Top 7 stories of the week in NW Philly

Here’s a look at what you may have missed:

1. Alumni, community disappointed as Germantown High expansion idea goes unheeded

The School District of Philadelphia told NewsWorks this week that Roosevelt Middle School in East Germantown will become a K-8 school. IIIt currently serves students in sixth through eighth grade. The news was a blow to those who have rallied to keep Germantown High open next year. Check out Aaron Moselle’s story for more details.

2. Which Philly neighborhoods are hardest-hit by tax delinquency?

Holly Otterbein and Elizabeth Fielder revealed this week that the Eighth Councilmanic District has the dubious distinction of having the largest tax delinquency bill in the city. The duo spoke with City Councilwoman Cindy Bass, who leads the Northwest Philadelphia district, and other councilmembers about the growing problem. Check out their story to learn more.

3. Limo model puts visitors where JFK sat during assassination

Students at Philadelphia University in East Falls are in process of constructing a one-of-a-kind exhibit piece for a larger one focusing on the late U.S. Arlen Specter’s work on the Warren Commission. It’ll be part of what’s being dubbed “The Assassination Room.” Check out Aaron Moselle’s story for more details.

4. NW Philly residents form alliance against proposed treetop adventure course in the Wissahickon

A group of residents aren’t happy about a project proposal from the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation that would bring a treetop adventure course to Northwest Philadelphia. The outdoor attraction, they argue, would compromise the area’s ecosystem. Check out Alaina Mabaso’s story to learn more.

5. Turrell Skyspace installation begins in Chestnut Hill, meetinghouse set to open in June

Work on the centerpiece of the Chestnut Hill Friends Meeting’s new home recently got underway. The site-specific design element by world-renowned artist James Turrell will open to the sky via a retractable roof. Check out Jana Shea’s story for more details.

6. Germantown Town Hall will temporarily re-open next month

Hidden City Festival organizers hope to open the early 20th century building to the public for the first time in more than a decade. The Germantown Avenue space won’t be opened simply for folks to have a look around. Check out Thomas Zamonski and Parissa Zecher’s story to learn more.

7. Visitors get an inside look at Chestnut Hill’s famed Vanna Venturi House

On a stretch of street tucked behind Pastorius Park sits a post-modernist home by one of the most notable American architects of the 20th century. In advance of a PBS-special featuring the private-property, the unique house was opened up to the public for a guided tour. Check out Neema Roshania’s story to learn more.