PlanPhilly weekly news recap 11-29-2007

11-29-2007

Dear PlanPhilly member,

This week’s news in local planning and design:

1. Great Expectations Citizens Convention

Registration is closed for Sunday’s Citizen Convention, but check out PlanPhilly’s full outline of the draft Citizens Agenda for Philadelphia’s Future to be submitted to the new Mayor and City Council when they enter office.  Michael Nutter will give the keynote speech at the Convention.  Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2281.

In related news, check out Inquirer columnist Chris Satullo’s piece on Penn Project on Civic Engagement leader Harris Sokoloff, as he reflects on the recent work of Great Expectations and the Central Delaware Riverfront Planning Process: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2269.

2. Commerce Department rules in favor of SugarHouse

At a hearing on Tuesday, Philadelphia Commerce Director Stephanie Naidoff ruled that SugarHouse Casino has the right to build on submerged land within the Delaware River’s bed.  State Representatives intend to file an appeal shortly.  Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2293.

3. Girard Warehouse rehab delayed; extension granted

Clemens Construction Company has shored up joists and flooring but needs more time to seal open rear areas of historic buildings. Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2307.

4. L&I Deputy Commissioner presents to Zoning Commission

City Department of Licenses and Inspections deputy commissioner Eileen Evans spoke at the monthly Zoning Code Commission meeting about the current state of the department and potential future reform.  Click here for the full story: http://www.planphilly.com/node/2304.

5. ImaginePhiladelphia meetings

The Philadelphia City Planning Commission is beginning the process of preparing our City’s first comprehensive plan in more than 40 years.  Check out the “Events” page on PlanPhilly (http://www.planphilly.com/event) for a list of scheduled meetings, or check out www.imaginephiladelphia.org for more information.

Upcoming Events

Dec. 4: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (South Philadelphia) — http://www.planphilly.com/node/2295
Dec. 5: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (North Broad Street) — http://www.planphilly.com/node/2298
Dec. 12: Zoning Code Commission monthly meeting — http://www.planphilly.com/node/2291
Dec. 12: Imagine Philadelphia public meeting (Northeast Philadelphia) — http://www.planphilly.com/node/2300

Best until next week,
Matt Golas, Managing Editor