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Streetscape Project taking a bit longer
The streetscape project at Midvale Avenue and Kelly Drive will be hanging around a bit longer than expected. There were problems with a few items. They led to a delay in the planting of the island. The contractor does not want to plant when the heat of the summer will kill many of the plants. So, the planting will be done when the weather is cooler. By the way, the contractor is responsible for maintaining the plant material for a year after the project is over. In the meantime, we can all enjoy the new street lights along East River Road and grand architectural signage on the island. SEPTA riders have begun using the new bench at the relocated K bus stop on East River Road (between Sunoco Station and Kelly Drive). A few adjustments were needed because of the new traffic pattern. This will continue until the project is completed.
Farmers’ Market
The EFDC has brought a farmers’ market to the Riverfront Business District through Farm to City. The market is now operating under the Twin Bridges every Saturday from 10am to 2pm. We have two farmers: McCann’s – which brings produce and fruit and Stoudts’ Wonderful Good, which brings breads and cheese. Ridge Flats
The project slated to be built along the 4300 block of Ridge Avenue is moving forward. The developer, Onion Flats, is working to obtain financing for the project. The Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority is working with them and plans to sign an agreement with Onion Flats in the fall. The project will have about 130 apartments and retail space on the first floor along Ridge Avenue and Calumet Street (across from the BP/Dunkin Donuts). It’ claim to fame will be that it does not use any more energy than it generates on site from sources such as solar power. Part of the way it will achieve this goal is by designing the buildings in such a way as to significantly reduce the amount of energy that is needed to heat and cool. Storefronts
The East Falls Development Corporation and Paul Furlong, Attorney at Law, teamed up to improve Mr. Furlong’s storefronts at 3728A Midvale Avenue. We share office space here, including with our friends the East Falls Historical Society. The improvements are wonderful and are supported by the City’s Commerce Dept. Because the plantings are new, you won’t see the full growth that is intended. But in the very near future, the wisteria will overhang on the pergola, giving us a ‘green’ look and helping keep the office cool. The window glass is highly reflective and insulated. The project was designed by Sharon Jaffe, with construction by Michael Labetti. Plantings and watering system came from Urban Jungle. Please stop by and check our great looking office digs. These buildings were built in about 1930. Like many buildings in the neighborhood, they have great bones but needed updating
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