Photo: David Swanson, for The Inquirer
- The Nutter administration is making “modest but measurable gains in the collection of taxes, chipping away at a delinquency epidemic that is among the worst of any big city in the nation,” reports Plan Philly. Targets are being met, says City Revenue Commissioner Clarena Tolson, leading to an increased collection rate that will largely be dedicated to the School District. More sheriff sales per month and a standardized payment process explain much of this relatively impressive turnaround, and the legislation signed by Governor Corbett just last week allowing Philadelphia to lien out-of-county properties of delinquent owners will surely contribute.
- The Friends of the Wissahickon held a public meeting last week celebrating the accomplishments reached over the past few years in the Sustainable Trails Initiative (STI), which has extended the gorge’s trail network by 10 miles. Executive director Maura McCarthy then discussed the three-pronged approach that will guide the 1,600-member stewardship organization moving forward: continuing of STI, improving water quality, and a more robust regional (and even national) branding scheme for the sylvan haven.
- Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) crews unearthed at least six pine coffins yesterday at the William Dick Elementary School at 24th & Diamond Streets, says The Inquirer. It is supposed that the human remains were mistakenly left at the old Odd Fellows Cemetery (1849—1950) when the crews were making way for the Raymond Rosen public housing project, itself demolished in 1995. The PWD greening project will be delayed for an indefinite period of time as historians and archeologists look into the manner.
- Inga Saffron suggests a few possible solutions that would alleviate the parking woes of many in the city, while complying with the new zoning code’s goal of building up density. For one, the Parking Authority could increase parking stickers even more than it has (to $100 per car). In restaurant and entertainment neighborhoods, reserved parking could improve access; parking policy Donald Shoup argues that the PPA should switch to a “targeted parking system that uses airline-style pricing to nudge people to give up their cars. His approach would free up space for those who can’t exist without them, such as reverse commuter and the disabled.”
About the author
Stephen Currall recently received his BA in history from Arcadia University. Before beginning doctoral studies, he is pursuing his interest in local history, specifically just how Philadelphians engage their vibrant past. Besides skimming through 18th century letters, Steve is also interested in music and travel.
