Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Publishes Year One Report

Delaware River Waterfront Corporation Year One Report

Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC) was formed on January 30, 2009 in an effort led by Mayor Michael A. Nutter to establish a new direction for planning and coordinating the development of the Central Delaware River Waterfront in Philadelphia. 

DRWC was reconstituted to be a new organization with expanded boundaries and responsibilities and a new Board of Directors intended to be small and efficient with relevant professional expertise.

DRWC is dedicated to the planning, design, development and management of the Central Delaware River Waterfront in Philadelphia, defined as the seven miles of waterfront between Oregon and Allegheny Avenues from I-95 to the Delaware River. The goal of the organization is to effectuate over time the transformation of the Central Delaware River Waterfront into a vibrant destination location for the recreational, cultural, port/industrial, and commercial activities of Philadelphia’s residents, workers, and visitors.

“When I took office, I wanted a waterfront development process that was open, transparent, professional, and ambitious. With DRWC I got what I wanted,” said Mayor Michael A. Nutter. “In just one year not only has DRWC achieved a great amount, but they have also done it with an unprecedented level of public and community engagement and have set us on a clear path to a vibrant, accessible waterfront that can be enjoyed by all Philadelphians. Congratulations to Tom Corcoran, President, Donn Scott, Chairman, and all the rest of the Board of Directors and staff of DRWC. Here’s to another great, productive year.”

At this time the Board and staff of DRWC are pleased to report the following accomplishments of the first year of operation.

First year higlights include:

• DRWC chartered and formed in January 2009 as an open and transparent organization
• Donn Scott named Chairman
• Tom Corcoran appointed new President
• Awarded 501(c)(3) status
• Funded, bid and awarded contract for new Master Plan for the Central Delaware River Waterfront
• Funded, bid and awarded design contract to create new pubic park on Pier 11, which will become the new Race Street Pier
• Funded and bid project to green a new, one-acre public space at the end of Pier 53
• Funded and expanded 18 year regional New Year’s Eve fireworks Celebration, adding earlier fireworks show at 6:00 pm in addition to the traditional show at Midnight
• Funded and produced over 50 free summer events on the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing
• Reopened Blue Cross RiverRink at Penn’s Landing for the 16th season