Nutter envisions a Philly line of goods

If Michael Nutter's mayoral campaign doesn't work out, maybe he has a future in retail.

Buried in the former councilman's detailed budget policy paper - which will be formally released today - is an interesting notion: a "Philly Gear" apparel line, to be sold online and at city-operated gift stores.

Modeled on Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg's ambitious New York City Store, Nutter's plan predicts that Philly-branded products could earn the cash-strapped city up to $1 million in annual revenue.

"It's a way of instilling a certain sense of pride and respect. We can make a statement at the same time that we're generating new revenues for the City of Philadelphia," Nutter said.

It's hardly the cure for City Hall's budget woes, Nutter said, but it could help. Bloomberg believes that New York City's operation could earn up to $20 million annually.

Nutter isn't talking just hats and T-shirts, either.

"Street signs, fire hydrants, there's all kinds of novelty things you can do," Nutter said.

"We should have a restaurant on the first floor of City Hall. This is the sort of innovation we need."