PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The fashion district of Philadelphia will soon enforce an afternoon curfew for those under the age of 18.
Officials say that starting Monday after 2 p.m., minors will not be able to go to the outlets without an adult over the age of 23
Because of this, Philadelphia police are standing by outside the Fashion District at 9th Street and Market Street Friday night.
The new curfew comes in response to recent riots involving dozens of unaccompanied youth.
Just last week, Philadelphia police had to disperse large gatherings of youth in the area.
“There’s so much fighting, they just run over this wall here and the police have to come in and clear them out,” noted Fairmount’s Jacob Kramer.
A similar curfew was previously in place in the Fashion District, but only on weekends. Now it is daily.
Fashion District officials say anyone who appears to be 18 or under can be approached by security or law enforcement to provide proof of age.
Employees under the age of 18 arriving for work after 2pm will be asked to provide identification showing where they are employed. This does not affect their ability to work at the Center during these times.
Action News spoke to employees and buyers about how they felt about the changes.
“With the flash mobs and violence escalating, I would agree that something needs to be done,” said Center City’s William Reid. “Whether it means cutting curfews or whatever it is, but yes, action needs to be taken.”
“I think they should be able to come here and be respectful of other people, if they do that then it’s fine. If they’re being disrespectful, it’s about time they didn’t come downtown,” said Alfred Capps of Southwest Philadelphia.
Some teens said they didn’t mind asking a parent to go to the district with them.
“You have to ask your parents if you can go with your friends, or you can ask both of them and go together,” said Payton White, from Southwest Philadelphia.
The Southeast Youth Athletic Association’s Easter Carnival in South Philadelphia instituted a similar policy after large crowds caused problems. Now no one under 18 is allowed in without an adult.
Officials on the carnival’s Facebook page said they would increase private security and have more police patrolling the site.
Fashion District officials noted that they have the city’s full support in implementing this new policy.
The curfew will remain in effect until further notice.