Broad Street Brief: Novel PHLHousing+ Program Shows Strong Results

City Hall

City’s Novel PHLHousing+ Program Shows Strong Results

A new study finds that families receiving unrestricted cash through Philadelphia’s PHLHousing+ program were less likely to face eviction, homelessness, or poor housing conditions. Researchers say the pilot is outperforming expectations and could serve as a national model for rental assistance.

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Mayor Parker Advances City Funds to Restore SEPTA Routes Serving Students

Last Thursday, Mayor Cherelle Parker (D) authorized the advancement of part of the City’s $135 million SEPTA subsidy, including funds that were originally contingent on increased state support, to restore key bus and trolley routes serving students. The advanced funding, totaling up to $21 million, will be distributed in installments to cover approximately $1 million per month in service costs. Meanwhile, City Council President Kenyatta Johnson (D-District 2) and Transportation Committee Chair Mike Driscoll (D-District 6) issued a statement urging state lawmakers to resolve the budget impasse and commit to sustainable transit funding, and a Friday Common Pleas Court ruling temporarily blocked planned fare increases and Regional Rail service reductions.

Feet First Philly Offers Grants for Walkability Projects

Philadelphia residents and community groups can apply for mini-grants of $500 to $2,000 through Feet First Philly’s Public Space Enhancement Mini-Grant Program to fund small, public space improvements that promote safer, more walkable neighborhoods. Applications are due by October 1.

Gov. Shapiro, Mayor Parker Spotlight CTE Programs During Dobbins High Visit

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (D) and Mayor Parker visited Dobbins High School in North Philadelphia on Tuesday to highlight the importance of career and technical education (CTE) programs as viable alternatives to college and essential tools for economic mobility.

Around Town

William Penn Foundation Awards $10M to Counter Federal Funding Cuts

In response to what it calls “unjust policies and actions” under the Trump administration, the William Penn Foundation has issued nearly $10 million in emergency grants to support Philadelphia-area nonprofits facing federal funding threats. The grants aim to defend democratic values, sustain critical services, and encourage broader philanthropic action.

Hanwha Unveils $5B Plan to Revive Philly Shipyard

Korean industrial giant Hanwha detailed its $5 billion strategy to transform Philadelphia Shipyard into a high-output facility with new dry docks, cranes, and robotics, with the goal of producing up to 20 ships annually and boosting U.S. maritime strength.

New Xfinity Mobile Arena Signage Unveiled

Comcast officially revealed the new name and sign for the former Wells Fargo Center, now Xfinity Mobile Arena, during a ceremony featuring mascots and upgraded WiFi. The renaming marks a new era for the venue, home to the Flyers and Sixers.

Philly Water Rate Increases to Fund Infrastructure Upgrades

Philadelphia residents will see higher water bills starting this week as a 9.4% rate increase takes effect to support the City’s long-term Water Revitalization Plan and meet new federal water quality regulations.

Kensington March Honors Overdose Victims on Awareness Day

Community members marched through Kensington with photos, candles, and messages of hope to remember loved ones lost to overdose and advocate for harm reduction and recovery support.

Election Update

Rep. Cephas Enters Race for PA-03

State Representative Morgan Cephas (D-Philadelphia) launched her campaign for Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District on Wednesday. She is the third state lawmaker to join the 2026 Democratic primary following the announcement of U.S. Representative Dwight Evans’ impending retirement.

Suburban Spotlight

Budget Impasse Leaves Philly Suburbs Short on Social Service Funds

Philadelphia’s collar counties are missing tens of millions in state reimbursements for vital programs like mental health care and senior meals, forcing local governments to cover costs as Harrisburg’s budget stalemate drags on. Officials warn that prolonged delays could lead to service cuts and strain nonprofit partners.

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