Oval+ is a groundbreaking series of temporary urban interventions that transformed Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway into an accessible, vibrant, and pedestrian-focused public space. Over three consecutive summers (2017–2019), PORT collaborated with the Fairmount Park Conservancy and Philadelphia Parks and Recreation to explore the Parkway’s potential as a civic hub through reusable and modifiable designs.

As a public realm design practice, PORT utilized short-term activations to instantly transform underused city-owned land, creating excitement for what could be. Moving away from the wasteful pop-up park model, Oval+ introduced temporary installations that were both adaptable and impactful, building momentum and community support for the Parkway’s permanent reconfiguration. These activations included over-scaled bespoke urban furnishings, vibrant ground-painted graphics, interactive programming, and participatory events. The designs  elevated public imagination for the Parkway, demonstrating how it could better serve Philadelphia’s residents as a place devoted to civic life.

The installations succeeded in reducing vehicular dominance, fostering equitable pedestrian and cyclist access, and introducing dynamic new programming across the Parkway. Public engagement efforts, including surveys, workshops, and collaborations with academic partners, revealed overwhelming support for these transformations, with many participants advocating for the changes to become permanent.