The New Urban Order

The Hottest New Real Estate?

Governments have started using the property they own to increase affordable housing. Canada is doing it nationally. Philly’s doing it … at 13th and Bainbridge

By Diana Lind
Development … For Good

“Diverse Thought Yields Better Results”

AR Spruce, led by Maleda Berhane, demonstrates how real estate development can — and should — incorporate more people from more backgrounds to remake our city

By Katie Gilbert

Philly, The First Startup, Makes a Comeback

Yes, we're still a city of cheesesteaks and Iggles. But we're also curing cancer and rebuilding a stagnant economy through the life sciences. How'd this happen?

By Charles F. McElwee

How Philadelphia’s Housing Market has Changed Since 2000

Newly released research from Pew reveals trends in Philly home prices, homeownership rates, and mortgage originations

By Octavia Howell

How Do We Salvage the UArts Debacle?

A longtime university president proposes turning the university’s Center City buildings into an arts community that would make the city a destination for practicing artists

By Elaine Maimon
Ideas We Should Steal

Incentivize Child Care in any Redevelopment of UArts Real Estate

Several states and New York City offer tax relief to landlords who create child-care facilities. Could a similar policy help bring workers back to Center City?

By Malcolm Burnley

Is Mayor Parker’s Favorite Housing Program Ready for a Glow-up?

The City’s Turn The Key workforce housing program has gained admirers for building homes affordable to middle income families. But can it really be the centerpiece of the city’s housing plan?

By Malcolm Burnley

A Progressive Arena Deal?

In Milwaukee, a sports arena deal has led to a pro-growth, pro-union, working class, cross-racial revival. Could it be a model for all development in Philly?

By Larry Platt
The New Urban Order

The Vacant Office Opportunity

Cities around the country are buying vacant office buildings to convert to housing or to meet other civic needs. Here’s why Philly should do the same

By Diana Lind

The Housing Opportunity Hidden in Plain Sight

When it comes to finding more affordable homes for their residents, Drexel’s Metro Finance Head says, cities should look at current housing stock, offer incentives — and move fast.

By Bruce Katz and Andrew Gibbs