Philadelphia: City of the East
Philadelphia’s rise and fall over the 20th century mirrors that of many industrially-based cities in the central and eastern portions of the United States.
However, Philadelphia’s progression also includes recent and atypical success, including staunching population losses and generating economic development.Owing to innovative residential and commercial policy tools, political leadership, and significant diversity, Philadelphia has moved back into the 5th largest population slot, formerly held by Phoenix, Arizona.
A substantial and growing central business district facilitates development in all sectors and drives a large pedestrian, public transit, and green space presence.
Local government leaders are in the process of implementing three substantial city plans, all of which build on current city strengths, that
will shape Philadelphia’s underdeveloped industrial sector, support capital development, and assist in easing population increases.
This exhibit will
also recommend the implementation of policy tools based around increased involvement of Philadelphia’s strong education system, community involvement strategies, and the continuation of programs that have already been proven successful. While Philadelphia’s current public trajectory is promising, the implementation of policy tools and additional community development are essential for the continuing production of public goods for one of America’s largest cities.
