Remote work ends for Philadelphia employees, keeps pandemic-era tech upgrades

PENNSYLVANIA, UNITED STATES — Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker announced that all city employees will be required to return to full-time in-office work starting July 15. This will end the city’s remote work policy, which has been in place since June 2021. 

“Employee presence at the workplace allows for more personal and productive interaction, it facilitates communication, it promotes social connections along with collaboration, innovation and inclusion,” Parker explained.

Despite the policy change, officials ensure that the digital tools and systems developed during the pandemic will persist, supporting city operations and preparing for future crises.

Cybersecurity protocols and VPNs to remain in place

“Much work still must be done remotely regardless of any specific in-office vs. remote work policy because some of OIT [Office of Innovation and Technology] is a 24/7 operation. Therefore, any of the infrastructure we put in place during the pandemic is still critical to the functioning of the office,” the spokesperson told StateScoop.

Philadelphia’s rapid development of its digital infrastructure in response to the pandemic included enhanced cybersecurity measures and the deployment of virtual private networks (VPNs). 

Despite the shift back to office-centric work, the infrastructure will continue to support the city’s capabilities to handle remote tasks and respond to any upcoming challenges that might necessitate offsite work.

U.S. cities grapple with hybrid work policies post-COVID

Philadelphia’s decision mirrors actions taken by other major U.S. cities adjusting their remote work policies. Earlier this year, Washington D.C. scaled back its remote work days, while Baltimore set a cap on the number of remote work days for city employees. 

Conversely, New York City, under Mayor Eric Adams, is expanding its remote work pilot program, allowing more flexibility for city employees.

These policy shifts reflect a balancing act between returning to pre-pandemic work norms and integrating the digital efficiencies gained during the last few years. As cities navigate these changes, the emphasis remains on adapting to new operational realities and ensuring that the workforce is prepared for any future disruptions.