The initial city funding would address the most urgent costs of Philly’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of America. Some councilmembers feel it doesn’t go far enough.
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker presented City Council on Thursday with an initial $40 million funding proposal to help pay for Philadelphia’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of America next year.
“We’re addressing needs so that we can not only be prepared for 2026, but have it be an outstanding event not only for people visiting here but the people who live here,” said Councilmember Mark Squilla, who introduced the legislation as chair of City Council’s appropriations committee.
The city action comes after Gov. Josh Shapiro proposed nearly $65 million in funding last week toward the semiquincentennial. In his annual budget address, Shapiro urged lawmakers to provide millions needed to ensure that the state where the country was founded is properly prepared for the national milestone. The split state legislature has until June 30 to pass the budget.
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