On March 6, 2025, the City Council of Philadelphia approved the ceremonial renaming of the 2900 block of Dauphin Street to 'James Blocker Way.' This resolution honors James Blocker, a longstanding resident of the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood and a veteran of the United States Army. After serving in the military, Blocker contributed to the construction of several schools in Philadelphia and later became an electrician at the Navy Yard. In 1974, he founded Mansion Auto Repair at 2301 N 30th Street, which grew into a multi-generational Black-owned business and a vital community hub. Mansion Auto also served as a Safe Haven Corridor for neighborhood children. The renaming commemorates Blocker's decades of service, entrepreneurship, and dedication to his neighborhood.
This decision recognizes and celebrates the legacy of a community leader whose contributions span over 48 years. Honoring James Blocker symbolizes the value Philadelphia places on local entrepreneurship, community safety, and intergenerational impact.