'Steppin Out Nite' earns mixed reviews

The program may continue this semester, but local merchants question whether it's worth the effort. University officials may decide to extend this fall's "Steppin' Out Nite" program into the spring, but area retailers give the effort mixed reviews up to this point. The University joined together with local retailers to sponsor Steppin' Out Nite, which was designed to improve business and safety throughout the University City area during November and December. But several retailers said the program -- which extends business hours on Wednesdays until 8 p.m. -- failed to bring any increased business. Some complained that cold weather kept customers indoors, meaning the initiative will not add business during the winter months. "I am a little reluctant to continue our participation until the weather changes," said Chae Chung, manager of Tuscany Cafe on 34th Street between Sansom and Walnut streets. "It's just too cold." The program brought the cafe no increased sales, despite their later hours. "It wasn't really worth it for us to do it," Chung said. "We're coming out about even -- with definitely no profit." And Carol Breeze, manager of The Camera Shop at 34th Street between Sansom and Walnut streets, said she did not notice any increased business since Steppin' Out Nite began. "Most of our clientele comes in before 8 p.m. anyway," she said. But Breeze said she would participate in the program again -- though she does not expect any noticeable change in business. Others retailers praised Steppin' Out Night for the security it provided, saying they noticed a difference in the number of customers in the University City area after dark. "We're really the only store open later in the evening around here," Mary Riddick, assistant manager of the Gap on 34th and Walnut streets, said. "This initiative brings more people out onto the streets, and increases safety." The program -- which began with the University-owned complex near 34th and Walnut streets requiring stores to extend their Wednesday hours -- may expand this spring to work more closely with community groups and businesses not directly affiliated with the University, said Glen Bryan, director of community relations. "We're looking at expanding the program and making it even more community-focused," he said. "The goal is to make the area more vibrant and safe." He explained that the program was designed to create a "safer corridor" throughout the area and bring more students and community members into University City to shop. The program, which resembles Center City's "Make It A Night" campaign, has not had enough time to develop yet, some retailers said. "Steppin' Out is a good idea that just needs more time to grow," Jim Wilson, manager of Classical Choice at 3736 Walnut St., said.