Avenue of the Arts, Inc.

The Avenue of the Arts, Inc. (AAI) is an independent non-profit organization created in 1993 to coordinate and oversee the growth and development of the Avenue of the Arts, Philadelphia. Over the past 13 years, AAI has played a vital role in the creation of several key performing arts venues, including the Wilma Theater, the Kimmel Center, the Philadelphia Clef Club and Freedom Theatre, and has been a catalyst for the physical improvement of the district’s streetscape. AAI works closely with district businesses, arts, and entertainment entities to promote the district as a center for tourism and commercial activities.

For over a century, Broad Street has been the central artery of Philadelphia. As the city’s longest and widest street, it has served as the home to City government, major financial institutions, and the region’s most important performing arts venues. Broad Street was also a prestigious address for cultural institutions and prominent residents. After a long period of decline that began with the Depression, Broad Street has started “coming back”, first in Center City and more recently in North and South Philadelphia. AAI’s purpose is to continue promoting the redevelopment of the corridor as Philadelphia’s and the entire Delaware Valley's Main Street.

Mission

Our mission is to reinvigorate Broad Street as the arts and entertainment heart and soul of Philadelphia and the region by providing leadership for the growth of the Avenue of the Arts as a vibrant and attractive place to work, shop, live, learn and play.

Consituents

AAI’s primary constituents include current and future businesses, arts organizations, and entertainment venues on the Avenue of the Arts. However, AAI’s work is more broadly of benefit to any group or individual with a stake in the growth and development of the Avenue of the Arts. Other stakeholders include our funders, civic leaders, state and city government agencies, visitors, community residents, students, and other organizations interested in the economic and cultural vitality of the district.

Community Served

Philadelphia’s Avenue of the Arts Corridor (13th-15th Street) extends along Broad Street from Temple University (Glenwood Avenue) in North Philadelphia to Washington Avenue in South Philadelphia.

Core Activities

AAI’s serves as the catalyst for policies, programs, and projects that encourage economic and cultural development on the Avenue of the Arts and the promotion of the Avenue through marketing, beautification projects such as streetscape maintenance, and careful planning and research for sustainable growth.

Governance

A Board of Directors with 29 members, being civic, cultural, educational, and business leaders governs AAI. The Board sets policy, provides oversight, and maintains fiscal accountability. Current officers elected by the Board include:Honorable Marjorie O. Rendell, ChairFloyd Alston, Vice Chair
Kenneth Gamble, Vice ChairMichael Horsey, Treasurer

Staff

AAI has four full-time employees under the leadership of Karen Lewis, Executive Director.

External links

* [http://www.avenueofthearts.org/ Avenue of the Arts, Inc. (official site)]