The City Planning Commission has been working on a new comprehensive plan for the city which includes an analysis of municipal facilities, recommendations for future land use and infrastructure improvements that can incite development.
In June, the Commission adopted a citywide vision known as Philadelphia 2035. The last citywide plan was done 50 years ago, said Gary Jastrab, executive director of the City Planning Commission. The new plan will be in conjunction with the latest zoning code, slated to take effect in August.
During a special meeting today, the Commission presented two of 18 draft plans with over 70 recommendations for the West Park district which includes West Fairmount Park, City Avenue and Parkside. There were roughly 100 recommendations for the Lower South district which covers the Navy Yard, stadium complex and the Sunoco refinery.
The public has 30 days to weigh in on the plans.
Check out the press release below for more information:
Philadelphia, January 31, 2012– Mayor Michael A. Nutter and the Philadelphia City Planning Commission released two draft district plans for lower South Philadelphia and the area around City Avenue and West Fairmount Park. The district plans are open to public comment for the next month. In June 2011, the Philadelphia2035 Citywide Vision was adopted as the City's new comprehensive plan. It is part of an "Integrated Planning and Zoning Process" that also includes the district plans, the new zoning code, and the Citizens Planning Institute.
"The Philadelphia 2035 planning process along with these first two district plans exemplify my vision for the rebirth of planning in Philadelphia and engagement with neighborhood residents," said Mayor Nutter. "Community leaders in West Park and Lower South should feel empowered by the way they were involved and listened to during the preparation of these plans."
The Philadelphia2035 comprehensive planning process continues with the preparation of 18 district plans covering every section of Philadelphia. The first two of these plans are:
1) The Lower South District Plan, and
2) The West Park District Plan.
District plans recommend future land use and contain an analysis of municipal facilities. Development scenarios for key opportunity sites in each district are illustrated through urban design plans and renderings.
"The district plans have a key role in implementing the Philadelphia2035 Citywide Vision and guiding future investment in our neighborhoods and business districts," said Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Alan Greenberger, FAIA. "Amazing things can happen as a result of good planning supported by citizens who truly care about the future of the city."
The Lower South district covers the Navy Yard, stadium complex, Sunoco refinery and neighborhoods to the south of Packer Avenue. The draft plan calls for improved highway and transit access, well-designed housing for seniors and families, and better connections to parkland and the riverfronts. Exciting new restaurants and amenities will make the stadium complex a busy and more vital place at all times of the day and night. The Navy Yard will continue to expand as a first class business campus, and the port will add roads and shipping facilities to support job retention and the creation of new jobs in Philadelphia.
The West Park district includes West Fairmount Park, adjoining communities and the neighborhoods along City Avenue. Draft recommendations call for new mixed-use development on 52nd Street, Lancaster Avenue and Parkside Avenue, allowing Fairmount Park and nearby communities to improve in a coordinated and well-planned manner. Neighborhood playgrounds will be upgraded at locations most accessible to local residents, while City Avenue will develop into a more urban and pedestrian-friendly corridor at the city's edge.
Community engagement was conducted through a steering committee and three public meetings in each district. With the official release of the plans, public comment will be accepted until March 1. Final adoption of the district plans is scheduled for March 20, 2012.
The City Planning Commission Meeting also included the third graduation ceremony for the Citizens Planning Institute.
Extensive information about Philadelphia2035 and copies of the district plans are available at www.Phila2035.org and the "Philadelphia2035 Facebook page.