city, but to tackle vacant lots, derelict buildings, abandoned cars, rutted roads, clogged drains, and city facilities.

Parker also unveiled new public trash and recycling cans in hopes of preventing litter.

“Our Clean and Green Initiative is central to what we want to achieve for every resident in every neighborhood,” she said.

Councilmember Brian O’Neill said he had never seen an effort like this in his 45 years in office.

“It was remarkable. It was miraculous, actually,” he said.

Carlton Williams, director of Clean and Green Initiatives, says year-round residential cleaning, with crews devoted to each council district, begins Sept. 16. A second citywide effort is scheduled for late fall.