Pennsylvania Horicultural Society
- The Atlantic Cities relates a decade-long Penn study that offers some of the first statistical evidence that the “broken windows” theory is indeed valid. In Philadelphia, when vacant lots are cleared of debris, fenced in, and maintained, crime rates “significantly [fall] off.”
- NakedPhilly contributor GroJLart looks at what he calls the “Dead Zone,” a few blocks of the Logan section between 11th, Louden Street, and Roosevelt Boulevard. Over-zealous developers of the 1910s are responsible for the neighborhood’s unstable foundations, as homes have been leveled in the past two decades. Might it soon be a green zone?
- Steve Stofka’s Crossing the Lines evaluates Drexel’s architectural transformation, highlighting the designs for the Papadakis Integrated Sciences Building and the LeBow College of Business, wondering what such “Neobrutalist” architecture entails for built Philadelphia.
- Newsworks reports on the efforts of Germantown residents attempting to rebrand their neighborhood by “creating a sustainable arts district.”
- PhillyBricks discusses the vanishing notion of a South Street boutique as a museum in its own right. “Perhaps it’s our marginally successful Renaissance [of urban living] that has enabled us to retain a bit of grit.”
About the author
Stephen Currall recently received his BA in history from Arcadia University. Before beginning doctoral studies, he is pursuing his interest in local history, specifically just how Philadelphians engage their vibrant past. Besides skimming through 18th century letters, Steve is also interested in music and travel.
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