Gentrifying Philadelphia

Guests: Nora Lichtash, Rahim Islam, Carolyn Adams

Philadelphia is gentrifying at an unprecedented rate. According to a recent analysis by Governing magazine, Philadelphia is the second fastest gentrifying city in the country. But what is gentrification, and what are its implications? For many, the term can mean that many low-income residents will face displacement and rapid hikes in property taxes. For others, the term can mean revitalization and neighborhood improvement. Today, we are joined by three guests who will parse the meaning of gentrification, how it can occur without detriment to long-time residents, and how to keep housing affordable in the city. We’re joined by NORA LICHTASH, executive director of the Women’s Community Revitalization Project and a member of the Philadelphia Coalition for Affordable Communities’ steering committee. We’ll also speak with RAHIM ISLAM, President and CEO of Universal Companies, a community development and education management company, and with CAROLYN ADAMS, professor in the Department of Geography and Urban Studies at Temple University.

AP Photo/Matt Rourke