Frankford Hall, 1210 Frankford Avenue | Photo: Dan Cox
- From 6 to 8 tonight, Frankford Hall presents “Urban Nerd Night,” where one can “hang out with urban planners, journalists, industrial designers, coders for democracy, people who work for SEPTA, educators, a hacker or two, a favela painter, cdc heads, and a science teacher who’s high school students make and test rocket fuel under the Reading Viaduct.”
- University City District is set to rework the 40th Street Trolley portal, landscaping the barren asphalt space “into an attractive, greened plaza that will serve as a more pedestrian and transit rider friendly gateway into University City and beyond.”
- Next American City looks at diverging options in planning an improved Washington Avenue, with the Planning Commission even treating the stretch as an “anomaly,” in that they are focusing efforts there even before the more inclusive district plan. Whatever the means, the shared goal is one of relevance. “We’re always on everybody’s fringe, so it’s not the core of their zone,” admits proprietor Tom Donatucci. “We’re falling through the cracks.”
- City Council provided for the “right balance,” says environmental advocate Andrew Sharp, in its controversial move to amend the zoning code to allow for more options in developing parcels within 50 feet from streams. Councilman Bobby Henon’s bill now permits “marine-related industry, marinas, utilities, and city-owned facilities” within the buffer.
- Naked Philly chronicles Headhouse Square, arguing that the Society Hill landmark (which began in 1804 as an early American fire house) typifies what mid-twentieth century urban renewal did right.
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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Why was urban nerd night not announced earlier ? I couldn’t make it this time , it sounds like SOMTHING I’d love to go to. Will they be having more ? I HOPE SO !
This from organizer Alex Gilliam:
Last night, based on popular feedback, Aaron and I decided to institutionalize it– 2nd Thursday, 6-8.30, Frankford Hall. Can you guys list it again next time?
We may have a special mini-event on December 1st, with a visit to North Philly for a special tour by our friends with the Philly Painting Project, our market canopy, and a trip to a local bar.