Ben Franklin Bridge ramp funding cut, city ice rinks reopen, distributing $30m in sheriff sale proceeds, Overbrook Farms Historic District vote postponed

The Inquirer reports that the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia wants funding to be restored to build a ramp to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge walkway. The Delaware River Port Authority cut funding for the Camden-side ramp, but advocates want it restored to complete safe connections to regional trails and to provide greater walkway accessibility. The Port Authority votes on its budget Wednesday morning.

City skating rinks were on thin ice because of budget shortfalls, three rinks were renovated instead of closed, thanks to a $13 million partnership with Department of Parks & Recreation and Ed Snider’s Youth Hockey Foundation. West Oak Lane’s Simons Ice Rink reopened on Friday after a renovation that fully enclosed the rink and added educational and public spaces, NewsWorks reports.

The state is trying to distribute $30 million of unclaimed proceeds from sheriff sales in Philly, the Inquirer reports. If a foreclosed property sells for more than its debts, the surplus is supposed to be returned to the former owner. Rather than being distributed, the money has piled up over 20 years. There is $7.8 million from sales prior to 2002 that is wholly unaccounted for. If individuals with legit claims to a piece of this pie don’t come forward the money will go to the state.

The Philadelphia Historical Commission surprised some Overbrook Farms residents when it notified property owners it was considering making the neighborhood an historic district, reports the Daily News. It was also a surprise that while it’s being considered for a district, property owners need to obtain a permit for exterior work from the historical commission to prevent demolitions and incompatible work from being slipped in before designation. Neighbors claim they weren’t aware of the districting plans, and Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr. requested the vote be postponed to give more time.

The Buzz is Eyes on the Street’s morning news digest.