The New Urban Order

Transform a Curb; Change a City

But not just curbs. Cities also need updated org charts; all manner of transformation managers; CFOs and COOs, and, importantly: public pissoirs

By Diana Lind

What’s Hidden in Parker’s Housing Plan?

Mayor Parker’s $2 billion initiative to build or rehab 30,000 affordable homes includes $800 million in municipal bonds — which might come with their own hefty price tag

By Jade Craig
Ideas We Should Steal

More Democracy in Development Decisions

Some Philly Registered Community Organizations give individuals outsized power to shut down housing proposals in their neighborhoods. A better approach can be found in D.C.

By Jon Geeting

Is Trump Coming For Philly’s Housing Plan?

Inflation. Federal cuts. Labor shortages. Will Mayor Parker’s 30,000 affordable homes goal be thwarted by President Trump?

By Malcolm Burnley
The Fix

Breaking Promises to Old Buildings

The Historical Commission is charged with preserving Philly’s heritage. So why, a longtime urban strategist wonders, is it failing to enforce its own rules?

By Michael Greenle
Ideas We Should Steal

Five Ways SEPTA Can Save Itself

The transit agency does not have to face a “death spiral” every year. Here’s how other city systems are not just surviving, but thriving

By Courtney DuChene

In Defense of Market-Rate Housing

Yes, we need more affordable homes for more Philadelphians. This is an underlooked way to get there

By Jon Geeting

Why Can’t Philly Be More Like … Hong Kong?

A recent visit to the global center for commerce showed a visitor how public transit, electric cars and clean streets are all part of an abundance mindset Philadelphians deserve

By Nicolas Esposito

Home Repairs 2.0 Hits Harrisburg

Philly State Senator Nikil Saval is working on a bipartisan bill for a new state program to help around 2,500 homeowners each year stay in their houses

By Malcolm Burnley
The New Urban Order

An “Amazing” Experiment in School Safety

Philadelphia’s first “school street” pilot closed its dropoff and pickup street to vehicular traffic. It was as great as you might imagine

By Diana Lind