In this final phase of the study, the design team is looking at how the lanes are drawn—and how they are actually used—on the street. The new survey will collect feedback from residents and road users about three possible road designs.

The three designs show different configurations of road paint and signals. Survey responders should consider factors like parking, street crossings, bike lanes, and pedestrian paths.

The street runs between West Passyunk and Washington Avenues, a length of about 1.2 miles. Above 25th Street is an active railroad, elevated by a viaduct. The declining condition of the viaduct has prevented road work to 25th Street. Once the condition of the overhead viaduct is improved then the roadway can be reopened for use.

The brief survey is available online: https://www.phila2035.org/25thstreet-survey

In April 2022, project team members will table at locations near 25th Street. The schedule is posted online, here: www.phila2035.org/25thstreet.

These tabling events are opportunities for residents and road users to fill out a paper survey. They can also talk directly with the project team.

Feedback can also be submitted by calling (215) 395-4657 and leaving a voice message.

This community engagement will inform improvements to the street.

Questions? Contact the project manager:

Jonathan Goins: Jonathan.Goins@phila.gov

What is Zoning?

Zoning is a set of rules for new buildings and major changes to existing buildings. Zoning rules control the size and shape of buildings and what they can be used for.

Watch a short introduction to zoning.

Where are Changes Proposed?

The City Planning Commission proposes changes to the zoning rules

Why are Changes Proposed?

PCPC is working to update zoning in neighborhoods throughout the city. Zoning has not changed in most of northern Germantown for over forty years. The proposed changes meet community goals for how the neighborhoods should grow. Your neighbors helped define these goals in the Upper Northwest District Plan.

What are the Proposed Changes?

View and download maps at the Germantown North Zoning Remapping page.

The proposal replaces some zoning districts with new ones. These changes will:

• Support Germantown Avenue with new jobs and homes;
• Correct the zoning residential areas to match existing buildings;
• Limit housing in areas that flood along Belfield Avenue;

Overlay Zoning Districts create special zoning rules for a specific area. PCPC is also proposing an Overlay Zoning District for buildings that face Germantown Avenue. The proposed Overlay will:

• Allow the City Planning Commission to review and approve the appearance of new buildings;
• Require new buildings with 10 or more apartments or condos to have a parking lot or a garage;
• Remove the requirement for a commercial use on the first floor for historic buildings;
• Prevent some new car-oriented businesses from opening

How Can I Participate and Learn More?

Many buildings and sites on Germantown Avenue are listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places. These buildings cannot be demolished or changed without the approval of the Philadelphia Historical Commission.

View a map of protected properties

Who is Involved in the Rezoning Process?

Please visit the Remapping Web Site to participate, or contact Ian Hegarty: 215-683-4672 ian.hegarty@phila.gov.

PCPC will share information and collect input. We will reach people a variety of ways during a four-week Virtual Open House.

• We will record videos and create printable maps to explain the proposed changes and the reasons behind them
• We will distribute fact sheets to neighborhood organizations
• We will make an online interactive map

During our Virtual Open House, we are committed to listening to residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. PCPC will revise the proposal to meet community needs and propose compromises to resolve disagreement.

The 25th Street Transportation Safety Study will look at ways to improve traffic and road conditions along 25th Street. The study will cover the area from Washington Avenue to Passyunk Avenue.

The project will partner with nearby residents and businesses to propose short- and long-term safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. The Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC) and Michael Baker Intl., a transportation planning firm, will guide the study and engagement. PCPC will have a steering committee of community and city representatives. The Study will take 12-18 months. It will produce a report with new intersection designs and proposed safety improvements for the street. ​ The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission funded this study. Funds came from the Transportation and Community Development Initiative (TCDI). ​ For more information, visit the project site, here.

To take the Safety Survey, click here.

For more information, contact:

Jonathan Goins,

South District Planner

Jonathan.Goins@phila.gov

Too many stores were built over time. More people are shopping online. And now, growing inequality has left consumers with too little spending money after paying their bills. The pandemic and resulting restrictions have only accelerated these trends. Some stores are closing on commercial streets and in shopping centers.

Store vacancies mean fewer jobs and less tax revenue for the City. Vacancies also mean less rent money that owners have to maintain shopping centers. Vacant, unmaintained shopping centers become an eyesore for nearby businesses and communities.

We know that retail won’t be the same moving forward, but we can make a plan for improving retail areas throughout the city.

Recommendations

How do we fix shopping centers so that the stores in them can thrive? The City Planning Commission took a look at strip malls and shopping centers in Philadelphia and around the country to develop some ideas.

1. Make them safer. Reduce conflicts between cars and pedestrians in the parking lot. Build walkways through the parking lot and separate them from traffic with trees and shrubs. Reduce the conflicts between cars in the lot and cars on the roads next to them.
2. Make them more welcoming. Turn areas outside store entrances into public open space that connects the street to the store. Add transit stops and shuttle service so people without a car can more easily visit.
3. Make them more active. Allowing apartments, offices, and hotels will add more life – and more shoppers – to the centers. Adding small parks, benches, and outdoor dining will create spaces for people to stay instead of grab-and-go.
4. Stop overbuilding parking. Shopping centers almost never use all the parking they are forced to build. Let them build less.
5. Make them greener. Trees and other plants separate pedestrians from cars, offer shade, and soak up stormwater.
6. Create “Main Streets.” Orienting buildings towards walkways, drive aisles, and green spaces can make shoppers feel like they are downtown.
7. Allow medium-sized retail warehouses and smaller industrial businesses in some places. It can be convenient to shop online and pick up at a nearby shopping center.
8. Offer developers and owners of shopping centers incentives to change. This can be done through zoning changes, coordinating with public investments, and City programs for businesses.
9. Support small and local businesses as they adapt to the changing retail market, allowing them to stay in an upgraded shopping center. Many small businesses are minority and immigrant owned, serving vital services to communities and providing jobs for residents.

What’s Next? Stakeholders can:

• Work with City Council and partner agencies to update the zoning and parking code.
• Reach out to shopping center owners and business groups that may want to work together with the City to improve areas within and around shopping centers and strip malls.
• Get the word out to residents and community groups so they can learn about and push good design principles.

To learn more, read the full report and executive summary. You may also reach out to PCPC at:

Greg Waldman, AICP gregory.waldman@phila.gov 215.683.4666

The studies were funded by a grant from the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC).

• Case Studies – Rail stations and surrounding neighborhoods in Wilmington, DE, New Brunswick NJ, and Jamaica, Queens, NY were evaluated for potential lessons applicable to the North Philadelphia Station Area.
• Real Estate Market Assessment – Various types of real estate were given a high-level assessment to the year 2040, considering the influence of a consolidated regional rail station as proposed in the North District Plan.
• Transportation Conditions and Needs Assessment – Existing service and safety conditions were summarized for train, subway, bus, pedestrian, vehicle, and bicycle travel and facilities. Potential future conditions were explored, future needs identified, and recommendations offered for next steps.

Follow-Up to North District Plan ‘Focus Area’

The community and City identified this area as a focus area in the Philadelphia2035 North District Plan (2018). It’s a focus area because it is a public transportation hub with service from SEPTA Regional Rail and Amtrak trains, the Broad Street Line, and several bus routes. This reduces the need for driving, car ownership, and parking lots, and encourages buildings to be larger and closer to each other. City planners call this “transit-oriented development.”

The studies explored issues related to District Plan recommendations. North District Plan recommendations for the Focus Area include:

• Guide the emerging regional center at North Philadelphia Station to develop local job-generating investments while preserving residents’ right to benefit from development.
• Develop a transportation plan for North Philadelphia Station to create efficient and integrated Amtrak, NJ Transit, SEPTA regional rail, and Broad Street Line (BSL) services.
• Improve the safety, usability, and appearance of North Philadelphia Station

Click here for a link to a recorded presentation on these reports.

What’s Next?

In the short-term, recommendations from the Transportation Conditions and Needs Assessment can help keep the area on track:

• Better signs for stations
• Improved ADA and pedestrian access to stations
• Improved maintenance and repairs at stations
• Safety improvements for walking, biking, and driving near the stations
• Study of potential impacts of more frequent bus, train, or subway service
• Improved bike routes and bike parking
• Traffic, pedestrian, and bike counts
• Guidelines for active public spaces, larger buildings near train and subway stops, and a safe walking environment.

Have thoughts or comments on the North Philadelphia Station Area or on the linked reports?

Email:

John Haak

,,john.haak@phila.gov

• What is a Registered Community Organization (RCO)?
• How does zoning work?
• What projects get Civic Design Review?
• How can I get involved?

We have the answers!

The Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC) has started a series of videos to answer these common questions and more. Development is a complicated process with many stakeholders and different city agencies. These videos help explain how property owners can get permits and how Philadelphians can get involved.

These short videos (around ten minutes or less), with lots of graphics, break down the complicated process of development into small bites that are easy watch and understand. The first two videos talk about Registered Community Organizations (RCO) and their role in the development process. Future videos will present best practices and tips for RCOs. Another video gives a basic explanation on zoning and how it guides development. Future videos will give more information on zoning, explain the Civic Design Review Process and explain how to read site and building plans.

Intro to RCOs:

The RCO Processes:

Zoning 101

We hope that you find these videos helpful and we will add more videos as they are produced. If you have ideas for future videos, please email us at planning@phila.gov.

The Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC) is working with community groups to change zoning rules in Germantown. We want your input on these updates.

What is Zoning?

Zoning is a set of rules for new buildings and major changes to existing buildings. Zoning rules control the size and shape of buildings and what they can be used for.

Where are Changes Proposed?

Changes to the zoning rules are proposed in northern Germantown, roughly from Rittenhouse Street to Johnson Street between Wissahickon and Chew Avenues.

Why are Changes Proposed?

PCPC is working to update zoning in neighborhoods throughout the city. Zoning has not been updated in the Germantown area for more than four decades. The new proposed changes meet community goals for how the neighborhoods should grow. Your neighbors helped to define these goals in the Upper Northwest District Plan in 2018.

What are the Proposed Changes?

Some zoning districts will be replaced with new ones. These changes will:

• Reinforce Germantown Avenue with new jobs and homes;
• In residential areas, correct the zoning map to match existing buildings;
• Limit housing construction in flood-prone areas along Belfield Avenue;
• Stop heavy industry from moving in.

Download maps of existing and proposed zoning

View an interactive map of the proposed zoning changes

PCPC is also proposing an Overlay zoning district for Germantown Avenue. This will add special rules for new buildings that face Germantown Avenue. The proposed overlay would:

• Allow us to review and approve the design of new buildings. Zoning doesn't allow us to do this right now;
• Require new buildings with 20 or more apartments or condos to have a parking lot or a garage;
• Remove the “ground-floor commercial” requirement for historic buildings;
• Stop some new car-oriented businesses from opening

Historic Sites Still Protected

Many buildings and sites on Germantown Avenue are listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places. These buildings cannot be demolished or changed without the approval of the Philadelphia Historical Commission.

,View a map of protected properties

Who is Involved in the Rezoning Process?

• PCPC’s employees will present the draft recommendations at a public meeting. Everyone can offer comments. We'll update the proposal based on your feedback;
• We'll give a draft bill to City Council. They will host a public hearing and vote on the changes. If they like what they see, then they'll send a zoning bill to the Mayor.
• If the Mayor signs the zoning bill, then the changes that we worked on together will become law.

How Can I Learn More and Share Comments?

Call/email:

Ian Hegarty, Upper Northwest Community Planner 215-683-4672 ,ian.hegarty@phila.gov

Online:

Germantown North Rezoning Map

Meeting:

A public meeting will be scheduled to present the proposed changes and hear feedback from residents, businesses, and other community stakeholders. Please check back here for updates.

What is Zoning?

Zoning controls the size and shape of buildings and how they are used. These rules should be easy to understand. Development should fit in with what’s around it. When this happens, there’s a shared understanding about what’s possible.

What was included in the changes?

DPD created a framework for preserving the Avenue’s feel while welcoming new jobs and residents. The change had four elements:

1. Consistent Rules

Properties clustered together now have similar zoning rules. The size and shape of new buildings will be more predictable as a result.

On Germantown Avenue from Johnson Street to Sedgwick Street, and from Allens Lane to Cresheim Valley Drive, we mostly used the Commercial Mixed-Use CMX-2 designation as the standard.

In the heart of the Mount Airy business district between Sedgwick and Allens, we used CMX-2.5. CMX-2.5 is a Commercial Mixed-Use designation that allows for taller buildings than CMX-2. Read more about zoning districts in PCPC’s Zoning Quick Reference Guide.

2. Building Design Approval

We heard from neighbors that Germantown Avenue’s buildings are unique and treasured.

We also know that strong businesses depend on strong design. Friendly building scale and design give Germantown Avenue an edge over suburban shopping centers.

That’s why new buildings and alterations now need Planning Commission approval for the design of the facade, the front of the building.

3. Considerations for Corner Lots and Historic Properties

If you have a building in a CMX-2 or 2.5 district, the zoning code requires you to put a business on the first floor. But many lots on Germantown Avenue wrap around to side streets. The commercial-use rule now only applies to the Germantown Avenue side of the building. This will focus commercial activity on the Avenue.

Properties listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places will not have to meet the ground floor use rule. This will remove a hurdle to investing in historic buildings.

4. Parking

Some recent residential projects demonstrated a need for reasonable off-street parking requirements. Off-street parking is car storage that’s not on a public street, such as in parking lots and garages.

The new rules require off-street parking if a project has 20 or more apartments or condos. They now must build 1 space for every 3 housing units.

We chose this section of Germantown Avenue first because it had the most construction activity. These new rules will balance growth with reasonable safeguards. We will continue a similar strategy for the rest of Germantown Avenue. And we'll take neighborhood concerns into account.

How can I get updates?

• Sign up to receive Philadelphia2035 emails for the North & Northwest Districts
• Like us on Facebook
• Follow us on Twitter
• Check back here, the Phila2035 website

Contact:

Matt Wysong, Senior Planner

215-683-4650

matt.wysong@phila.gov

The project focuses on Germantown Avenue from Sedgley Avenue to Northwestern Avenue. This touches the neighborhoods of Tioga, Nicetown, Germantown, Mt Airy, and Chestnut Hill.

The project has 3 goals:

1. Save Historic Places

2. Support Great Development

3. Share the Benefits

The Germantown Ave Project started in Summer 2019. The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) is running the project.

Why is this project happening?

Germantown Avenue runs through many neighborhoods. It is one of the most historic streets in Philadelphia.

In the City's Philadelphia2035 plan, the City and community identified Germantown Avenue as a focus.

We heard the desire for new stores and businesses while keeping affordability and character.

With development increasing in North and Northwest Philadelphia, we want to make sure those desires are met.

How will the project achieve its goals?

Our department’s tools to do this are:

1. Protecting historic buildings

2. Zoning

3. Help with housing affordability

We are also working with other City departments and communities. Together we want to make sure that growth benefits current residents.

Can you tell me more about the project goals?

Sure!

Save Historic Places:

Neighbors love the character of Germantown Avenue, and for good reason. Historic buildings connect us to our past, inspire community pride, and create a community identity. They also attract business. We want to protect these buildings from being torn down.

Support Great Development:

Germantown Avenue is not frozen in time. Builders will bring more housing, stores, and offices to the Avenue. The size, shape, and look of new buildings should fit in with the neighborhood. Development should also make the Avenue an easy place to walk and provide the right amount of parking.

Share the Benefits

Residents should benefit from growth. Public improvements, like new lights and street trees, will make the Avenue welcoming for all. DPD will connect homeowners with property tax and home improvement help. We will also support creating affordable housing in the neighborhoods along Germantown Avenue. Development can create jobs. DPD will advocate for local hiring whenever possible.

Who is involved with this project?

The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) is working with residents, businesses, the Commerce Department and builders. We have a stakeholder group to guide our work. It consists of non-profits, community groups, City departments, and politicians.

Stakeholders help us make decisions. They also connect us to residents and businesses on and around the Avenue.

The historic nominations and zoning changes will affect residents, businesses, and property owners. We will meet with the people who these changes could impact.

What's next?

We have big announcements and information to share in the coming weeks!

How can I get updates?

· Sign up to receive Philadelphia2035 emails for the North & Northwest Districts, where this project is located.

· Like us on Facebook

· Follow us on Twitter

· Check back here, the Phila2035 website

Contact:

Matt Wysong, Senior Planner

215-683-4650

matt.wysong@phila.gov

At the meeting, the Philadelphia City Planning Commission will present proposed zoning changes in the Nicetown neighborhood. Attend to learn about the proposed changes and make comments. The meeting is in an ADA accessible building.

What is zoning?

Zoning determines the shape and size of buildings, and what activities are allowed in buildings and on land. For example, whether a property can be used as a house or a store.

Where are the zoning changes proposed?

The rezoning area is bounded by Erie Avenue, Broad Street, and Hunting Park Avenue.

Where did the proposed changes come from?

The proposed changes are from the City's Philadelphia2035 plan.

The City created the plan by working with neighborhood residents, local organizations, businesses, and institutions.

View the entire plan, including proposed zoning, here: www.phila2035.org/north

Is this different from the Nicetown rezoning meeting that happened in April 2019?

No, the same information will be shared. The community requested a second meeting.

Who can I contact with questions?

Ariel Diliberto, City Planner

Ariel.Diliberto@phila.gov

215-683-4648

A community-driven project is gaining momentum in West Philadelphia. The Mantua Greenway is a biking and walking trail that will celebrate the Mantua community. It will connect 40th Street and Mantua Avenue to Philadelphia’s regional trail network.

The idea for the Mantua Greenway came from Mantua residents while they were developing a plan for their neighborhood in 2011. Residents organized clean-ups along Mantua Avenue and built local support for transforming the corridor. Community leaders continued this enthusiasm by starting Friends of the Mantua Greenway and holding planning meetings with local stakeholders, funders, and government agencies.

We’re making progress! The 34th Street Gateway, the first phase of the Mantua Greenway, is almost complete. Friends of the Mantua Greenway has gained new partners to help with planning, design, funding, and construction.

Here is a preview of current plans for the Mantua Greenway trail and what to keep an eye out for around the neighborhood!

THE MANTUA GREENWAY PROJECT:

The Mantua Greenway will celebrate the people and culture of the Mantua community, while connecting walkers and bikers in West Philadelphia. The Mantua Greenway will include:

· The Trail: A path connecting walkers and bikers from Mantua Avenue and 34th Street to 40th Street

· 34th Street Gateway: a sign and garden welcoming residents and visitors to Mantua

· Aspen Street Plaza: a garden for relaxing along the trail

· 37th Street Triangle: a space for fitness and performances

· 40th Street & Girard Avenue: a safer, more calm street experience

BENEFITS FOR ALL PHILADELPHIA RESIDENTS:

The Mantua Greenway will help all Philadelphia residents because walkers and bikers will be able to get to places near Girard Avenue, like the Please Touch Museum and the Philadelphia Zoo! The project also helps connect to other trails throughout the region. Many of these trails run along the Schuylkill River, but currently you can’t get to them on a biking or walking trail from Mantua.

GAINING ATTENTION:

The Mantua Greenway is gaining citywide attention. In 2014, the trail was a lower priority. By 2018, the Mantua Greenway was a high priority, ranking 4th out of 23 sidepath projects! (A sidepath is a paved path for biking and walking that runs alongside a street.)

WHO’S INVOLVED?

The Mantua Greenway has strong community roots. Friends of the Mantua Greenway leads the project with neighborhood partners, including Mt. Vernon Manor CDC. These organizations helped guide the project from the beginning, inspiring new partners to join. Philadelphia Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC), Philadelphia Department of Commerce, Philadelphia Water Department, and Philadelphia Streets Department are now helping the Mantua Greenway project address funding and city requirements. The project also has state partners, including Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which provide grant funding for the Greenway’s design.

WHAT WE’RE WORKING ON NOW:

This project is an opportunity for PCPC to work alongside neighborhood organizations to help with the design of a community vision. Mantua community members first worked with the National Park Service and Philadelphia University (now Thomas Jefferson University) to create a design concept for the Mantua Greenway. PCPC is now helping with the design and working with engineering firm Whitman, Requardt and Associates, LLP (WRA) to finish engineering construction documents. WRA is refining the project’s remaining designs based on comments from the Departments of Water and Streets.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Residents and visitors will notice construction of the Gateway at northwest corner of Mantua Avenue and 34th Street, which is almost complete.

The Mantua Greenway trail, parks, and recreational areas are still under review by PCPC. The Greenway also needs more funding before trail construction can begin. The project team is working to find grant opportunities to fund this remaining construction.

HOW CAN I GET UPDATES?

· Check out the Mantua Greenway project website

· Sign up to receive Philadelphia2035 emails for the West District, where this project is located.

· Like us on Facebook

· Follow us on Twitter

· Check the Phila2035 website

Over 300 people came out to recognize volunteer contributions in shaping their neighborhoods. We appreciate your support and hope you enjoyed the event!

Our photographer, Chris Santaniello, captured some great moments.

Download and print, or purchase photos at this link!

See the event program and more details about Philadelphians Shape This City below.

Event also included:

Free copies of We Build This City, the new Philadelphia City Planning Commission Zine!

Live Band: New Era!

A staffed children's area with a coloring activity.

Thank you to our generous sponsors, Loews Hotel and BB&T.

Wednesday, March 27 at 7pm

New Covenant Church sanctuary

7500 Germantown Avenue

What is the meeting about?

Germantown Avenue, Mount Airy’s main street, is attracting new housing and businesses.

The City Planning Commission proposes zoning changes on Germantown Ave. The goal of these changes is predictable development that fits the community’s vision in the City’s Comprehensive Plan.

What is zoning?

Zoning controls the size and shape of new buildings and how they are used

How do I get involved?

Attend the meeting and give your feedback:

Wednesday, March 27 at 7pm

New Covenant Church Sanctuary

7500 Germantown Avenue

The meeting is hosted by the Philadelphia City Planning Commission and the Mount Airy Business Improvement District (BID).

What's in the proposal?

The proposed changes focus on Germantown Avenue from Johnson Street to Cresheim Valley Drive. The zoning changes will create consistent rules about the size and shape of new buildings.

In addition, special rules are proposed for building design and parking that are custom-tailored to the neighborhood.

These new zoning rules will establish a strong framework for preserving the Avenue’s feel while welcoming new jobs and residents. Getting the zoning right on Germantown Avenue today will benefit the neighborhood for years to come.

Let’s break the proposal down:

1. Zoning Map Changes

The proposed changes will make the zoning map more consistent.

Properties clustered together will have similar zoning rules. The size and shape of new buildings will be more predictable as a result.

In general, we used the CMX-2 Commercial Mixed-Use district as the standard for Germantown Avenue from Johnson Street to Sedgwick Street and from Allens Lane to Cresheim Valley Drive.

In the heart of the Mount Airy business district between Sedgwick and Allens, we propose CMX-2.5. Read more about what the different zoning districts mean in our Zoning Quick Reference Guide [PDF}.

2. Building Design Approval

We heard loud and clear from neighbors that Germantown Avenue’s buildings are unique and treasured.

We also know from examples throughout the region that strong businesses depend on strong design.

Friendly building scale and design give Germantown Avenue an edge over suburban shopping centers.

That’s why we propose that new buildings and alterations will need Planning Commission approval for facade (front of building) design. Currently, other important commercial streets require such approval, such as portions of Chestnut and Walnut Streets in Center City.

3. Corner Lots and Historic Properties

The zoning code requires commercial uses, such as stores and offices, on the ground (first) floors of buildings in the Commercial Mixed-Used districts CMX-2 and CMX-2.5.

But many lots on Germantown Avenue wrap around to side streets. We propose that the commercial-use requirement will only apply to the Germantown Avenue side of the building.

This provision will focus commercial activity on the Avenue.

Properties listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places will be exempt entirely from ground floor use requirements, to remove hurdles to investing in historic buildings.

4. Parking

Recent residential projects have demonstrated a need for reasonable off-street parking requirements. Off-street parking is parking that is not on the street, such as parking lots, and garages.

We’re proposing off-street parking for projects with 20 or more apartments or condos at a reasonable ratio of 1 space for every 3 housing units.

for more details:

Download the draft zoning change maps [PDF] that will be presented at the public meeting.

What happens next?

Our staff will be on hand to hear comments at the public meeting on March 27th.

Then we’ll make changes based on your feedback before preparing the final bill for introduction at City Council.

Questions? Contact:

Ian Hegarty, Community Planner

Philadelphia City Planning Commission

ian.hegarty@phila.gov

215-683-4648

Maplewood Mall

Maplewood Mall was transformed into a pedestrian street more than 40 years ago, but maintenance has not kept pace with need. The Planning Commission is coordinating the design and reconstruction of this unique public space, with a goal of supporting business growth and creating useful, beautiful space for community events. The reconstruction will be funded with neighborhood commercial corridors capital funding administered by Philadelphia's Commerce Department.

Maplewood Mall will be completely rebuilt with high-quality materials, while maintaining the street’s pedestrian-friendly qualities. Improvements include:

• Fully rebuilt street, sidewalks, and plazas
• New lighting, street trees, and plants
• Bicycle racks, seating, and public art

The landscape plan for the mall includes short concrete seat walls, which will be adorned with a mosaic of tiles, handmade by residents. The walls and tiles will show a wood-grain texture, to reference the block’s use as a lumberyard in the 1850s. Most of the materials are inspired by wood and metal, and the plants will look natural and lush.

The plaza at Greene Street will offer an amphitheater space with plenty of places to sit and room for neighborhood events, such as concerts.

The Germantown Avenue entrance will be modified to allow clear sight lines into the plaza from the Avenue, drawing visitors in with brick pavers and lush gardens.

Maplewood Mall has been fully designed. This project is expected to be advertised for bids from contractors in February 2019, with the contract awarded and construction beginning later that Spring. The new mall is expected to open in the summer of 2020.

Contact:

Matt Wysong, Senior Planner

215-683-4650

matt.wysong@phila.gov

Chelten Greene

The City is also transforming a well-worn corner plaza into Chelten Greene, a vibrant gateway to Vernon Park. The existing 30-year-old plaza is in poor physical condition. It’s sunken rear section tends to collect litter and the plaza doesn’t connect directly to Vernon Park, even though the two open spaces are next to one another.

Since the deteriorating plaza needed to be replaced, we decided to take the opportunity design a better plaza by talking to nearby residents, business owners, and other interested citizens. We held a design workshop, an on-site meeting, and a public meeting to vote on design concepts. This outreach process revealed four guiding principles:

• Create a gateway into Vernon Park and the Chelten Avenue business district
• Create a plaza space that feels larger, safer, and more open
• Provide adequate bus shelter space
• Connect the plaza to Vernon Park, both physically and visually.

Since then, the Planning Commission has worked through final design while seeking input and approval from the Streets Department, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Parks and Recreation. Roughly half of project costs will be funded with neighborhood commercial corridors capital funding administered by the Commerce Department. The remainder will be funded by a grant from PennDOT for smaller-scale transportation projects.

The plaza will be leveled out, with raised planting beds added along the existing building wall. A large, new bus shelter will be added along with plenty of seating.

A flexible space at the Chelten Avenue end will accommodate food vendors while leaving room for pedestrians and tables.

A new entrance to Vernon Park will be created at the north end of the plaza.

This project is expected to be advertised for bids from contractors in March of 2019, with the contract awarded and construction beginning later that Spring. The new plaza is expected to open in early 2020.

Contact:

Ian Hegarty, Community Planner

215-683-4672

ian.hegarty@phila.gov

“To overhaul a plan that dates to the Eisenhower Administration is a real accomplishment,” said Denny Puko, chairman of the chapter awards committee. “To undertake a citywide vision and 18 different district plans, and to do so almost entirely in house, is truly exceptional.”

What is Philadelphia2035 again?

Philadelphia2035 is the official vision for the future of the city’s growth. It is the first written comprehensive plan for Philadelphia since 1960. The plan calls for:

• Housing everyone can afford
• Quality public transportation
• Streets safe for walking, driving, and biking
• Jobs and shops
• Parks within a 10-minute walk for everyone
• Healthy food options
• Historic buildings that are saved and reused

In other words, Philadelphia2035 is the plan for Philadelphia to THRIVE, CONNECT, and RENEW, which we are already hard at work putting into action.

Together, we won this

Philadelphia2035 is the result of research, outreach and collaboration with thousands of Philadelphians, and coordinating with multiple partners. stakeholders, and other city agencies.

Philadelphia City Planner Martine Decamp received the award on behalf of the City at the APA-PA annual luncheon in Erie, PA. DeCamp told the audience, “Although I am standing here on my own, there are 1.6 million people behind me to accept this award.”

During the nine years since the start of the process to create Philadelphia2035, the City wrote a new comprehensive plan, rewrote the zoning code, added a civic design review process for large building projects, created a permanent civic engagement arm of city planning (the Citizens Planning Institute), and created a process to put the plan into action.

Almost all the work was done in-house by City staff, not outside consultants.

“Once again, the City Planning Commission and its staff have been recognized by their colleagues,” said Mayor Kenney. “Philadelphia has a detailed map to its future, and it is because of these dedicated professionals and the thousands of city residents and stakeholders they engaged over the past nine years.”

What is the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA-PA)?

The Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA-PA) is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization for the promotion of planning, and for professional planners and planning officials in the Commonwealth. APA-PA provides leadership in the development of vital communities by advocating excellence in community planning through education, empowerment, partnership, and public policy.

The Development Checklist was created to answer development questions.

From creating new buildings to restoring old structures to preventing flooding on your property, this checklist will help you through the process.

The Checklist provides an overview of the most common permits and approvals required for real estate projects, so you can know what to expect with your development project.

Eleven City departments provided helpful tips in the Checklist to prevent delays and answer questions like:

• Who do I contact about a permit?
• Does my property need a Pre-Building Permit Review?
• Will my development need an Air Pollution Permit?
• What is the usual review time for my building permit?
• Can I get an accelerated review of my permit? How much will it cost?

The Development Checklist is updated regularly to reflect new permit requirements, updates in fees and other information important to your development’s success.

Additional information about applications and reviews can be found by clicking on the links throughout the document.

What is the Division of Development Services?

The Division of Development Services is a division of the Department of Planning & Development that works to make developing in Philadelphia as easy as possible.

If it doesn’t provide answers to your questions, or if you need more help, you can contact Development Services at (215) 683-4652 or developerservices@phila.gov.

The Citizens Planning Institute (CPI) course teaches Philadelphians about city planning, zoning, and development.

Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2018 classes, which will be on Wednesdays 6-9pm October 3 - November 14 in Center City.

who is the cpi course for?

Anyone who loves where they live!

Whether you’ve been involved in your neighborhood for years, or if you’re a new neighbor—if you want to make a difference in your community, CPI is for you!

What will I take away from the experience?

The CPI course gives people the tools, resources, and connections to get things done in their neighborhood.

Participants learn from leaders in the fields of planning, development, and community organizing. They also connect with the growing network of Citizen Planners across the City who are working on many of the same issues.

How do I apply?

Apply online on the CPI website. If you or someone you know requires a print application, call 215-683-4648. The deadline to apply is September 11th.

what is city planning?

City planning creates a vision for how to improve housing, neighborhoods, jobs, transportation, and public space.

Plans make recommendations based on community input and on studies of existing properties, demographics, housing, and transit issues. They also show how to turn the ideas in the plan into action.

Citizen Planner Tonnetta Graham helped get the historic trolley loop (now a bus loop) at 33rd & Dauphin restored instead of being torn down. Now she's a community liaison for the Historic Preservation Citizen Engagement Project! (Image courtesy of PlanPhilly).

Citizen Planners are an important part of Mayor Kenney’s Historic Preservation Task Force!

Graduates from our Citizens Planning Institute are community liaisons for the Historic Preservation Citizen Engagement project, led by PennPraxis.

Citizen Planners and their organizations are hosting community conversations about historic preservation.

They will also test out a new toolkit that explains how historic preservation works so all communities can be involved.

These are the Citizen Planners involved in the project:

• Philippa (Pip) Campbell (Fall 2014) - Center City
• Quibila A. Divine (Spring 2011) - Nicetown/Tioga
• Miguel Garces (Fall 2014) - Point Breeze
• Shannon Garrison (Spring 2017) - Queen Village/Bella Vista
• Tonnetta Graham (Fall 2012) - Strawberry Mansion
• Lorraine Gomez (Fall 2016) - East Parkside
• Mary McGettigan (Fall 2013) - Spruce Hill
• Meeka Outlaw (Fall 2011) - Grays Ferry
• Catherine Reynolds (Fall 2016) - Parkwood
• Dianne Settles (Fall 2016) - Southwest Philadelphia
• Don Simon (Spring 2014) - Roxborough/Manayunk
• Helma Weeks (Fall 2016) - Powelton Village
• Venise Whitaker (Fall 2016) - Fishtown

Note: There are additional neighborhoods with liaisons who are not Citizen Planners.

Historic preservation is part of Philadelphia2035

Did you know that every Philadelphia2035 District Plan includes recommendations about historic preservation?

Check out the historic recommendations in your District's Plan, under the "Renew" section.

Potential housing and shops near Germantown Station

highlights from the DRAFT plan

The Draft Plan includes 41 recommendations. The eight recommendations below are priority recommendations, which we believe residents, elected officials, and city agencies should act on first:

• Plant street trees, install and repair lighting, and draw businesses to Germantown Avenue, Chelten Avenue, and Wayne Avenue
• Direct housing development to commercial streets and train stations to increase the number of people using public transit and shopping at local businesses
• Preserve large houses and properties by allowing accessory dwellings ("in-law suites")
• Improve the frequency and rider experience on the Route 23 bus to support Germantown Avenue. Consolidate stops, build seating and shelters, and give buses priority at traffic signals
• Make Lincoln Drive and Wissahickon Avenue safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians
• Provide restrooms, water fountains, lighting, and wi-fi access at stations in Wissahickon Valley Park
• Invest in parks and recreation. Build a community playground in Southwest Germantown, improve the entrance to Pickett Pool, rehabilitate Happy Hollow, and improve walkways and entrances at Fernhill Park
• Complete a survey of historic properties and sites

Proposed pocket park at Wayne Avenue and Berkley Street

How was the plan made?

To create the draft of the plan we:

• Did research on the district

• Held public meetings

• Collected feedback online

• Met with a steering committee of neighborhood and business groups, politicians, and City agencies

You can read the research we did on the district and summaries of the three public meetings we hosted.

Our meetings had a combined attendance of over 685 people.

What's Next?

1. We are collecting your comments on the plan through September 4th! Email comments to: ian.hegarty@phila.gov .
2. After we review the comments, we will change the plan.
3. The final version will be presented at the September 18th City Planning Commission meeting, which is open to the public.
4. Once the plan is adopted by the City Planning Commission, we can start making it happen!

We hope you stay involved by commenting on the draft plan. We look forward to working with you in the years ahead to help those ideas come to life!

How can I get updates?

• Sign-up to receive Philadelphia2035 emails
• “Like" us on Facebook
• Check the Phila2035 website

The plan’s goal is to make it easy to connect to buses, trains, sidewalks, bike trails, and shops at the Wissahickon Gateway.

This aerial photo shows what is at the Wissahickon Gateway now, and where the Wissahickon Transportation Center (WTC) will be moving

the final plan recommends:

• Expansion of the Wissahickon Transportation Center (WTC)
• Extension of the Schuylkill River Trail (SRT)
• Road improvements on Ridge Avenue and Main Street for vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians
• New development that includes shops, offices, and apartments
• Public space and aesthetic improvements

This image shows some of the plan's recommendations

Your input improved the plan

We worked with the residents, bus and train riders, bicyclists, businesses, and other government agencies to create the draft plan.

After we released the draft plan in June, , we received comments from the public and met with local community groups and City agencies again to finish the recommendations and the vision for the Gateway.

Based on these conversations, we added the following recommendations in the plan:

• Each bus, train, trail, road, and development project will have public meetings, a project manager available to answer questions, and will disrupt residents and businesses as little as possible during construction. Detailed designs for these projects will be drawn up at a later date.

• No proposed zoning changes at this time. First we will work with property owners, developers, the public, community groups, and City Council to make a detailed development plan that everyone agrees with.

• New stores will meet the unmet needs of residents and will not compete with existing businesses in East Falls, Manayunk, and Roxborough. Specific needs identified by the community are a grocery store, shops and dining that face the Schuylkill River Trail, and offices.

• The front of the new Wissahickon Transportation Center (WTC) along Ridge Avenue needs to be attractive, with bus traffic should be hidden behind it. The WTC should also complement the beauty of Wissahickon Park and be a welcoming entrance to Northwest Philadelphia

What's Next?

The City Planning Commission adopted the Wissahickon Gateway Plan on July 18th. This means we can start to put the plan into action!

• SEPTA will hold meetings about the design of the WTC with the public and community groups later this year.
• Parks & Recreation will seek money for trail design and construction
• Work with community groups and property owners to make sure new development is consistent with a shared vision.

How can I get updates?

• Sign-up to receive Philadelphia2035 emails
• “Like" us on Facebook
• Check the Phila2035 website