Category reading viaduct

Philly’s new zoning code promotes sustainability

 
Although the new code will not officially be put into effect until August 2012, zoning reform advocates are stoked to see what it can do to simplify the process.

Since Philadelphia’s current zoning code dates back to 1962, which was when suburban development was very popular, there were about 1,000 spot changes made to it during the last 50 years. Although the city thought they were doing something good by making changes when they were needed, it just complicated things even more.

When the zoning reform process began back in 2007, the Zoning Code Commission decided to focus on 7 different goals:

  1. Simplify base districts
  2. Simplify overlay districts
  3. Simplify approvals
  4. Improve readability and reorganization
  5. Protect neighborhoods
  6. Promote sustainability
  7. Promote quality and design

Although the first 4 goals, seem to be more complete than the last 3 goals (as of now), “Promoting Sustainability” seems to be one that has been focused on. In the new code, walkable development, solar/wind systems, and storm water management all play a critical role in getting city approval. Bonus space may even be given to developers who’s project achieves LEED certification.

Needless to say, the new zoning code will be a huge improvement over what we have now.

Philadelphia’s “Loft District” is still going strong

Philadelphia’s self-proclaimed “Loft District” is a small, ex-industrial section just north of Center City in the 19123 zip code. Right next door to the southern end of Northern Liberties and the northern end of Old City.

Once known as a semi-rough, working class neighborhood filled with opportunities in manufacturing (as well as housing both a brewery and a circus), it has since changed into a creative class paradise. Large factories have been transformed into luxurious lofts for both buyers and renters, while also having studio space and businesses on the lower floors. With its easy access to Center City, as well as trendy neighborhoods like Fairmount and Northern Liberties, it’s no wonder why people are still moving to this small section in North Philadelphia.

Its boundaries are not set in stone, but they basically run from Spring Garden St to the north / Vine St to the south, Broad St to the west / N 8th St to the east. In other words, it’s not very large but very dense and full of opportunity. To top it all off, CCD’s proposed Reading Viaduct Project would be a huge anchor and could keep its momentum going in an upward slope.

Trendy restaurants/bars and artist venues are popping up left and right, and will most likely continue for the foreseeable future. Remember, most people moving to Philadelphia want to be in Center City; they just do what they can to avoid paying Center City prices.

Philadelphia’s “Reading Viaduct Project” featured in the New York Times

 

I have to be honest and say that this project would be huge for Philadelphia.

Not only would it show that we are super serious about investing in Center City and its surrounding neighborhoods, but it would help spur tons of new development.

Look at these positive stats (…so far) from the construction of NYC’s High Line:

  • Construction Cost = $153 Million | Newly Generated Development = $2 Billion
  • Since High Line construction started, 29 new projects surrounding it have either been built or are underway.
  • Its a huge draw for start-ups and creative companies.

Now, I’m not saying that Philadelphia would see the same numbers as New York, but I can almost guarantee that the benefits would far outweigh the costs.

Learn more by reading this article.