“The proposed gates would be replicas of gates designed for City Hall by the architect of the building, John McArthur Jr. in the late 19th century, but never fabricated of installed.” | Image courtesy of Vitella, via NewsWorks
- NewsWorks shares the designs for gates to City Hall’s courtyard. Architect John McArthur’s original 1869 vision for 20-foot high portal gates will replace the current incongruous cyclone fence by the end of the year.
- With production booming at the former Sunoco refinery on the Lower Schuylkill—rescued from oblivion in 2012 by Philadelphia Energy Solutions—the Daily Newsnotes the persistence of local residents’ concerns over air pollution. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, over 70% of all toxins wafting throughout Philadelphia’s skies come from the refinery. Yet, municipal politics don’t favor remediation, as mayoral candidates see no reason to alienate the steelworkers.
- The Mural Arts Program has accepted the Wissahickon Interested Citizens Association’s proposal for a mural along the retaining wall of the Wissahickon Regional Rail Station, reports the Roxborough Review. The piece, to be rendered by David Guinn, should be ready by the fall.
- Brandywine Realty Trust has added a bookend property to its significant holdings in Center City, says the Philadelphia Business Journal. The purchase of the five-story parking garage on the 600 block of Market Street by such an established firm points to the market’s confidence in Old City’s medium-term future, suggests reporter Natalie Kostelni.
- In order to promote the growth of businesses along Columbus Boulevard and the waterfront and maintain the quality of life for area residents, Councilman Mark Squilla is proposing a rule change requiring nightclub owners to provide valet parking in lots, says NewsWorks.
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.
