Top 5 stories to look for in Northwest Philly

Here’s a look at what’s to come this week in Northwest Philadelphia.

1. The new owners of the sprawling site at 3232 Henry Avenue – the former Eastern Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute – don’t have a formal plan yet for its transition into a campus for senior care and affordable housing. But Gail Kass, president and CEO of NewCourtland Senior Services, said the nonprofit organization will formulate a plan with the surrounding communities over the next year, and she’s open to suggestions. Check back for the full story.

2. Philly’s new bike share program, IndeGO, is backed by dollars from the city, state and federal government as well as Independence Blue Cross, the program’s lead sponsor. But the network itself, a product of multiple private partnerships, is Alison Cohen’s brainchild. And, more specifically, Bicycle Transit Systems, the Mt. Airy resident’s nascent company. Read more this week.

3. Philadelphia’s Department of Licenses and Inspections plans to demolish the Towne Playhouse on Ridge Avenue, one of the last theater buildings in Roxborough. Issued on Feb. 23, the permit approves consolidation of the properties at 5261, 5263 and 5265 Ridge Ave. Check back this week for the full story.

4. The street festival to kick off a season of festivals, Manayunk’s StrEAT festival returns this weekend. Check back for a full look at the day of crafts, artisans, vendors and food on Main Street.

5. Mt. Airy Art Garage is opening its latest exhibit titled, ‘My Son Matters.’ The exhibit features the work of Denise Allen and will consist of 35 portraits of African-American single mothers and their sons, with written declarations by those women. Check back for a look at the work.