Policy
‘Ring It On’ initiative gives Philly neighborhoods a stake in the semiquincentennial
Elected officials, 2026 stakeholders and Gritty were on hand on Wednesday to introduce a citywide program designed to involve all Philadelphia neighborhoods in the semiquincentennial.
Key members of the City of Philadelphia’s semiquincentennial efforts, including Michael Newmuis, 2026 Director for the City of Philadelphia, seen here ringing the bell, were on hand to announce the “Ring It On!” initiative. Greg Salisbury
A block-party vibe buttressed by water ice, hoagies, a DJ spinning summertime classics – and an expansive view overlooking Independence Mall – served as the backdrop for the launch on Wednesday of “Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration,” a new, wide-ranging initiative that aims to ensure that neighborhoods and business improvement districts across Philadelphia will be active participants in and beneficiaries of the semiquincentennial celebration next year.
2026 Director for the City of Philadelphia Michael Newmuis emceed a procession of speakers, including Mayor Cherelle Parker, City Council president Kenyatta Johnson, City Representative Jazelle Jones and Acting Commerce Director Karen Fegely, to the stage to explain how the initiative, in his words, is “an opportunity to strengthen neighborhoods, amplify culture and spark economic opportunity that reaches every corner of our great city.”
In her comments, Parker focused on the importance of using the city’s semiquincentennial celebration as a catalyst for economic growth and community engagement throughout the city. “My administration is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for residents across our great city to enjoy this historic milestone, while sharing in the economic, cultural, and civic benefits of 2026,” she said. “With over $100 million invested and partnerships spanning more than 60 community and cultural organizations, we’re ensuring that everyone – residents and visitors alike – can see, touch, and feel the vibrancy of America’s 250th anniversary through stunning public art, unforgettable events and much more.”
In addition to engagement incentives like a public calendar highlighting “Ring It On” events, a block party swag program – complete with a contest that will award 25 block beautification winners with city-funded parties – and a neighborhood tour program, there will be an art installation series called “Bells Across PA.”
The program, which is reminiscent of the Philadelphia 2016 Host Committee for the Democratic National Convention’s Donkeys Around Town program, will partner with the nonprofit America250PA, neighborhoods and Mural Arts Program to create 20 uniquely neighborhood-specific Liberty Bells for display.
The primary “Ring It On” economic driver is an effort by the city’s Commerce Department to work with 20 commercial corridors on everything from beautification projects to business growth and increased investment and commercial development.
One of the organizations that will be taking advantage of the Commerce Department’s offerings is the Lancaster Avenue 21st Century Business Association CDC in West Philadelphia. Director of Operations and Corridor Management Jacqueline Williams, who also spoke at the event, told City & State that the inclusivity of “Ring It On” will be a game-changer for neighborhoods outside Center City.
Williams, who noted that her organization has already begun planning and outreach efforts that include a food truck stroll and working with businesses to make them more tourist-friendly, emphasized how the program provides an opportunity for neighborhoods to shine. “Our businesses mean something to the community – and now we get to bring our businesses to the world.”
For Newmuis, the ability to leverage part of Philadelphia 2026’s $100 million-plus budget to change the trajectory of communities like West Philadelphia is part of the mandate to have the ripple effects of the city’s semiquincentennial events, including everything from the 250th anniversary to the MLB All-Star Game to the FIFA World Cup, last for years to come.
“So much about today's announcements (revolve around) how do we make investments to help small businesses gain long-term economic success? That's why we’re going door-to-door across these neighborhoods to make beautification schemes, to make treatments that will drive increased visitation,” he told City & State. “We’re going to see how we can ensure that over the long term, well after 2026, these businesses can thrive through their economic performance.”