Germantown Avenue | Photo: Theresa Stigale
- Efforts to restore the currently defunct Germantown Special Services District (SSD) are proving controversial to local property owners. The 12% hike in property taxes would provide for beautification programs. “What we’re trying to do is improve the neighborhood. That’s the bottom line,” says Marcus Heppinstall, a Germantown resident and member of the steering committee. If approved by City Council, the SSD could resume as early as July.
- During a recent excavation for an elevator shaft of a PATCO station, workers unearthed a forgotten wall of an aborted Center City subway line from a century ago. The wall was demolished after historical research determined that the Delaware River Port Authority was under no legal obligation to preserve it.
- According to Roxborough-Manayunk Patch, the Department of Parks and Recreation wants to construct a Treetop Adventure Course within the canopy of the Wissahickon Valley Park in order to “educate youth about forest ecosystem and provide healthy outdoor recreation”—and bring in $40,000 to $50,000 a year for the Department.
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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