Congressman Brendan Boyle Testifies Before Philadelphia City Council on Semiquincentennial Preparations

PHILADELPHIA, PA - Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) testified at a field hearing hosted by the Philadelphia City Council to discuss preparations for the upcoming Semiquincentennial in 2026.

"Today's hearing is about more than the next twenty-four months," said Congressman Boyle. "It's about the next twenty-four years and making investments in our city that will bear fruit for decades to come."

During his testimony, Congressman Boyle emphasized his ongoing efforts to secure significant new investments for Philadelphia's Historic District and called for additional federal support, including increased funding for Independence National Historical Park (INHP).

The Congressman highlighted nearly $3 million in federal funding he has already secured for community projects in the Historic District, including:

• New lighting for Franklin Square Park
• Streetscape improvements near Sixth and Race Streets
• A redesigned plaza at Second and Market Streets

Congressman Boyle also underscored his bipartisan legislation to hold a historic ceremonial session of Congress at INHP in July 2026. This would be only the third time in U.S. history that Congress has convened outside of Washington, D.C., underscoring Philadelphia's pivotal role in the nation's founding.

The Semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, represents a unique opportunity to showcase Philadelphia's historic significance on both national and global stages. Congressman Boyle has led efforts within the regional congressional delegation to advocate for increased National Park Service funding for INHP to ensure the site can meet the demands of this historic event and beyond.

(Click to download photo.)

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