Broad Street Brief: NE Philly Recovers From Shocking Plane Crash

February 6, 2025

CITY HALL

City Council to Consider Labor Law Enforcement, Lead Paint Disclosure Deadline Bills

During Thursday’s meeting, City Councilmember Kendra Brooks (At-Large) introduced legislation to enhance City enforcement of labor laws and Councilmember Jeffery Young, Jr. (District 5) introduced a bill that would clarify the deadline for filing actions related to lead paint disclosure and certification in The Philadelphia Code.

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City Launches $5M Small Business Catalyst Fund

Philadelphia launched its Small Business Catalyst Fund, a $5 million initiative to support high-potential small businesses and entrepreneurs with grants of up to $50,000, aiming to drive inclusive economic growth.

Upcoming Committee Hearings

Philadelphia City Council holds several public hearings throughout the legislative calendar year. Watch here.

  • The Housing, Neighborhood Development & The Homeless Committee will meet on Tuesday, February 11 at 1 p.m. to discuss and hear testimony to examine the shortcomings of regional Area Median Income (AMI) in addressing Philadelphia’s affordable housing needs and explore adopting a locally defined AMI.

Around Town

Northeast Philly Businesses See Signs of Recovery After Plane Crash

Businesses near the site of Friday’s plane crash in Northeast Philadelphia — which killed seven people and impacted an estimated 343 nearby homes — are seeing a gradual return of customer traffic as road closures decrease. The City will be seeking state and federal aid for recovery efforts and is accepting donations for victims through the “One Philly Fund.” Federal investigators completed their on-site work at the crash site on Tuesday.

Mixed Reactions to Market East Revitalization Plans After Sixers Arena Pivot

Developers and industry experts have mixed feelings about the future of Market East now that the Sixers’ arena is no longer part of the plan. While some believe the absence of the arena allows for more flexible reimagining of the neighborhood, others argue that revitalization will be more challenging without the arena as an anchor. Ongoing efforts to transform the corridor  include a $16 million project to narrow Market Street and add bicycle lanes and proposed mixed-use development strategies for the Wanamaker Building.

Temple Acquires Terra Hall, Expanding Center City Campus

A U.S. bankruptcy court judge has approved Temple University’s $18 million purchase of Terra Hall, the largest former University of the Arts (UArts) building, to establish its new Center City campus. Bids totaling more than $20 million have also been submitted for UArts’ iconic Hamilton Hall, Anderson Hall, and Furness Hall.

$14M Project to Extend Schuylkill River Trail

A $14 million federal grant will fund the construction of the Wissahickon Gateway and Passyunk Connection, extending the Schuylkill River Trail to provide safer and more accessible routes for cyclists, walkers, and runners.

Philly, Kansas City Make Friendly Super Bowl Wagers

Institutions across Philadelphia and Kansas City — ranging from art museums, libraries, and zoos to restaurants and local businesses — are engaging in wagers, fundraising challenges, and a bit of friendly competition as the cities’ NFL teams prepare to face off again in Super Bowl 59.

Election Update

Dugan Outraises Krasner in Early Fundraising for DA Race

Former Judge Patrick Dugan raised $140,000 last year, surpassing incumbent Larry Krasner by $40,000, largely due to support from building trades unions. This early fundraising advantage suggests a competitive primary, with both candidates expected to attract significant financial backing as the race progresses.

Mayor Parker Builds Political War Chest with Strong Donor Support

Mayor Cherelle Parker raised $1.4 million during her first year in office, with significant contributions from organized labor and major Democratic donors. The mayor ended the year with $720,000 in the bank.

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