Vandalism spurs calls for better management of growth in Philadelphia

Two incidents of vandalism have Philadelphia officials working harder on ways to ease tensions in rapidly developing neighborhoods.

Vandalism of cars and apartments at Second and Jefferson in Kensington, about three blocks away from Northern Liberties is a sign of people upset with gentrification, said Council President Darrell Clarke who calls the actions unacceptable.

“We’ve got to make sure that we manage growth in a way that individuals that have lived in these communities all their lives continue to stay — that’s what we’re attempting to do,” Clarke said.

Mayor Jim Kenney had strong words for those who damage property.

“Vandalism to me is just atrocious, it’s worse than stealing something.  At least a thief has some understanding of the value of something,” Kenney said Tuesday. “A vandal is just a vandal.

“It’s unacceptable. We will investigate and prosecute to the fullest extent.”

Clarke said creating more affordable housing so fewer longtime residents are pushed out is one way to help prevent future incidents.