Mayor Cherelle Parker and other Philadelphia leaders announced an anti-graffiti and highway beautification project as they prepare to welcome tourists from around the world during a busy 2026. The initiative will target what officials describe as “key transportation gateways” by removing gra ffiti and enhancing the overall landscape. “We’re going to get rid of that ugly moniker ‘Filthadelphia,'” Mayor Parker said during a Friday morning press conference. “They’re going to see something different when it comes to our city.” The initiative will focus on the following locations: 26th Street Gateway at Penrose Avenue South Street Bridge, walls, medians and on/off-ramps 30th Street Station walls, medians and ramps I-76 and I-676 interchange at 15th and 16th Streets I-76 and I-676 interchange at 6th and 8th Streets and Callowhill/Vine Streets I-76 and I-95 interchange at 2nd and 3rd Streets and Callowhill/Vine Streets CSX/Amtrak wall at Spring Garden Street Organizers revealed the project will cost around $11.5 million with $6.5 million coming from the city and the rest of the money coming from state and private funds. Philadelphia is expected to welcome over one million tourists and visitors from across the country and around the world in 2026 with several major events, including the celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday, the FIFA World Cup and the MLB All-Star Game. The CSX/Amtrak wall at Spring Garden Street is currently covered in graffiti. As part of the initiative, artist Carlos Rosa will paint a mural over it that will welcome those who are visiting Philadelphia in 2026. “It’s almost like saying thank you to the city for giving me so much opportunity as well as making people understand,” Rosa said. “This is a great city to live and be at.” Officials said crews will work to remove graffiti at the locations as soon as possible. ‘We have a graffiti zero tolerance so when we see it, we will remove it immediately so if people want to waste their spray can money, we’re coming out and moving it right away,” Carlton Williams, director of Philadelphia’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, said. Officials also said the project is meant to inspire civic pride. “Our highways serve as both literal and symbolic entryways to our city and downtown,” Mayor Parker said. “They provide a canvas through which Philadelphia can welcome the world, immediately immersing visitors in our unique urban landscape, and ultimately exciting them for their stay.” ...read more read less