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Council Hears Arguments For And Against Proposed Wall Billboard

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Plans for a large "wall wrap" billboard on a building that faces Vine Street Expressway prompted debate Tuesday in City Council.

The wall wrap billboard is requested by the owner of the Electric Factory building on the block bounded by 6th and 7th streets, and Callowhill and Spring Garden. Among those speaking in support was a tenant in the building, Terry Graboyes of Graboyes Commercial Window Company:

"It just adds to the excitement of both the building and the neighborhood."

Firmly opposed was Mayor Nutter's Commerce Director, Alan Greenberger, and Stephanie Kindt, attorney for the anti-blight group Scrub.

"It does definitely feel like the city skyline is for sale."

Council's Rules Committee added an amendment that would preclude tobacco or liquor ads on the wall wrap, which would face drivers on the Vine Street Expressway. The lawmakers sent the plan to the full council for a vote, possibly later this month.

Reported by Mike Dunn, KYW Newsradio 1060

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