Old City District Information

Mission Old City District's mission is to improve Philadelphia's historic district as a place for people to meet, work, shop and live, by supplementing municipal services with maintenance, public safety, economic development and promotional programs. Old City District (OCD) was established by ordinance of Philadelphia City Council in 1998, with the support of the commercial property owners within its boundaries, and in accordance with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Municipality Authorities Act of 1945, 53 Pa. C.S. § 5601 et seq. In November, 2002, the City of Philadelphia authorized a 20-year extension, through the year 2022. OCD supplements, rather than replaces, the services of the municipal government -- helping businesses be successful, visitors to enjoy their experience here and residents to maintain a high quality of life. Neighborhood Character Old City is home to an incomparable set of U.S. historical assets. Here in America’s "most historic square mile", Independence National Historical Park is an international destination, attracting 3.6 million visitors annually. Important culturally and economically, Old City is also home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries. The neighborhood offers excellent hotels, a wide range of dining and nightlife establishments, independent retailers and a diverse mix of technology, media, professional and service organizations. Old City employers range from major institutions to solo entrepreneurs, together representing a significant segment of the regional economy. Some 8,000 residents live in historic townhouses, industrial loft apartments and new condominium properties.