Over the next three decades the redevelopment authority significantly changed the face of Market East, with many older buildings being demolished.

The major part of the redevelopment took place in the form of four major projects: the construction of The Gallery at Market East [a 2 phased project, which included a JC Penney's (now a Burlington Coat Factory)]; the relocation of the Regional Rail lines from the above ground Reading Terminal to the underground Jefferson Station and the corresponding Center City Commuter Connection and One Reading Center (now Aramark Tower); the new United States Courthouse and Detention Facility; and the construction of the Pennsylvania Convention Center and the corresponding new Marriott Hotel, renovation of Reading Terminal and related facilities.

Several other projects were also conducted concurrently, including the renovation of the Wanamaker’s department store (now a Macy's), and PSFS Building, (now a Loews Hotel).

Though many of these projects have proven successful, there have been several exceptions, the most notable being the city's failed attempt to redevelop the parcel at the southwest corner of 8th and Market.

Along with Lit Brothers, Snellenburg's, Gimbels and Frank & Seder, the six block corridor was once home to six major department stores.

Besides the transportation and retail business, the East Market Street area also attracted business, one of the most notable being the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society (PSFS), who opened their signature headquarters on the southwest corner of 12th and Market Streets, the PSFS Building, in 1932.