Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Mayor Cherelle L. Parker made a significant move by visiting Kensington, the largest open-air drug market on the East Coast, to mark her 100th day in office. This visit served as a bold statement of her commitment to bringing about change in this regional epicenter of the opioid epidemic. As she walked from the Market-Frankford Line station at Allegheny Avenue to an event at Russell Conwell Middle School, Parker confronted the stark realities of the area, with tents lining the sidewalks and people openly using drugs on the streets.
During her visit, Parker was met with cries for help from the community, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges facing Kensington. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Parker unveiled her administration’s plan to tackle public safety in the city, focusing on ambitious goals like reducing homicides to historic lows and eliminating the notorious Kensington drug market.
The comprehensive 53-page plan outlined the Parker administration’s commitment to enhancing the Police Department’s efforts, with strategies aimed at reducing violent crime, tackling quality-of-life offenses, and adding new community police officers to the force. The plan also highlighted initiatives to tackle issues like illegal ATV use, retail theft, and the permanent closure of open-air drug markets plaguing neighborhoods like Kensington.
At the event at Conwell, Parker and her top officials presented updates on various policy areas, underscoring the administration’s multi-faceted approach to addressing public safety challenges in the city. The focus of the day remained on Kensington, with plans to implement a significant law enforcement component targeting narcotics sales and drug use in the area.
The administration’s strategy for Kensington involved a five-part process, including measures to arrest individuals using illegal narcotics, remove drug users from the neighborhood, and offer diversionary services to connect them with recovery resources. The plan also emphasized community engagement, enforcement efforts, and long-term sustainability to ensure lasting positive change in Kensington.
Throughout her remarks, Parker emphasized the importance of collaboration and support from various stakeholders in achieving the administration’s goals. Despite feeling vulnerable at times, Parker remained steadfast in her commitment to building a talented team to drive progress in the city. As she continues to navigate the challenges ahead, Parker’s administration is focused on expanding access to drug treatment options, addressing homelessness, and creating a safer, more vibrant Philadelphia for all residents.
In conclusion, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s visit to Kensington and the unveiling of her administration’s public safety plan signal a renewed commitment to addressing the complex issues facing the city. With a comprehensive strategy in place and a dedicated team at her side, Parker remains determined to bring about positive change and make Philadelphia a safer, more inclusive community for everyone.