Category skyline

What does the future hold for Germantown?

Germantown is a part of Philadelphia that is unique to almost anywhere else in the city. It has tons of history, incredible architecture, a functional Main Street, lots of public transportation options, close access to Fairmount Park, and beautiful tree lined streets.

Based on everything I just listed, it almost sounds like it should be a top neighborhood choice in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, it’s not. Why?

As stated in this article, Germantown lacks cohesiveness from its residents. After its largest community group (Germantown Settlement) went down in flames last year after the city discovered corruption and a total misuse of funds, the neighborhood is struggling to find firm footing. The good news is, they’re trying.

Germantown has the potential to be just as successful (if not more successful) than its 2 neighbors to the west, Mt Airy and Chestnut Hill, but it will need a solid plan of action to attract the right investors and concerned neighbors to follow through.

What’s in store for Market East?

Apparently, lots of potential changes.

Market East wants a new look. Not just the kind where sidewalks are repaired, new street lampposts are installed, and flashy news sidewalk banners promote the immediate area.

The city is looking for a complete overhaul.

New retailers (preferably big anchor ones), more street presence (because The Gallery is just not cutting it), and a glitzy, new Times Square look where advertisers will be lined up to invest in the US’ 4th largest media market.

Another North Broad St Project

They just keep on coming.

I can’t remember where I saw it, but I once read that the city was potentially going to name N Broad St the “Avenue of the Sciences”; what a great idea! To also call it “Avenue of the Arts” (like S Broad St) I think would not only be a wasted marketing opportunity, but it would dilute the brand for S Broad St.

Although there are places along N Broad St that would support the AOTA brand (i.e. PA Ballet, PAFA, etc.), there are also important institutions promoting science (i.e. Wagner Institute, Temple University, etc.).

The Uptown project should be great for N Broad St, but I personally believe the science route works better from a branding perspective.

Thoughts anyone?