Riverfront buffer bill passes Philadelphia City Council hurdle

Philadelphia City Council is pushing new development back from the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers. 

Joe Syrnick, President of the Schuylkill River Development Corporation says the 50 foot buffer would decrease pollution running into the water and could provide space for a recreational trail.

“This bill with this amendment is a meaningful and prudent compromise by the various interest groups,” said Syrnick. “Through several years of the zoning code process various parties have worked hard to protect the environment and leave open the possibility of riverfront trails, yet make development less cumbersome, more streamed and hence easier.”

Craig Shelter, Executive Director of the Development Workshop is concerned the buffer would hurt one business he deals with.

“On the site a thriving electronic recycling business is growing in size layout and employment,” said Shelter.  “Under the ordinance as drafted they might be forced to move to a new location because their product handling is clearly not compatible with a public park or trail nor could they use their property to its full capacity.”

Next all of city council will vote on the measure. If approved, it would go to Mayor Nutter.