2-06-2008

Dear PlanPhilly member,

This week in Philadelphia design and planning:

1. SugarHouse pulls workers from site

The proposed casino site in Fishtown was silent Tuesday morning, as SugarHouse pulled idle equipment and workers from the site, citing a need to save money until work permits are issued. SugarHouse estimates it is $100 million over budget due to the prolonged approval process. Click here for the full report: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2685.

2. Wreckers at work on North Broad Street

Despite protest and citywide news coverage, the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority took a wrecking ball to the PLICO buildings on North Broad Street, taking down the walls of both structures.

Check out PlanPhilly video of the wreckage: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2685.  Also, see a webcam set up by the Convention Center Authority for live updates from 13th and Arch Streets: http://www.paconvention.com/exp/expand.asp.

3. Creating a preeminent planning commission

PlanPhilly's Thomas Walsh reports that members of the City Planning Commission are optimistic that Michael Nutter’s early emphasis on the agency signals the dawn of a new era in Philadelphia planning. Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2669.

In related news, check out PennPraxis director Harris Steinberg’s editorial in the Philadelphia Inquirer about what the appointment of Andrew Altman as Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development could mean for the city: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2665.

4. ImaginePhiladelphia forums conclude

The next step is for the City Planning Commission to issue a public report summarizing the citizen input that will help inform the city’s comprehensive planning process. Check out the story on the final forum (http://www.planphilly.com/node/2669) as well as Michael Nutter’s appearance at the forum in Germantown (http://www.planphilly.com/node/2667).

5. Results from Kimmel Center Public Space Forums

PennPraxis and the Penn Project for Civic Engagement completed its series of forums gathering citizen input on how to reinvigorate the Kimmel Center public spaces last week. 

Both Chris Satullo (http://www.philly.com/inquirer/columnists/chris_satullo/20080202_Chris_Satullo__Gaining_ideas_on_fixing_the_Kimmel__and_losing_an_icon.html) and Inga Saffron (http://www.philly.com/inquirer/magazine/15099797.html) wrote about the forums in the Inquirer. Also check out PlanPhilly's interview with Saffron about the Kimmel after she attended the January 27 forum: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2664.

View the Kimmel Center Feedback Page on PlanPhilly for complete data from all five forums as well as citizen ideas submitted by email in response to Satullo’s column last week: http://www.planphilly.com/kimmelfeedback.

For general project information, check out: www.planphilly.com/kimmel.

Upcoming Events

Feb. 8: Philadelphia City Planning Commission meeting -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2666
Feb. 12: Landmark Lecture Series: Penn’s plan and the founding of the city -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2680
Feb. 13: Zoning Code Commission monthly meeting -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2682
Feb. 19 - March 5: Great Expectations Agenda Neighborhood Forums -- http://www.greatexpectations07.com/

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

1-24-08

Dear PlanPhilly member,

This week’s update includes breaking news on zoning for Foxwoods Casino and the revoking of SugarHouse's riparian rights license, as well as news on the continued demolition of the PLICO buildings on North Broad, bike sharing; and the new looks of the Zoning Code Commission and Planning Commission.

1. Foxwoods zoning legislation introduced

City Council majority leader Marian Tasco submits Commercial Entertainment District designation for casino concern on behalf of Frank DiCicco. Click here for the story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2598.

Read the ordinance here: http://www.planphilly.com/files/FoxwoodsCED%20designation.pdf.

2. Breaking News: Nutter revokes SugarHouse submerged lands license

In a press conference this afternoon, Mayor Michael Nutter calls Commerce Department's granting of license to casino "rushed" and "in error." He says SugarHosue can re-apply to Commerce Department, reaffirming the notion that the city has the authority to grant riparian rights. Check PlanPhilly for a more detailed report this evening.

Click here for more information: http://www.philly.com/philly/hp/news_update/20080124_Nutter_revokes_SugarHouse_license.html

3. Did system doom historic North Broad Street buildings?

Commonwealth Court judge dismisses Preservation Alliance challenge to Convention Center, DGS demolition; no appeal planned. A rally is planned for Friday at noon at Broad and Arch Streets.  Click here for the full report: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2589.

Read the order: http://www.planphilly.com/files/dgs%20opinion.PDF.

4. Zoning Code Commission has a full house

With all appointments made, ZCC holds first fully staffed meeting; commission hears how zoning relates to health and environment. Click here to read the full report: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2595. PlanPhilly will be continuing its profiles of new members.

Also, Planning Commission gets Mayor Nutter makeover: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2585.

5. Peddling a more efficient way to get around

Over 400 turn out on a snowy evening to hear how best practices for bike sharing could change the face of getting around Philadelphia.  Click here for the PlanPhilly story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2565.  Click here for Bike Share Philadelphia's website: http://www.bikesharephiladelphia.org/events/forum/.

Email your support to the mayor: http://www.bikesharephiladelphia.org/takeaction/

6. Kimmel Center Public Space Forums

The Kimmel has partnered with PennPraxis and the Penn Project on Civic Engagement to lead a public process on how to make the Kimmel Center public spaces a more vibrant community destination.  Ideas will be the base of work done by University of Pennsylvania and University of the Arts design students.

For more information on the project and how to participate, check out: www.planphilly.com/kimmel

7. Imagining Philadelphia

PlanPhilly will continue covering the series of Imagine Philadelphia sessions, a series of public forums coordinated by the City Planning Commission that marks the beginning of a city comprehensive planning process.

Click here for the report from the Center City session: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2591

Here is the schedule of the remaining forums:

Jan. 29: Germantown -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2489
Jan. 31: Roxborough -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2600

Other Upcoming Events

Jan. 24: DRPA trolley line extension meetings -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2552
Jan. 25: ULI Philadelphia Fourth Friday Breakfast: “Penn Connects” -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2543
Jan. 25: Rally to support preservation of the PLICO buildings -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2597

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

1-17-08
Dear PlanPhilly member,

Another week of developments concerning SugarHouse casino permits, historic preservation, and the potential for bike sharing. Stay tuned to PlanPhilly for breaking news on an upcoming Army Corps of Engineers report on the SugarHouse dig to archaeological consulting parties:

1. Our History and the SugarHouse Site

Noted local historian Torben Jenk takes PlanPhilly on a journey back to the time of the Lenni-Lenape Native American tribe and occupying British troops.  See the video: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2582.

2. SugarHouse Work Ok'd

Late last week, the Army Corps determines work on casino site is appropriate and can continue if it pertains to tree removal and silt fencing; SugarHouse gets slots license. Click here for the full report: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2557.

3. Nutter Appoints Zoning Board Members

Today, Mayor Michael Nutter announced his five new appointees to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Mayor Nutter recommended that Susan Jaffe, community leader and former ZBA vice chair, serve as Chair of the Board. Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2583.

4. Inquirer: PATCO, SEPTA may team up on riverfront rail

PATCO's proposals to extend commuter rail service along the Delaware riverfront could mean a new partnership with SEPTA, officials said today. Click here for the full story: http://www.philly.com/philly/hp/news_update/20080117_PATCO__SEPTA_may_team_up_for_new_rail_service.html.

This identifies one potential project for newly-appointed deputy mayor for transportation Rina Cutler, who was quoted yesterday suggesting a single payment system for Philadelphia's three transit/transportation agencies: SEPTA, PATCO, and PPA. Click here to read the report on Heard in the Hall blog: http://blogs.phillynews.com/inquirer/heardinthehall/2008/01/an_allagency_transitparking_ca.html.

5. Is Philly Ready for Bike Share?

Looking at best practices for bike sharing and how that concept could change the face of getting around Philadelphia: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2565.

6. Imagining Philadelphia

PlanPhilly reporter Alan Jaffe continued covering the series of Imagine Philadelphia sessions, a series of public forums coordinated by the City Planning Commission that marks the beginning of a city comprehensive planning process.

Click here for this week's story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2579

Here is the schedule of the remaining forums:

Jan. 22: Center City -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2488
Jan. 29: Germantown -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2489
Jan. 31: Roxborough

7. Kimmel Center Public Space Forums

The Kimmel has partnered with PennPraxis and the Penn Project on Civic Engagement to lead a public process on how to make the Kimmel Center public spaces a more vibrant community destination.  Ideas will be the base of work done by University of Pennsylvania and University of the Arts desgin students.

Registration is required, so sign up for one of the following forums today by clicking here: www.planphilly.com/kimmel

Wednesday, January 23: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Sunday, January 27: 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Monday, January 28: 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Wednesday, January 30: 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Other Upcoming Events

Jan. 17: Sustainable Philadelphia Bike Sharing Forum -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2542
Jan. 22: DRPA trolley line extension meetings -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2551
Jan. 23: Zoning Code Commission hearing -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2490
Jan. 24: DRPA trolley line extension meetings -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2552

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

1-10-08
Dear PlanPhilly member,

This week brought breaking news about casino permits and archaeology, historic preservation, and infrastructure costs:

1. Nutter Calls for Casino Review

In light of the Street administration’s last minute permitting for SugarHouse Casino, the incoming Nutter administration will examine every decision Philadelphia has made regarding SugarHouse and Foxwoods.  Stay tuned today as Kellie Patrick Gates continues to report this story.

Click here for the full report -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2550 -- and read Gates’ piece on the permitting flap: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2526.

2. North Broad Demolition Ban in Place

Philadelphia preservationists win a temporary injunction barring destruction of PLICO buildings until a full hearing is conducted in Commonwealth Court on Jan. 24.

Read Matt Blanchard’s story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2474

Photos and video posted: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2484
Inquirer coverage: http://www.philly.com/philly/hp/news_update/20071225_Judge_saves_buildings_for_now.html
DAG alert: http://action.designadvocacy.org/RestorePhilaLife

The Preservation Alliance is leading the legal effort to preserve the buildings. Read more: http://www.preservationalliance.com/advocacy/current-advocacy-issues.shtml.
Donations to the 'Philadelphia Life Legal Fund’ can be made online at: https://pagp.javelinhosting.com/membership/donateform.shtml

3. Infrastructure Series Part 4: Paying for Projects

The latest installment in a series of stories examining the infrastructure projects proposed in the Civic Vision for the Central Delaware, and how they will solve the question of funding. This story looks at one of the biggest challenges in the Penn Praxis plan: what to do with Interstate 95.

Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2545.

Previous stories:

Infrastructure overview: http://www.planphilly.com/node/1989
Parks and green space: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2176
SEPTA funding: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2277

4. Norquist to Nutter: Philly Poised for Resurgence

On Sunday, the Inquirer's Currents section printed advice from former mayors from around the country, and John Norquist of Milwaukee tips his cap to the PennPraxis riverfront civic vision. Click here to read the full op-ed: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/currents/13298002.html.

5. Imagining Philadelphia

PlanPhilly reporter Alan Jaffe will continue covering the series of Imagine Philadelphia sessions, a series of public forums coordinated by the City Planning Commission that marks the beginning of a city comprehensive planning process.

Here is the schedule of Imagine Philadelphia forums:

Jan. 15: North Philadelphia -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2486
Jan. 16: Bridesburg, Kensington, Richmond -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2487 
Jan. 22: Center City -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2488
Jan. 29: Germantown -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2489

Other Upcoming Events

Jan. 12: Preservation Alliance St. Peter’s and Hopewell Villages Rural Industrial History and Hiking Tour -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2540
Jan. 12: Mural Arts Program Murals & Sacred Places Tour -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2541
Jan. 15: Philadelphia City Planning Commission monthly meeting -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2452
Jan. 17: Sustainable Philadelphia Bike Sharing Forum -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2542

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

1-03-08

Dear PlanPhilly member,

Here is a recap of some holiday week news in design and planning in Philadelphia:

1. Injunction on North Broad Street

On Christmas Eve, the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia obtained a court order to halt the demolition of the historic PLICO building and Giurgola annex on North Broad Street.  The façade of the annex was ripped off before the injunction was issued.

The Design Advocacy Group has issued an action alert, which can be seen here: http://action.designadvocacy.org/RestorePhilaLife.  There will be a hearing concerning the demolition in Commonwealth Court in Harrisburg on Jan. 8 at 10 a.m.

Check out video and photos on PlanPhilly -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2474 -- in addition to coverage by the Philadelphia Inquirer: http://www.philly.com/philly/hp/news_update/20071225_Judge_saves_buildings_for_now.html.  Click here to view the court order: http://www.planphilly.com/files/Order%20of%20Agreement.pdf.

2. Inquirer: City Council Joins Call to Block SugarHouse

City Council has joined a group of state legislators in an attempt to block SugarHouse Casino from building over state-owned land underneath the Delaware River. Council's petition to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court mirrors one filed by seven state legislators from Philadelphia  - saying Mayor Street's Commerce Department improperly licensed SugarHouse to build on submerged state land.

Click here for the full story: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20071228_Council_asks_court_to_stop_city_casino.html.

3. Trump, Penn Treaty Towers closer to reality

The State Senate and the House have approved bills granting rights to riparian land to development groups for the Trump Tower and Penn Treaty Tower, located on Piers 35.5 and 53 respectively. The bills require a final vote since language was changed in the Senate, but both are expected to pass.  Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2470.

4. New Timeline Feature on PlanPhilly

Check out our newest feature, an interactive timeline showing how Philadelphia developed by clicking here: http://www.planphilly.com/timeline/waterfront.

5. More Imagining, Philadelphia

PlanPhilly reporter Alan Jaffe will continue covering the series of Imagine Philadelphia sessions, a series of public forums coordinated by the City Planning Commission that marks the beginning of a city comprehensive planning process.

Here is the schedule of Imagine Philadelphia forums:

Jan. 15: North Philadelphia -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2486
Jan. 16: Bridesburg, Kensington, Richmond -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2487 
Jan. 22: Center City -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2488
Jan. 29: Germantown -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2489

Other Upcoming Events

Jan. 9: ZCC Informational Session: Presentation by Water Department -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2485
Jan. 9: Logan Square/Parkway Neighborhood Plan Kickoff -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2407
Jan. 15: Philadelphia City Planning Commission monthly meeting -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2452

Happy New Year,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

12-13-2007

Dear PlanPhilly member,

During the past week, PlanPhilly reporters brought you several exclusive, breaking stories in design and planning.

1. SugarHouse Archaeological Dig: Unearthing the Past

Kellie Patrick Gates reported that archaeologists – hired by the SugarHouse Casino in order to meet the requirements of a federal Clean Water Act permit – have dug enough historical items of interest on the site that the Pennsylvania Historical Commission is looking into the finding. Check out the story and slideshow of revealing maps: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2386.

Some maps indicate that a British Fort existed on the site during the British occupation of Philadelphia in 1777.  Read more and see images: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2401.

2. North Broad Demolition Threat Looms

As reported by Matt Blanchard, two historically significant buildings on N. Broad Street have been slated for demolition, despite a binding agreement reached between the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority to preserve them. The Preservation Alliance and Design Advocacy Group have petitioned the Convention Center Authority to uphold their original agreement. Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2371.

The Inquirer editorialized today that the Center should save the buildings: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/opinion/20071213_Editorial___Expanded_Convention_Center_should_leave_room_for_history.html

3. Development News or Demolition Blues?

An Irish development group has striking new plans for the former Parking Authority site on the northwest corner of Rittenhouse Square. Castleway Properties is planning a hotel, condo and retail project on a T-shaped site on the 1900 block of Walnut and Sansom Streets. But at risk are three historic structures along Sansom Street that locals just rescued from the wrecking ball in 2004. Click here to read the story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2358.

Inga Saffron covered this as well in her Changing Skyline blog: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/magazine/12241071.html.

4. Community Considers Civil Disobedience

John Davidson gave us the first glimpse of what could play out at SugarHouse Casino’s Delaware Avenue site in the coming weeks, as Casino-Free Philadelphia staged what they called a “practice site occupation.” Click here to watch the video: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2383.  Click here to read the story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2381.

5. City and State battle over riparian rights

In 200-0 vote, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives calls for the state Attorney General to issue an injunction challenging Philadelphia’s Commerce Department decision on the SugarHouse Casino riparian land situation. Click here to read the story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2393.

6. Central Delaware Process Resonates Across River

The Gloucester County Times reports on riverfront development in South Jersey and what the Central Delaware Planning Process meant for the region.  Click here to read the story: http://www.nj.com/news/gloucester/index.ssf?/base/news-2/1197188843262960.xml&coll=8.

7. Central Delaware Accolades

PennPraxis received the 2007 American Institute of Architects Philadelphia Urban Design Committee Award for creating A Civic Vision for the Central Delaware.  Harris Steinberg accepted the award on December 6 at an AIA gathering.

Upcoming Events

Dec. 13: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (West Philadelphia) -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2302
Jan. 3: Design Advocacy Group monthly meeting -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2395
Jan. 9: ZCC Informational Session: Presentation by Water Department -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2292

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

12-06-2007

Dear PlanPhilly member,

This week in planning and design news: the riverfront casinos move closer to construction, the Girard Warehouses continue to be threatened, Great Expectations completes its Citizens Convention, and the City Planning Commission begins its own process to develop Philadelphia’s first comprehensive plan in 40 years.

1. Pa. Supreme Court rules for SugarHouse

Read Kellie Patrick Gates’ comprehensive story to find out what the next steps will be for the casino interests and anti-casino movement following the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s opinion that SugarHouse is cleared to build on submerged land. Click here: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2352.

2. Inquirer reports on Girard Warehouses

Alan Jaffe’s PlanPhilly report last week about the extension the developers of the Girard Warehouses (http://www.planphilly.com/node/2307) received for shoring up the rear areas of historic buildings on Front Street is getting more media attention. The Inquirer’s Stephan Salisbury writes about the work in Thursday’s edition. Click here for the story: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/local/20071206_Deadline_delay_sought_in_Girard_Warehouses_repair.html.

3. Imagine Philadelphia meeting coverage

PlanPhilly covered the first two citizens forums conducted by the Philadelphia City Planning Commission as it begins the process of preparing our City’s first comprehensive plan in more than forty years.  The first meeting was held in South Philadelphia (http://www.planphilly.com/node/2354) and the second was held in Olney (http://www.planphilly.com/node/2357). Check out the ImaginePhiladelphia website for more information at www.imaginephiladelphia.org. PlanPhilly will cover next week’s events as well.

4. Full Citizens Convention coverage

Check out PlanPhilly’s full coverage of last Sunday’s Great Expectations Citizens Convention, including mayor-elect Michael Nutter’s keynote speech. Click here: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2316.

Upcoming Events

Dec. 12: Zoning Code Commission monthly meeting -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2291
Dec. 12: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (Northeast Philadelphia) -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2300
Dec. 13: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (West Philadelphia) -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2302
Dec. 19: Zoning Code Commission Informational Session: "Zoning and the Environment" presented by the Philadelphia Water Department -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2292

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

11-29-2007

Dear PlanPhilly member,

This week’s news in local planning and design:

1. Great Expectations Citizens Convention

Registration is closed for Sunday’s Citizen Convention, but check out PlanPhilly’s full outline of the draft Citizens Agenda for Philadelphia’s Future to be submitted to the new Mayor and City Council when they enter office.  Michael Nutter will give the keynote speech at the Convention.  Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2281.

In related news, check out Inquirer columnist Chris Satullo’s piece on Penn Project on Civic Engagement leader Harris Sokoloff, as he reflects on the recent work of Great Expectations and the Central Delaware Riverfront Planning Process: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2269.

2. Commerce Department rules in favor of SugarHouse

At a hearing on Tuesday, Philadelphia Commerce Director Stephanie Naidoff ruled that SugarHouse Casino has the right to build on submerged land within the Delaware River’s bed.  State Representatives intend to file an appeal shortly.  Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2293.

3. Girard Warehouse rehab delayed; extension granted

Clemens Construction Company has shored up joists and flooring but needs more time to seal open rear areas of historic buildings. Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2307.

4. L&I Deputy Commissioner presents to Zoning Commission

City Department of Licenses and Inspections deputy commissioner Eileen Evans spoke at the monthly Zoning Code Commission meeting about the current state of the department and potential future reform.  Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2304.

5. ImaginePhiladelphia meetings

The Philadelphia City Planning Commission is beginning the process of preparing our City’s first comprehensive plan in more than 40 years.  Check out the “Events” page on PlanPhilly (http://www.planphilly.com/event) for a list of scheduled meetings, or check out www.imaginephiladelphia.org for more information.

Upcoming Events

Dec. 4: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (South Philadelphia) -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2295
Dec. 5: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (North Broad Street) -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2298
Dec. 12: Zoning Code Commission monthly meeting -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2291
Dec. 12: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (Northeast Philadelphia) -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2300

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

Nov. 16

Dear PlanPhilly member,

The presentation of the civic vision for the central Delaware drew an overflow audience of 1,500 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

1. Check out the links below for full media, video and blog coverage.

Philadelphia Inquirer Architecture Critic Inga Saffron http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/20071115_Changing_Skyline___To_the_mayor-_elect__Look_to_the_river_plan.html

Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Jennifer Lin’s news story: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/local/11337306.html

Philadelphia Metro: http://philly.metro.us/metro/local/article/Considering_the_future/10747.html

PlanPhilly reporter Alan Jaffe’s news story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2233

Philly.com’s Great Expectations: http://blogs.phillynews.com/philly/greatexpectations/2007/11/the_future_of_the_waterfront.html

The Civic Vision opening video: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2260

Harris Steinberg’s presentation: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2262

Animated Civic Vision flyover: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2263

Reactions to the vision from civic associations: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2252; the development and planning community http://www.planphilly.com/node/2257  and the public at-large reacted to the vision http://www.planphilly.com/node/2251

Philadelphia Inquirer photographer Ed Hille’s photo slideshow: http://www.planphilly.com/showcase/267

Philadelphia Inquirer endorsement of Civic Vision:  http://www.philly.com/inquirer/opinion/20071111_Editorial___A_Plan_for_the_Delaware.html

Sandra Shea’s Daily News commentary: http://www.philly.com/philly/opinion/10883516.html

Chris Satullo’s Inquirer commentary: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/columnists/20071111_Center_Square___Citizens_invited_to_explore_values__vision_for_riverfront.html

2. In other news related to the central Delaware process:

Matt Blanchard writes about the critical lessons about scale of construction and access to the waterfront that can be learned from Hoboken and Jersey City. http://www.planphilly.com/node/2231

Kellie Patrick Gates reports how the Commerce Department indicates it will agree with SugarHouse and city's interpretation of 1907 law; legal challenges are readied. http://www.planphilly.com/node/2258

Upcoming Events
 
Nov. 20: Philadelphia City Planning Commission -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2187
Nov. 28: Zoning Code Commission -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2186
Dec. 2: Great Expectations Citizens Convention -- http://www.planphilly.com/node/2188

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor

Nov. 09, 2007
Dear PlanPhilly member,

The presentation of the civic vision for the central Delaware is fast approaching.  Join PennPraxis and the Central Delaware Advisory Group on Wednesday, Nov. 14, at 6 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Convention Center by registering today: www.planphilly.com/registration. Check out the link through Philly.com’s Great Expectations blog: http://blogs.phillynews.com/philly/greatexpectations/2007/11/a_civic_vision_for_the_waterfr.html.

For more information on the event, click here: http://www.planphilly.com/files/Flyer03_bw.pdf

In news related to design and planning:

1. Center City District Lights South Broad

Earlier this week, CCD, property owners and institutions use cutting edge lighting techniques to illuminate significant buildings on South Broad Street. http://www.planphilly.com/node/2195

2. Ed Bacon Foundation winners

Students from Temple and Drexel take home honorable mention prizes in 2nd annual Ed Bacon Foundation national design competition. http://www.planphilly.com/node/2189

3. Visual guide to zoning

PlanPhilly presents this Visual Guide to Zoning, an easy way to view the city’s zoning code. You’ll find clickable PDF files that explain each of the city’s 56 zoning designations with photos, maps, diagrams and regulations. Developed by the Planning Commission, they form an essential guide for anyone trying to keep up on the ongoing effort to reform Philadelphia’s zoning code. Click here for more: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2140.

4. New Feature

Every PlanPhilly news story will now end with a comment box. Give your feedback on stories we cover.

5. Symphony House

Michael R. Ytterberg, architect of Symphony House, wrote a letter to the editor of the Inquirer in response to a recent critique of the building by Architecture Critic Inga Saffron. http://www.philly.com/inquirer/opinion/pa/20071109_Taking_Exception.html

In news related to the Central Delaware Riverfront Planning Process:

1. Attorney Michael Sklaroff and consultant Craig Schelter pen a response to the Daily News’ editorial about the riverfront civic vision last week: http://www.philly.com/dailynews/opinion/THE_RIVERFRONT_A_CLEARER_VISION.html.

2. Northern Liberties resident Matt Ruben responds: http://www.philly.com/dailynews/opinion/20071107_A_waterfront_challenge.html

Upcoming Events

Nov. 10: Historical Society of Philadelphia - http://www.planphilly.com/node/2208
Nov. 10: Preservation Alliance - http://www.planphilly.com/node/2209
Nov. 14: Zoning Code Commission - http://www.planphilly.com/node/2143
Nov. 15: Sustainable Philadelphia - http://www.planphilly.com/node/2185
Nov. 15:  SugarHouse hearing - http://www.planphilly.com/node/2210
Nov. 20: Philadelphia City Planning Commission - http://www.planphilly.com/node/2187

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor