The Nerd Stash
Man Explains Public Bathrooms Cost Half a Million Dollars in Philadelphia, Penn…
A man gives a walk-through of new public bathroom options in Philly, Pennsylvania, and why they cost so much.
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Philadelphia's $500,000 Public Restrooms: A Solution to a Public Need or a Fiscal Flop?
Philadelphia, PA – The City of Philadelphia has unveiled its new "Philly Phlush" public restroom units, part of a pilot program aimed at addressing the city's low ranking in public bathroom accessibility. Each unit, designed for durability and public safety, comes with a hefty price tag, sparking considerable debate among residents and officials. The public bathrooms are built like "tanks," according to a local content creator, featuring anti-graffiti coating, free menstrual products, and naloxone dispensers. They are also ADA compliant and include external handwashing stations. However, the cost has been a point of contention. While the units themselves are priced between $152,665 and $168,320, the installation costs range from $218,704 to $249,802, due to the necessity of ripping up sidewalks and connecting to water and sewer lines. "This public bathroom in Philly cost over half a million dollars to purchase, install, and maintain," stated the content creator in a recent video, expressing surprise at the figure. "Half a million dollars? Does it wait for me too?" he quipped, highlighting the public's initial reaction to the expense. Maintenance is another significant factor, with each unit costing approximately $150,000 per year. This includes staffing, cleaning, restocking, and repairs, with a dedicated team visiting the units hourly. Despite the high costs, proponents argue the investment is crucial for public health and safety. "Philly ranks LOW for public bathroom access," the content creator noted, underscoring the city's need for such facilities. He drew a parallel to other essential urban infrastructure, stating, "Traffic lights can cost $500k too, and we definitely need those." Currently, two "Philly Phlush" units are operational, with a third on the way and plans for a total of five. City officials anticipate that the cost per unit should decrease as the pilot program expands. The initiative aims to provide accessible and sanitary options for residents and visitors, addressing a long-standing urban challenge.
