New Philadelphia Mayor Pitching $300 Million for Parks and Libraries

Investment in public space is shaping up as a signature initiative for new Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney.

1 minute read

February 26, 2016, 10:00 AM PST

Jared Brey and Katie Colaneri report: "In his budget address next week, Mayor Jim Kenney will outline what could be a signature initiative for his first term: a major push to repair and improve parks, recreation centers, and libraries in neighborhoods across the city."

"The initiative would involve the city selling $300 million in bonds, plus securing funding from the state and federal governments and philanthropic foundations that could bring the total investment to around $500 million over the next few years," according to Brey and Colaneri.

The remainder of the article addresses the challenges of raising the money for the initiative, while also discussing the political specifics of how such an initiative could be achieved. Earlier this month, Mayor Kenney pleased bike advocates by pledging to build 30 miles of protected bike lanes and by appointing a "Complete Streets Commissioner."

FULL STORY: Kenney seeking $300 million in bond sales to spend on parks, rec centers, libraries

Thursday, February 25, 2016 in Philadelphia

Infrastructure Land Use Pennsylvania Philadelphia Parks Bond Funding Libraries Public Space View More

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