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

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.

Santa Barbara Could Build Housing on County Land
County supervisors moved forward a proposal to build workforce housing on two county-owned parcels.

San Mateo Formally Opposes Freeway Project
The city council will send a letter to Caltrans urging the agency to reconsider a plan to expand the 101 through the city of San Mateo.

A Bronx Community Fights to Have its Voice Heard
After organizing and giving input for decades, the community around the Kingsbridge Armory might actually see it redeveloped — and they want to continue to have a say in how it goes.
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