“Two skylights on the 1876 Furness and Hewitt building are to be replaced.” | Photo: Avi Steinhardt, for The Inquirer
- A Pennsylvania historical marker was unveiled yesterday outside the Sullivan Progress Plaza (1968) on North Broad Street, where Reverend Leon Sullivan spearheaded the opening of America’s first shopping center that was developed, owned, and operated by African Americans. “In America, it’s about the dollar,” mused City Council President Darrell L. Clarke, speaking at the dedication ceremony. “Rev. Sullivan preached that we have to invest in our community and our people.”
- NewsWorks reports that Philadelphia City Council is expediting the process of creating additional Keystone Opportunity Zones throughout the city, as the July enabling legislation passed in Harrisburg set an October 1 deadline for applications. According to Commerce Director Harold Epps, the bill that advanced out of committee recommends reduced tax burdens for vacant land in Northeast Philadelphia industrial parks, parcels in the Navy Yard, properties in University City and West Philadelphia, along with properties around Callowhill, portions of the former Budd Plant on Allegheny, and properties in American Street in North Philadelphia.
- Inquirer culture critic Peter Dobrin surveys the ongoing renovations at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, which announced today that it is half-way in reaching its $25 million capital campaign goal. Current and future projects include construction of a back-alley ramp entrance in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the replacement of two massive skylights on the Broad Street side of the main Furness and Hewitt building (1876), and “the creation of a new glass-triangle artist studio on the south side of the Hamilton Building facade that will allow passersby to watch artists at work.”
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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