Mayors: Common problems, similar solutions
March 28
Mayors and representatives from four industrial cities which have similar problems associated with crime, housing, planning, regionalism and infrastructure talked about the potential that some best practice solutions they are trying will have in spurring growth and success.
The well attended Morning with the Mayors session closed the three-day city planning conference that was sponsored by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, the gathering was titled, “Reinventing Older Communities: How Does Place Matter?”
While moderator Michael Nutter covered a wide range of subjects in relation to commercial revitalization, one example of a small city (Stamford, pop. 123,000) and a large city (Philadelphia, pop. 1.5 million) with similar visions was the waterfront plan being undertaken by the southern Connecticut town.
By creating a pedestrian friendly, accessible, mixed use development on 82 acres on Stamford’s South End, mayor Dannel Malloy said the city would create a public realm of parks and waterfront that would feature six upland pedestrian connections.
Following Malloy’s presentation, Nutter spoke of his efforts to elevate the role of planning in Philadelphia, citing years of neglect from previous city leaders in strategic thinking for the city’s built environment. Nutter has previously said transforming Philadelphia’s waterfront will be a priority for his administration.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.