The Philly Portal lives on

💌 Love Philly? So do we. Let’s be friends. Sign up for the Billy Penn newsletter today. Just when you thought a Philly underdog was down and out, this city proves there’s always time for a comeback in the final moments. The Portal, the unique art installation that allows residents to look into a circular screen and interact with people from around the globe, is staying in Philadelphia after all. It was set to leave the city today, due to its permit coming to an end and overall costs: the art piece requires $30,000 for its annual maintenance and connectivity. However, the mayor’s office has announced via social media that the Portal is indeed staying. “The Portal is staying and we’re working on a long-term solution,” Mayor Cherelle Parker announces in the video, while standing in front of the installation at City Hall while holding an American flag and wearing a big grin. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker (@