This fall season at Woodmere means new exhibitions and musical events, art classes, and the most mazelike straw maze we have ever had. Driving on Germantown Avenue, you may have seen that Maguire Hall looks like a construction site, and we are deep into our renovation, close to the halfway point in the project.

I'm writing to share what will be unwelcome news. Starting Sept. 15, there will be a partial, one-lane road closure on Germantown Avenue from Hampton Road to Sunset Avenue. The four-week closure, which will continue through mid-October, is driven by the need to connect the plumbing system of Maguire Hall to the main city sewer line that runs up and down Germantown Avenue. Since the 1850s, Maguire Hall has functioned with an in-ground septic system; these systems remain to this day a common feature of the houses in our neighborhood. Needless to say, a septic system is not a legal option for a public institution, and it would be terrible for the environment. During a busy day at the museum, the bathrooms are in constant use.

Woodmere's construction team is working with Philadelphia's Water Department and Streets Department to make the plumbing connection as quickly as possible and to implement a safe method of flagging and directing traffic, one lane at a time. SEPTA buses will operate as normal, although with likely delays, and ambulances and fire trucks will be prioritized. The lane closer to Maguire Hall will be closed from 7 a.m. through 3 p.m., and the farther lane will be open. Metal plates will make it possible for both lanes of traffic to move after hours.

Woodmere had hoped this work could be done over the summer, when schools are not in session, but that was not possible. Opening a main sewer line is a highly regulated, permitted, and closely monitored process. Our construction team and civil engineers initiated the conversation with the city years ago and, through a process of many steps, submitted applications to the city departments, and worked with SEPTA, as required. The engineering itself is complicated, and an important part of the process is ensuring public safety. Any business, organization, or private individual undertaking a project of this kind can do so only in partnership with the city and the timing is determined accordingly.

We apologize for the delays and inconveniences that will result. The best we can recommend is that, to the extent possible, drivers seek alternate routes. Thank you for being understanding.

William R. Valerio 

Patricia Van Burgh Allison Director and CEO

Woodmere Art Museum