Philadelphia’s Market East neighborhood has long been a focal point of the city, evolving from a vibrant shopping district to a struggling corridor in need of revitalization. For a time, the Sixers’ proposed arena at 10th & Market seemed poised to inject new energy into the area. However, with the team’s recent decision to remain in the South Philly Sports Complex, the future of Market East is once again uncertain.

Despite this, discussions around Market East’s future are far from over. The Sixers, now partnering with Comcast, have expressed their commitment to revitalizing the area, though no plans have been announced. At the same time, the neighborhood faces new challenges, including the departure of Macy’s, declining retail, and blocks of underutilized space. With thousands of daily passersby, transit connections, and a location in Center City, the potential is undeniable.

What happens next at Market East could define a new chapter for Philadelphia. Will it be a hub for commerce, culture, or community gathering? Could it become a mixed-use destination that breathes life into the city’s core? As city leaders, developers, and the public consider the possibilities, one thing is clear—Market East’s story is far from over.

This year’s Edmund N. Bacon Urban Design Awards celebrates the power of fresh ideas by inviting students to reimagine one of Market East’s most infamous sites—The Disney Hole at 8th & Market. Once a symbol of unfulfilled potential, this space now serves as a blank canvas for visionary thinking, proving that bold, creative solutions can breathe new life into even the most overlooked corners of a city. As we honor Vishaan Chakrabarti and the next generation of designers, we’re reminded that the future of urban spaces isn’t just about what’s been lost—it’s about what we have the courage to build next.