Penn wants to redevelop the areas surrounding the intersection of 40th and Walnut streets. To do so, it must convince the McDonald’s at that corner to relocate.
The restaurant currently satisfies a strong student desire. It is among the very few remaining late-night dining spots near campus. So before the University pressures McDonald’s to move out, it must establish an alternative.
Two years ago, the administration forced the only 24-hour option other than McDonald’s — Philly Diner — to shorten its hours in response to a shooting that occurred at the establishment.
The best way for the University to reconcile students’ demand for low-cost late-night food and the need to keep them safe is to create an on-campus solution, where Penn’s security team could provide greater oversight. Extending the hours of an existing on-campus dining facility would address both concerns.
Other universities in Philadelphia have on-campus dining options open until later at night. For example, Drexel University’s Northside Market includes a Subway that’s open until 1 a.m. every day of the week.
The popularity of the McDonald’s among Penn students shows the need for a late-night dining option — one that the University can fulfill.
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