New Bill Proposes Curfews on Businesses in Kensington’s Drug Market
A new bill has been introduced by City Councilmember Quetcy Lozada to address the addiction and crime crisis in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood. The bill would require certain commercial establishments and restaurants within a designated area of Kensington, including Kensington Avenue, to close between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Kensington has become the epicenter of the city’s drug crisis and is internationally known for its excessive public drug use. The neighborhood has been heavily impacted by overdose fatalities, with over 1,400 drug-related deaths citywide in 2022, an 11% increase from the previous year.
The proposal aims to gain a better understanding of the situation in Kensington and combat the crisis. Mayor Cherelle Parker praised Councilmember Lozada’s legislation, stating that it addresses the social issues, such as open-air drug markets and nuisance businesses, that deteriorate the quality of life in neighborhoods like Kensington.
This bill follows Mayor Parker’s executive order declaring a public safety emergency to tackle crime and drug addiction in the city. The mayor has assigned Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel and city partners to develop strategies to dismantle open-air drug markets like Kensington as part of her “100-Day Action Plan.” Deputy Commissioner Pedro Rosario has also been appointed to lead the Philadelphia Police Department’s public safety approach in Kensington.
In addition to the curfew proposal, Lozada’s bill is part of a package of legislation that includes requiring quarterly reports on the use of opioid antidotes by first responders and data on illegal encampments citywide.
The Parker administration is determined to address the rampant illegal drug activity and quality-of-life nuisances in Kensington. The mayor looks forward to collaborating with City Council, including Councilmember Lozada, on this important legislation.