City Hall
City Releases Proposed Center City Arena Impact Studies
With this week’s release of the highly anticipated City-commissioned impact studies, the future of the Philadelphia 76ers’ proposed $1.55 billion Center City arena now rests with City Council and Mayor Cherelle Parker. City Council may consider legislation based on the findings and public feedback as early as this fall. SEPTA is considering service enhancements, staff increases, and station upgrades, should the arena be approved, to accommodate the anticipated rise in transit demand.
City Working on Environmental Justice Mapping Tool
Philadelphia is creating an environmental justice mapping tool with input from residents to address concerns like illegal dumping, air pollution, and poorly maintained trees, aiming to better inform City decisions and prioritize investments.
Around Town
City Officials Seek Increased School Facilities Funding Amid Heatwave
As Philadelphia’s 113,000 students headed back to school this week, City officials called for increased federal funding to address poor conditions in Philadelphia public schools, such as inadequate air conditioning and ventilation, which led to early dismissals during this week’s heatwave. They emphasized the need for significant federal support, particularly for the City's many aging school buildings.
Mother of Roxborough Football Player Sues School District Over Gun Violence
The mother of a slain Roxborough High School football player is suing the Philadelphia School District, accusing it of ignoring the threat of gun violence that led to her son’s 2022 death.
SEPTA to Increase Regional Rail Service in September
SEPTA will increase regional rail service starting in September by adding 99 more weekend trains and 24 more weekday trains to meet demand and improve flexibility, bringing service closer to pre-pandemic levels.
Road Safety Advocates Concerned About Future of Vision Zero
Recent pedestrian and bicyclist deaths in Philadelphia have raised doubts about the effectiveness of the City’s Vision Zero plan to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2030. Advocates are calling for improved funding and infrastructure, such as protected bike lanes and concrete barriers, to address safety concerns amid a decrease in City spending on street safety.
Esperanza Health Center Receives $500K to Combat Opioid Use Disorder
The Esperanza Health Center in Kensington received nearly $500,000 in federal funding to expand its behavioral treatment center and enhance services for opioid use disorder and community health.
City Receives $1.3M DOE Grant to Explore “Cool Roofs”
The City of Philadelphia received a $1.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to determine whether “cool roofs” can be scaled at the neighborhood level, expand energy efficiency education, and develop the clean energy workforce.
Election Update
Could Suburban Philadelphia Women Determine Outcome of 2024 Election?
Women in Philadelphia’s suburbs are expected to play a crucial role in the 2024 election, with Democrats benefiting from their strong focus on reproductive rights. The suburban female vote, pivotal in recent elections, could significantly influence the outcome as Democratic candidates emphasize this issue in their campaigns.
What the 2024 Presidential Election Means for Philadelphia’s Economy
Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump propose starkly different economic plans that could significantly impact Philadelphia. Harris emphasizes affordable housing, expanded child tax credits, and banning grocery price gouging, while Trump focuses on tax cuts, increasing tariffs, and boosting fossil fuel production. Harris’ proposals might benefit urban areas like Philadelphia, while Trump’s policies may resonate more in regions dependent on traditional energy industries.