Despite the growing interest and economic opportunity of vending, multiple barriers limit accessibility in Philadelphia. For example, successful markets require a strong community partner. Day and night markets are increasingly expensive for community organizations to afford. Illegal markets pop-up next to legitimate ones. Street vending is prohibited in many areas across the city. Vending past midnight is prohibited citywide. Likewise, vending in streets, sidewalks, and parks is difficult and costly.

Thus, the City of Philadelphia is seeking clarity on best practices and market model viability, as well as identification of underutilized sites that could support new vending markets.

The City has a demonstrated need to develop a menu of market models that analyze feasibility, cost, program structure, and best practices for different land use types. For example, what are the pros and cons for hosting markets on private land vs. public land?  The City seeks ULI’s assistance to further analyze conditions for vending market success.

The City’s long-term goal is to establish additional vending markets throughout the city that dually meet the needs of vendors and neighborhood residents, while recognizing that different communities have unique needs. Establishing a pipeline of vendors and market opportunities aligns with Mayor Parker’s vision of access to economic opportunities for all.

Finally, the City is interested in exploring viable models in other cities, such as salon suites in Atlanta, the Baltimore Farmers’ Market, the Portland Saturday Market, Portland Flea, Queens Night Market, and more.

This TAP is sponsored by the City of Philadelphia – Department of Commerce

Questions for Expert Panel*

1. Can ULI develop a menu of vending market models that analyze location, feasibility, cost, program structure, frequency, and best practices for different land use types? (ex: public vs. private land)
2. From a funding and program perspective, what is needed to establish new vending markets across the city?
3. Are there specific sites of underutilized land across Philadelphia that could be leveraged to establish markets? Especially site locations that are the least disruptive, but most beneficial, for their communities.
4. How can multiple agencies work together to streamline and implement the vending market models developed through this TAP?

*Questions subject to revisions but will be finalized prior to the sponsor briefing call and TAP dates.

Key deliverables:

1. Feasibility analysis (case studies on what works, why, and how to do it)
2. Identify specific locations (this model will work in this community, here’s why)

Panel Expertise Needed

• Public/private partnerships
• Vending Market Design, Management, or Procurement of vendors
• Zoning
• Urban planning/design
• Placemaking
• Place-based management
• Community engagement & economic development
• Public policy and/or public finance
• Small business or entrepreneur support
• Fundraising, philanthropy

Panelist Expectations

• Be available for two full days on Thursday, March 5 & Friday, March 6.
• Review extensive briefing materials provided by the sponsor.
• Join conference calls in advance of TAP for sponsor and logistic briefings.
• Actively participate in stakeholder interviews, recommendation generation, and findings presentation.
• Current ULI Member at the time of the TAP.
• Adherence to ULI Conflict of Interest policy and Code of Ethics.

Important Dates

Panelist Application Deadline | Friday, January 16, 2026

TAP Dates | March 5 – 6, 2026