Weekly recap
This week in Council
June 9 to June 15, 2023
Coming up: public hearings
Committees hear testimony before voting. Open any bill and tap the bell to get a reminder the day before.
Monday, November 9, 2:00 PM · Committee on Streets and Services
City Council Introduces Bill to Convert Dupont Street to Two-Way Traffic from Baker to Smick.
City Council votes to make Dupont Street a two-way street from Baker Street to Smick Street, starting from the westernmost portion of Baker Street.
250099
Eighth Councilmanic district imposes time limits on parking of large vehicles on public streets.
Eighth Councilmanic district restricts parking of large vehicles, including boats and RVs, to no more than 3 hours on public streets unless posted otherwise, citing public safety concerns.
260765
Drexel Institute of Technology seeks permission to install street tree planters along 3001 Chestnut Street.
Drexel Institute of Technology is seeking permission to install 28 street tree planters along its property line at 3001 Chestnut Street, with 4 planters encroaching onto Ludlow Street.
260761
Homeowners exempt from fines for missed trash collection days when city fails to collect on time
Homeowners can breathe a sigh of relief if the city misses trash collection days, as a new bill would exempt them from fines for missed pickups. The proposed change would cancel fines and provide refunds for payments already made.
260698
City to vacate Hartwell Lane and reserve water main and public utility right of way
Hartwell Lane is set to be vacated and a right of way reserved for water main and public utility purposes, with the city to accept a grant under certain terms and conditions.
260801
Property owner seeks permission to install 17 concrete planters along Walnut Street sidewalks
Property owner seeks permission to install 17 concrete planters along Walnut Street sidewalks, including 7 on the east curbline of South 19th Street. The planters will be located near the property line of 1849 Walnut Street.
260797
Civic Center Boulevard to be Renamed Roberts Way at Two Intersections Near Osler Circle
Osler Circle near Civic Center Boulevard and Curie Boulevard is set to be renamed Roberts Way at two intersections, according to a bill sponsored by Councilmembers Gauthier and Landau.
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South Philly Italian Kitchen owner seeks permit for sidewalk café at 2655 South 18th Street location.
South Philly Italian Kitchen owner seeks permit for sidewalk café at 2655 South 18th Street location, with plans for 12 tables and 36 seats, pending compliance with city regulations.
260830
Boats and large vehicles can be towed or immobilized after 30 days of street parking.
Philadelphia's streets will soon have new towing rules, allowing large vehicles, boats, and vending carts to be towed or immobilized after 30 days of street parking, as Councilmember Squilla introduces new regulations.
260854
Tuesday, November 17, 10:00 AM · Committee on Rules
Philadelphia Code Amended to Impose Use Restrictions Within Fifth District Overlay District
Philadelphia's zoning regulations are getting a makeover in the Fifth District Overlay District, imposing new use restrictions on specific areas. Certain types of buildings and activities will be allowed in designated areas.
260764
Philadelphia Business Hours Restricted in Fifth District Neighborhoods
Philadelphia businesses in the Fifth District and surrounding areas will be restricted from opening between 11pm and 6am due to an amended ordinance. New streets affected by the restriction include N. 29th Street from W. Dauphin to W. Huntingdon.
260697
Philadelphia Tightens Rules on Removing Heritage Trees from City Streets
Philadelphia's rules for removing heritage trees from city streets are about to get stricter, making it harder to remove these trees without meeting specific conditions or replacing them. Heritage trees must now be documented in a landscape plan and can only be removed with special permission.
260689
Philadelphia's Zoning Laws to Get Overhaul of Retail Sales Use Categories Definitions
Philadelphia's zoning laws are getting an update, with changes to how grocery stores and pharmacies are classified under the retail sales use category definitions. The changes will be reflected in use tables throughout the city's zoning code.
260688
Zoning Designations Changed in Area Bounded by Lehigh Avenue and Aramingo Avenue Streets
Councilmember Squilla's zoning bill changes designations in a neighborhood bounded by Lehigh Avenue, Belgrade Street, Aramingo Avenue, and Miller Street, altering uses and development in the area as shown on Maps 'A' and 'B'.
260800
Zoning designations changing in area bounded by Rubicam Street, Ashmead Street, Wakefield Street, and Bringhurst Street.
Zoning changes are coming to a specific area of Philadelphia bounded by Rubicam Street, Ashmead Street, Wakefield Street, and Bringhurst Street, as authorized by Councilmember Bass.
260855
Retailers must meet specific standards and be located in certain districts for tobacco sales.
Philadelphia's zoning code is set to change, requiring tobacco retailers to meet specific standards and be located in certain districts. The new rules aim to regulate tobacco sales throughout the city.
260851
City Council Expands Center City Business Uses in Old City Residential Area, Core
Businesses like restaurants and tattoo parlors will now be allowed in Old City's residential area without special permission, as long as they meet certain conditions.
260896
Old City Special Services District Approves 7-Year Plan for Business Improvements and Services
Councilmember Squilla's bill approves a 7-year plan for the Old City Special Services District, outlining estimated costs and assessment methods for business improvements and services in the area.
260895
Tuesday, November 17, 1:00 PM · Committee on Transportation and Public Utilities
Wednesday, November 18, 10:00 AM · Committee on Law and Government
Wednesday, November 18, 1:00 PM · Committee on the Environment
City to Sign 4-Year Contracts with Major Waste Management Firms under Certain Terms and Conditions
Philadelphia is set to sign 4-year contracts with Waste Management, Republic Services, and ReWorld Sustainable Solutions to collect and dispose of municipal waste, with the option to extend for up to 3 more years.
260794
City to Enter Agreements with Vendors to Process and Market Recyclable Materials
City Council approves deals with vendors to process and market recyclable materials, boosting the city's recycling program. The agreements are the result of a comprehensive request for proposals from the Sanitation and Procurement Departments.
260793
Became law
Spruce Street Café Expansion Approved for 4333 Location with Rules on Seating and Parking
Philadelphia small business owners near the University of Pennsylvania can breathe easier now that the city council has greenlit an expansion for the popular Spruce Street Café, pending approval of a plan to squeeze in 20 extra seats along the sidewalk.
230444
No Parking: New City Council Ruling Takes Effect Blocking Cars Along North 34th Street
This law prohibits parking on N.
230439
City Officials to Widen Ridge Avenue Through Northeasterly and Southwesterly Sections of Philadelphia's City Plan
Ridge Avenue residents are in for a change as plans to widen their street move forward, with construction expected to disrupt traffic and daily routines along this bustling corridor.
230438
New Parking Rules Take Effect in Four Philadelphia Neighborhoods
This bill establishes new parking regulations in specific areas of Philadelphia, including restrictions on time and location for parking on certain streets.
230436
New Bike Lane Installed on North 2nd Street from Race to Market Streets in Philadelphia
This bill creates a new bike lane on North 2nd Street from Race to Market Streets in Philadelphia, removing one travel lane and requiring 'No Stopping Anytime' parking restrictions on the east side of the street.
230417
Bike Lane Installed Along East Market Street from 2nd to 6th Streets
This bill authorizes a bike lane on East Market Street from 2nd to 6th street and adjusts parking regulations in the same area.
230416
Bike Lane Plan Rolls Out on Bartram Avenue as Council Approves Bike Lane Designations and Parking Changes
This bill creates a designated bike lane on Bartram Avenue from 84th Street to Essington Avenue and changes parking regulations in the area.
230409
Planters and Seating Areas Permitted on Certain Streets in Philadelphia Under New Ordinance
Philadelphia's Restaurant Workers Will Get More Paid Time Off for Inclement Weather Under Proposed Council Bill Under the proposal, food service workers would be guaranteed paid time off during severe weather events, including snow days, thunderstorms, and heatwaves.
230406
City Tightens Parking Reins on Busy North Philly Streets to Curb Congestion Amid Resident Complaints
Fed-up North Philadelphians Win Small Victory: Parking Restrictions Coming to Troubled Streets; Longtime residents say new rules will finally ease congestion on busy Norris, Page, and Monument streets. New Parking Permits in High-Demand Neighborhoods: Philly Council Approves Ordinance Requiring Commercial Vehicles to Display Stickers After 10 Residents Cite Safety Concerns.
230405
City Approves Contract for Sewer Work on Troubled North Newkirk Street Corridor
Residents who live in the flood-prone row homes along North Newkirk Street are finally getting relief from chronic sewage backups, thanks to a new city contract that will replace outdated pipes and infrastructure.
230404
City Extends Deadline for Vacating Montour Street after Years of Delay
Philadelphia Council Bill Would Let More Tenants Pay Lower Rent, Affecting Thousands in Affordable Housing Program. The proposed legislation would reduce rent burden for low-income families by adjusting payment standards for Section 8 housing subsidies.
230402
Streets Department Gains Power to Impose Parking Rules Along Busy Stretch of Walnut Street in West Philly
This bill allows the Streets Department to establish parking restrictions on Walnut Street between 40th and 63rd streets through regulations, including loading zones up to 80 feet per block.
230359
New Parking Restrictions Hit North Philly Neighborhoods Amid Concerns Over Safety and Traffic Congestion
This bill changes parking regulations in a specific area of Philadelphia by making certain streets 'no stopping any time' and tow away zones.
230358
Northern Liberties Business District Gets Greenlight for Solar-Powered Lighting along 2nd Street Corridor
A brighter future is coming to a stretch of Northern Liberties: a new law gives the Northern Liberties Business Improvement District permission to install energy-harvesting lights along 2nd Street, reducing costs for business owners and homeowners alike.
230326
Lighting Up North Beach: City Council Approves Pedestrian Light Poles for 1325 N. Beach Street Business
A North Beach business gets greenlit for lighting upgrades: City Council votes to permit new pedestrian light poles and planters outside a 1325 N. Beach Street storefront, boosting safety and aesthetics.
230325
City Council Renames Bridesburg Park After Congressman Robert A. Borski Who Fought For Riverfront Revitalization
Philadelphia Homeowners Must Disclose Lead Paint Hazards in Properties Under New Safety Measure Proposal. Home sellers across the city will be required to disclose known lead paint hazards on their properties under legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable families with young children.
230324
Trucks Banned from Parking Along Belmont Avenue Between Monument Road and Conshohocken Avenue Streets
Residential drivers face higher costs as Philadelphia City Council introduces legislation to increase metered parking fees, boosting revenue for city coffers but sparking concerns over affordability for long-time residents and small business owners.
230320
City Allows Planter Installations Along Walnut Street Near Drexel University Campus
Walnut Street Cafe Owners See Boost in Business with Proposed Parking Meter Reprieve Under new city guidelines, parking meters along 22nd Street from South to Market would be turned off between 6pm and 10am, a move that could bring more customers to the area's restaurants and shops.
230306
Saint Joseph's University Expansion Clears Council Hurdle as Zoning Maps Are Redrawn Locally
A proposed expansion at Saint Joseph's University is one step closer to reality as city council members voted to redraw local zoning maps to accommodate a new residence hall and student center, sparking concerns about neighborhood overcrowding.
230302
Truck Parking Ban Takes Hold Along N. 51st Street and Brown Street Amid Traffic Flow Concerns
This bill prohibits truck parking on Brown Street and surrounding areas near N.
230275
Parking Restrictions Imposed on Camac Street and Johnston Street with Two-Hour Limit
This bill establishes a new parking regulation in the vicinity of Camac Street and Johnston Street, requiring two-hour parking from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Monday through Sunday.
230274
City Extends Deadline for Compliance on Revamped Penrose Ferry Road Right-Of-Way Conditions
Property owners along Penrose Ferry Road are getting extra time to meet new requirements for utility easements, but some critics argue the extension will only delay progress on long-overdue upgrades.
230273
Carlisle Street Residents Face New Parking Rules as Council Approves Stricter Regulations
South Philly Business Owners Worry About Proposed Bill to Hike Minimum Wage for City Contractors Philadelphia's minimum wage would rise 25% for contractors working on city projects under new legislation that aims to boost local workers' earnings.
230272
City Tightens Penalties for Repeatedly Noncompliant Businesses Under New Law
This bill toughens penalties for businesses that repeatedly break city rules and redefines what a 'nuisance business' is.
230271
Parking Regulations Established in Philadelphia Neighborhoods Along Multiple Streets
Philadelphia Homeowners Face Higher Tax Bills Next Year After Council Vote to Hike Property Taxes by 2.5% Amid Rising Assessment Costs. The tax hike affects all property owners in the city, with varying rates depending on their assessment value and location.
230248
Big Rigs Banned from Philly Neighborhoods as Council Approves Residential Parking Ban
Frustrated residents breathe a sigh of relief as city council passes measure to ban big rigs from Philly neighborhoods, bringing an end to eyesore parking and safety concerns in residential areas near main streets.
230208
New Parking Restrictions Slap 2-Hour Time Limits on Chadwick Street and Washington Avenue Neighborhoods
This bill establishes new parking regulations in two areas of Philadelphia: Chadwick Street and Washington Avenue; and S.
230207
Trucks Banned from Parking on 66th Street Between City Avenue and Woodbine Avenue
Residents along 66th Street are breathing a sigh of relief as city council votes to ban truck parking, reducing congestion and noise pollution on the busy neighborhood street. Starting soon, trucks will no longer be able to pull over and park between City Avenue and Woodbine Avenue.
230206
Trucks Banned from Parking on Conshohocken Avenue as City Moves to Reduce Congestion on Bustling Street
This bill establishes 'no truck parking' regulations on both sides of Conshohocken Avenue between Monument Road and Falls Road, with signage to be posted consistent with this regulation.
230205
City Imposes New Parking Restrictions Along Popular Fairmount Neighborhood Streets
Philadelphia Residents Face Stricter Recycling Rules as Council Votes on New Composting Program The program would require residential households in the city's Northeast Philadelphia neighborhoods to separate food waste from regular trash, aiming to increase recycling rates by 30%.
230204
Philadelphia Launches New Parking Rules to Regulate Streets Across City Neighborhoods Daily
This bill establishes new parking regulations in specific locations throughout Philadelphia, setting time limits and restrictions for drivers.
230203
Parking Regulations Established in Four Philadelphia Neighborhoods with Varied Restrictions
Drivers in four Philly neighborhoods face stricter parking rules, with fines doubling for repeat offenders in areas where permits are now mandatory, affecting thousands of residents, commuters, and small business owners.
230202
Council Introduces Stringent Parking Rules for Multiple Philly Neighborhoods Amid Congestion Concerns
This bill establishes new parking regulations in various Philadelphia neighborhoods, including restrictions on time and day of week for parking on specific streets.
230189
Truck Parking Ban Enacted Along Lancaster Avenue Section to Reduce Traffic Congestion and Improve Safety
Residents along Lancaster Avenue are breathing a sigh of relief as a long-awaited ban on truck parking takes effect, aimed at easing congestion and reducing risks for pedestrians and cyclists in the busy corridor.
230188
Trucks Banned from Parking on Conshohocken Avenue Between Belmont and City Avenues
Tight Spaces Ahead: Philadelphia City Council's truck parking ban on Conshohocken Avenue kicks in today, forcing drivers to find alternative spots, with concerns raised about increased congestion and fines for non-compliance.
230187
Semitrailer and Truck Tractor Parking Restrictions Tightened in Residential Neighborhoods Citywide
This bill amends Philadelphia's parking regulations to prohibit semitrailers and truck tractors from parking on certain residential streets or in specific areas of the city.
230185
Truck Parking Banned on Port Royal Avenue Between Henry Avenue and Old Line Road
This bill establishes a 'no truck parking' regulation on both sides of Port Royal Avenue between Henry Avenue and Old Line Road in Philadelphia.
230151
City Council Greenlights Paving of Boston Place as Construction Crews Prepare to Roll Out Across Section.
This bill authorizes the paving of Boston Place between Tenth and Eleventh Streets in Philadelphia, requiring a contract or agreement with a bond to cover costs.
230129
Café Coming to Spring Garden: Council Approves Outdoor Seating for Busy Street Corner Spot
Bill allows a café at 425-449 Spring Garden Street to have outdoor seating and construction, subject to certain conditions.
230049
Fence and Structures Permitted at Rising Sun Avenue Location Near Caribbean Feast Restaurant
Homeless Shelter Expansion on Hold Amid Controversy Over Proposed Zoning Changes Near 11th Street and Washington Avenue A new proposal would rezone the area around the Philadelphia Center for Homeless Women and Children to accommodate a larger shelter, sparking fears about gentrification in South Philly neighborhoods.
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Newly introduced
Most bills go to a committee next, which must hold a public hearing before Council can vote.
City Council Moves to Ban Face Masks in Public Spaces Amid Growing Crime Concerns Downtown
Philadelphia City Council Unveils Plan to Mandate Paid Sick Leave for All Service Industry Workers by Next Summer, a move advocates say is long overdue but businesses warn could be devastating.
230510
City Prepares to Purchase Land for New Public Parks in Center City Amid Efforts to Expand Rail Park
Local Residents Worry About Increased Traffic as Council Considers Bill to Convert Broad Street into Pedestrian-Friendly Promenade A new plan to revamp Broad Street would dedicate three lanes of traffic to pedestrians and cyclists, potentially displacing businesses that line the busy thoroughfare.
230512
City Council OKs Sidewalk Café Permits For The Rook Manayunk on Bustling Cresson Street Corner
This bill allows a business called The Rook Manayunk at 4001 Cresson Street to install an outdoor sidewalk café with tables and seating for customers.
230511