Philadelphia's Portal leaving day earlier than planned

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- One of Philadelphia's most popular public art installations is preparing to leave the city.

Due to a contractor's scheduling needs, the giant Portal at City Hall will be removed Thursday, one day earlier than originally planned.

For nearly two years, the installation has given visitors a unique opportunity to interact in real time with people in communities around the world.

RELATED | Philadelphia's Portal faces October deadline as organizers search for new home

The Portal uses live video technology to connect Philadelphia with cities and countries thousands of miles away.

Organizers said they were unable to secure a new sponsor to keep the installation in Philadelphia.

The Portal first arrived in the city in 2024 as part of Philadelphia's celebrations leading up to the nation's 250th anniversary.

It was initially installed at Love Park but was later relocated to the City Hall courtyard after it was vandalized.