Electronic Signs On East Market St. Put Off For Now

PHILADELPHIA-- Could a taste of Times Square come to Center City?

Not any time soon, apparently, as City Council postponed a debate on the idea, Monday.

City Councilman Frank DiCicco proposed a bill to allow electronic signage on Market Street East, which he hopes would bring that area some sorely-needed nightlife.

"Market Street from -- I'm being generous -- 11th to 6th is the dead zone after 5:30pm," said DiCicco.  "Hardly anybody's out there."

But the idea quickly infuriated activists opposed to any signage, some of who argued that electronic billboards would clash with the historic nature of that district.

DiCicco, in the end, postponed the council committee though he denies it was because of the opposition.

He says he plans to re-write the bill to ensure historic views are preserved… and he will reschedule the hearing, probably next year.

Reported by Mike Dunn, KYW Newsradio 1060.