hidden river philadelphia’s executive summary rediscovering

Prepared by:

Design, Planning & Environments Worldwide

Prepared for:The Schuylkill River Development CorporationMarch 2003

Funded in part by:The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources,Bureau of Recreation and Conservation; William Penn Foundation; US Army Corps of Engineers; PWD, OOW; National Park Service, RTC; Pennsylvania Dept. of Community and Economic Development; Philadelphia Dept. of Commerce; US EPA, Region III

Rediscovering Philadelphia’sHidden RiverThe Tidal Schuylkill RiverMaster Plan

Executive Summary

Acknowledgements As the new century establishes itself, we are looking at bright opportunities for positive change on the tidal Schuylkill River in Philadelphia.

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Rediscover the Hidden River Although heavy industry is gone and the factories are closed, the river reflects years of neglect, abuse and inaccessibility – a legacy shared by many industrialized riverfront cities east of the Mississippi.

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Creating a Vision: The Planning ApproachAs a result of an extensive, year-long public participation process, community workshops and meetings with stakeholders, a unified vision emerged to guide planning and development.

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A New Vision for the RiverPrepared in a collaborative environment with a task force of stakeholders including public and private agencies, organizations, institutions and individuals, the master plan is a blueprint for the river's bright future.

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Creating a GreenwayThe creation of a continuous greenway and trail system will enhance the Schuylkill River’s natural environment, increase public access by several miles and provide a multitude of recreational opportunities.

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Creating a Transportation FrameworkNew and improved roadway connections and new mass transit opportunities proposed in the master plan will unlock the river’s hidden treasures.

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Creating PlacesPublic and private interests have invested more than $300 million in the restoration of historic landmarks, residential real estate, public parks, trails and in planning for infrastructure and transportation improvements.

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Implementation StrategyThe Tidal Schuylkill River Master Plan maps the route for discovering the “hidden creek” and identifies projects and priorities for guiding physical improvements within the study area.

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Table of ContentsAs the new century establishes itself, we are looking at bright opportunities for positive change on the Tidal Schuylkill River in Philadelphia. Since 1992, the Schuylkill River Development Corporation (SRDC) has been working to revitalize the river for the benefit of current and future generations of Philadelphians.

Over the past year, with the support of the City of Philadelphia, we have been rediscovering opportunities to plan for and encourage improvements in the natural, physical and economic environment of the river. A matching grant of $500,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources set the stage for a comprehensive planning process involving communities, neighborhoods, corporations, foundations, and government agencies. The match, both contributions and in-kind services was provided by key partners. As a result, a common vision for the river’s redevelopment is now underway.

The Tidal Schuylkill River Master Plan provides a framework for the creation of a sustainable strategy for the long-term physical, social and economic development of the most urbanized segment of the river. Prepared in a collaborative environment with a task force of stakeholders – 44 public and private agencies, organizations, businesses, institutions and community members – the master plan is a blueprint for a hopeful future for the river and those who are drawn to it.

MDVA

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1 Rediscoverthe Hidden River

Nearly 130 miles long from its headwaters in the Blue Mountains of Schuylkill County to the tidewaters of the Delaware River in Philadelphia, the Schuylkill River is the largest tributary in the Delaware River basin, accounting for about a third of the Delaware’s flow. After Europeans first sailed the river in the early 17th century, it was christened “Skokil,” meaning “Hidden Creek,” by Arendt Corrsen of the Dutch East India Company.

The tidal Schuylkill River, stretching eight miles from the Fairmount Water Works to its confluence with the Delaware River, undergoes a daily tidal change of six feet between low and high tides. Once the manufacturing backbone of the city—now with much of the heavy industry gone and factories closed—the river reflects years of neglect, abuse and inaccessibility—a legacy shared by many industrialized riverfront cities across the country.

While much of the tidal portion of the Schuylkill River has been neglected, a number of important landmarks, parks, neighborhoods, businesses and institutions call the riverfront home. In total there are over 60,000 households, 113 train embarkments at 30th Street Station, and over 13 million gallons of oil processed at the Sunoco Company each day.

Taking a cue from the successful local redevelopment models of Penn’s Landing and the Camden waterfront and other exemplary efforts in Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Dayton, Chattanooga and Louisville, the Schuylkill River is ready for revitalization as a valuable urban resource in its own right. There’s no better time than the present.

Washington HarborWashington, DC

Dayton RiverscapeDayton, OH

Ross’s LandingChattanooga, TN

Louisville RiverfrontLouisville, KY

North Shore RiverfrontPittsburgh, PA

Existing Industry on the waterfront

Fairmount Dam and Water Works

The Schuylkill River at Center City

Inactive Sunoco Property

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Rediscover the Hidden River

Creating a Vision: The Planning Process

A New Vision for the River

Creating a Greenway

Creating a Transportation Framework

Creating Places

Implementation Strategy

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Promote Greenway and Trail DevelopmentTrail and greenway corridors are recognized for their environmental, recreational and aesthetic value. The Schuylkill River system, on both the east and west banks, will

connect with the larger system that continues north along the river and links with other trails and greenways such as the Schuylkill River trail, the East Coast Greenway, the Tinicum-Fort Mifflin/Mingo Creek trail, the Historic Mill Creek Greenway and the Botanic Trail (“High Line” Park extension).

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Improve Environmental QualityA high-priority Philadelphia Water Department goal is the continued improvement of water quality. Action items include eliminating sources of pollution and restoring

natural systems through storm water management; increasing awareness and stewardship through educational programs; and increasing water activities. In addition, the master plan recommends floodplain and wetlands protection, improving wildlife habitat and establishing guidelines for sustainable development.

New residential loft space along the river

Build Public/Private PartnershipsThroughout the planning process, community members voiced strong support of the need for local development as a means to providing an economic anchor in the

neighborhoods and long term investment. The master plan envisions the public and private sector working closely together to develop some of the key parcels along the river. The public/private relationship is crucial to guiding and implementing the long-term development process.

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Wetland Restoration at Historic Bartram’s Garden

2 Creating a Vision:the Planning Process

Provide Access and TransportationOne of the reasons the Schuylkill is underutilized as a recreational destination is its inaccessibility. Over the years barriers have been erected that cut neighboring

communities off from the river, the most obvious of these being railroad tracks and the Schuylkill Expressway. Another obstacle is occupation of riverfront property by private corporations that restrict public access. The Tidal Schuylkill River Master Plan envisions reducing the division between neighborhoods and the river by creating and improving pedestrian access, promoting civic uses and making improvements to the transportation system.

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Develop a Distinct CharacterPeople remember good times and want to relive them again and again, so providing areas for public gatherings along the riverfront is vital to creating unique

destinations. Equally important is the preservation and enhancement of open space such as wetlands, habitat and interpretive sites. The design of new areas must take into account the surrounding built and natural environments as well as the cultural and historic factors that characterize this urban waterfront. Public art projects can play a vital role in creating a unique character, already a long-standing Philadelphia tradition.

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Build Strong CommunitiesFor the Schuylkill River to become the focal point of existing and new waterfront neighborhoods, development has to incorporate live, work and play scenarios. The

way to build and nurture strong communities is by preserving the best of what is already there, take advantage of opportunities for infill construction, offer a range of housing types and provide the type of mixed-use development that has proven successful in attracting a new demographic. Proposed projects should balance affordability and financial equity.

3.

As a result of an extensive, year-long public participation process, community workshops and meetings with stakeholders, a unified vision emerged to guide planning and development. The process included a number of key milestones. Stakeholders and community members were engaged to help develop the vision, provide input on the issues along the river, comment on alternative “idea maps,” and assess the draft plan and priority projects. The following diagram illustrates this process.

University Corner, Charlottesville, VA

Lights on the Center City Bridges

River Liffey Promenade, Dublin, Ireland

Celebration Village, Celebration, FL

The master planning process was initiated to provide a vehicle to promote the active use and enjoyment of the river corridor; restore natural river ecosystems; empower communities through neighborhood and economic development; and foster an ethic of civic pride and stewardship in residents. Supporting these all-encompassing strategies are six guiding principles that give the master plan structure and direction and which also function as evaluation criteria for each project proposed for the waterfront. These guiding principles are described on the facing page.

Stakeholder VisioningWorkshop

Data Collection and Analysis

StakeholderInterviews

Public Outreach

FinalPlan

IdeaMap#1

IdeaMap#2

IdeaMap#3

Design Workshop

StakeholderInput

DraftPlan

TechnicalInput

JUNE 2001 NOVEMBER 2001 JULY 2002

Master Planning Process Diagram

PHASE 1DATA COLLECTION

AND ANALYSIS

PHASE 2DEVELOPMENT OF

“IDEA MAPS”

PHASE 3PRELIMINARY MASTER PLAN

PHASE 4FINAL

MASTER PLAN




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Residential Development

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3 A New Visionfor the River

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Highway Access to Fort Mifflin from Points North

Improved Pedestrian Connections to Trail Systems along Kelly and West River Drives at River Bridges

Improved Pedestrian, Vehicular Way-Finding and Streetscape Improvements to Philadelphia Zoo and Art Museum

Coordinated "Schuylkill Gateways" Plan

Schuylkill River Trail and Greenway

New Residential Development with Access to the Riverfront at Naval Home and Kennedy Building

Forgotten Bottom Neighborhood Revitalization

New Vehicular Ramp Linking Grays Ferry Avenue and Lindbergh Boulevard

New Roadway and I-76 Overpass Between South and West Philadelphia

New Roadway Through Sunoco Property Linking University City and the Navy Yard

New Railway Linkages through Development on East and West Banks

Grays Ferry Avenue Streetscape Improvements

Lindbergh Boulevard Streetscape Improvements

Historic Mill Creek Greenway Connection to the Schuylkill River Trail and Greenway

"High Line" Park Extension (Botanic Trail) to Mill Creek Greenway and Schuylkill River Trail and Greenway

Cultural Facilities (Industry Museum, Performing Arts Center) at US Gypsum Site

Passyunk Crescent Residential and Commercial Waterfront Development

Sunoco Property Riverfront Park (Boat Launch, FishingPier, Picnicking, Habitat Restoration, Great Lawn)

Harkness Point Open Space (Habitat Restoration,Boat Launch, Expanded Italian Gardens)

Girard Point Maritime Center (Marina, Boat Storage, Boat Repair, Sailing School, Boat Auction, Police Marine Unit)

Pedestrian Access from F.D. Roosevelt Park to Girard Point Maritime Center Under Industrial Railroad Tracks

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Reconfiguration of the existing Kennedy Building for mixed-use development. Note the pedestrian access to the riverfront over the existing CSXT railroad tracks

Aerial view of the Schuylkill River Trail at the Trigen Power Plant – note the preservation of the existing crane

500 0 500 1000 2000




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EAerial view of the proposed Forgotten Bottom Waterfront Park

Aerial view of the proposed the seasonal restaurant and boat docking facility at the former waterfront motel site

CConceptual illustration of the proposed South Street Bridge pedestrian access ramp

FThe U.S. Gypsum site presents opportunities for developing cultural facilities that preserve and inter-pret the Schuylkill River’s industrial history, similar to Landschaftpark Duisburg-Nord in Duisburg Germany

H River beacons could create a unique iden-tity for the Schuylkill River, opportunities for civic art, and identify neighbor-hood connection points, similar to Dayton, Ohio’s riv-erfront

GGreenway/trail development along Passyunk Cres-cent could be similar in character to Dayton, Ohio’s riverfront

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Commercial Development

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F.D. Roosevelt Park

NavyYard

Fort Mifflin

First Union Center

Veteran's Stadium

Woodlands

Philadelphia Art Museum

Boathouse Row

Rittenhouse Square

Logan Circle

University of Pennsylvania

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Kingsessing Rec. Center

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Base Map Data Provided By: The Schuylkill River Development Corporation

Trail Connection to the Tinicum-Fort Mifflin/

Mingo Creek and Cobbs Creek Trail

Systems

Trail Connections to Existing Schuylkill River

Trail System

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The character of the greenways and trails will vary to complement existing surroundings and provide a basis for the future development of riverside parcels. Physical aspects will range from formal promenades and paved paths to unpaved trails through natural habitats. Greenway design will integrate modern shoreline stabilization practices including bioengineering using shrubs and trees, which double as enhanced wildlife habitat.

Work on the greenway and trail system has already begun. Construction of the trail between Fairmount Water Works and the Twin Bridges is complete and construction of the trail to Locust Street, including pedestrian access ramps at Market and Chestnut Streets, began in 2002. The completion of the Schuylkill River Park trail will create a safe, attractive bike and pedestrian link between Fairmount Park and Center City.

4 Creating a Greenway…

...Trails, Open Space,

The proposed greenway trail continues south along the eastern bank of the Schuylkill to the Grays Ferry Bridge and along the edge of the Forgotten Bottom neighborhood, providing it with park space and waterfront access. The trail will then cross the river via the Grays Ferry Bridge, with an improved pedestrian path on the bridge itself and an access ramp connecting the trail and bridge on both the east and west banks. The next trail segment heads south to Historic Bartram’s Garden and Passyunk Avenue. In the long term the trail will continue south, terminating at Fort Mifflin.

In addition to trails, larger open space areas are proposed for the greenway at key points such as Schuylkill River Park, parks adjacent to Forgotten Bottom, Historic Bartram’s Garden and the proposed “Great Lawn” on the Sunoco property. These would become important community amenities for surrounding neighborhoods and city dwellers in general.

Greenway/Trail

Pedestrian Access Ramps fromBridge to TrailTail System Connections

Neighborhood Access

River Beacon and/or Art Opportunity

Freight Rail Line Adjacent to Trail

Existing Open Space

Spiral staircase leads to the Schuylkill Riverfront

New trail construction linking Schuylkill River Park and Fairmount Water Works

PATH Trail System, Atlanta, GA

Pathways at Fort Mifflin

Greenway and Trail Development Plan

San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge

…Wildlife Habitat

The creation of a continuous greenway and trail system linking Fairmount Park and Fort Mifflin will enhance the Schuylkill River’s natural environment, increase public access by several miles and provide a multitude of recreational opportunities. New streets, improvements to existing streets, and pedestrian bridges and ramps will link adjacent neighborhoods and communities to the river and greenway trail system. The greenway trail system will also connect to the East Coast Greenway, a national trail network extending from Maine to Florida.




Creating a Greenway


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F.D. Roosevelt Park

Navy Yard

Fort Mifflin

Historic Bartram's

Garden

First Union Center

Veteran's Stadium

Dupont Labs

Woodlands


Fairmount Water Works

Boathouse Row Eastern State

Penitentiary

Rittenhouse Square

Logan Circle30th Street

Station


Clark Park


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Base Map Data Provided By: The Mayor's Office of Information Services and the

Philadelphia City Planning Commission

Trail Connection to Mill Creek

Greenway

Trail Connection to East Coast

Greenway

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5 Creatinga TransportationFramework…Industrial land use requiring few connections between road and river characterizes the banks of the Schuylkill, thus hampering access and new development. Transportation solutions proposed in the master plan will rectify the situation over time, unlocking the river’s hidden treasures. Key elements of the transportation framework include:

Improved connections east of the Schuylkill River These include the construction of new road segments that create a continuous road from the University Avenue Bridge, through the eastern edge of the Sunoco property, connecting with 26th Street and then reaching the Philadelphia Navy Yard. In addition, a road running east-west connecting from 61st Street through the Sunoco property, across I-76 to Lanier Park, is proposed. Improved connections west of the Schuylkill River These include the construction of a road between Grays Ferry Avenue and Lindbergh that will facilitate access between Center City and Southwest Philadelphia. In addition, the plan identifies the continuation of the east-west road across the Schuylkill River to 61st Street.

…Roadways

…Mass TransitNew mass transit options that link with the current system These improvements include a light rail line connecting with the station adjacent to the Woodlands, then running south though the Sunoco property and west across the proposed bridge and potentially connecting to the R1, R2 and R3 lines. This line can also run east connecting to the Broad Street line.

River AccessUse of the river as a transportation corridor is a key element within the long-term vision. The plan identifies a number of places for docking, marinas and other river access. These opportunities include existing public docks (Fort Mifflin), planned public and private docks (Fairmount Water Works, Historic Bartram’s Garden, Center City Marina) and future river access opportunities at Schuylkill River Park, the Walnut Street Bridge, the Sunoco property and near Girard Point at the mouth of the Schuylkill River.

The Schuylkill Expressway (I-76)

Landscaped Boulevard, Liverpool, UK

The pedestrian environment across existing bridges could be improved

River Thames Ferry System in London

New Landscaped Boulevard

New Roadway Connection

Improvements to Existing Roadway

Existing Highway

Highway Interchange Improvements

New Passenger Railway Network

New Pedestrian Bridge

New/Existing Bridge or Tunnel with Improved Pedestrian Access

Transportation Improvements Plan

Existing trolley system in University City

New Intermodal Transfer Station




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F.D. Roosevelt Park

Navy Yard

Fort Mifflin

Historic Bartram's

Garden

First Union Center

Veteran's Stadium

Dupont Labs

Woodlands


Fairmount Water Works


Penitentiary

Rittenhouse Square

Logan Circle30th

Street Station


Clark Park



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S p r u c e S t .

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Philadelphia Zoo

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In a city that has long defined its central business district on the east and west by river boundaries, it takes vision to imagine that the western boundary – the Schuylkill – can be transformed from an edge to a center. Fortunately, there are many that have this vision and are working diligently to make it a reality. In the past five years alone, public and private interests have invested more than $300 million in the restoration of historic landmarks, residential real estate, public parks, trails and in planning for infrastructure and transportation improvements. We anticipate that more than $2 billion will be invested in the next five to ten years in order to:

CreatingPlaces...6

Create park facilities for public concerts, picnics and festivals Along the length of the tidal Schuylkill the master plan illustrates opportunities for a variety of public spaces. These include greenway sitting areas, small parks in established neighborhoods like Forgotten Bottom and larger open spaces such as the event lawn illustrated on the Sunoco property. There are also a number of cultural and historic sites like Historic Bartram’s Garden and Fort Mifflin that are capable of accommodating similar functions.

Revitalize and preserve existing neighborhoods There are many neighborhoods located along the Schuylkill but there is only one within the study area – Forgotten Bottom. The master plan recommends the redevelopment of some of the industrial land bordering this neighborhood as open space and residential, including infill housing. ...Work, &

Existing loft apartments on the banks of the Schuylkil River

Manchester City Center, Manchester, UK

Create new residential and commercial development New residential and commercial development at Passyunk Crescent will help link the Southwest Philadelphia community with the river and provide opportunities for people to live, work and play along the river.

Provide employment opportunities The redevelopment of the Sunoco property north of Passyunk Avenue is a critical element in the revitalization of the Schuylkill River. A master plan illustration depicts the site as an active commercial and mixed-use area linked with surrounding communities.

Improve wayfinding and the public environment A system of interpretive elements along the river will also be developed so that the trail system becomes a vehicle for discovery and learning about the heritage of the Schuylkill River and Philadelphia.

DTC Crescent Park, Denver, CO

Charming Philadelphia neighborhood

Lakewood Festival Area, Lakewood, CO




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...to Live,

...Play

Center City Philadelphia

Schuylkill River Trail Fairmount Water Works to Forgotten Bottom

South Street Bridge Access Ramps Pedestrian ramps connecting South Street to the Schuylkill River Trail

Grays Ferry Bridge Pedestrian Environment ImprovementsPedestrian Lane Widening and Beautification/Public Art

Boat Docking FacilitiesWater access opportunities including boat docks, boat tie-ups, and marinas

Historic Sites Way-Finding System (not shown)Signage to improve visibility and access to historic sites

Naval Home Proposed residential development

Washington Avenue Parcel: Phase IProposed 30,000 square foot flex development

Steen and Adjacent PropertiesProposed mixed-use, restaurant, and marina development

University Avenue/Wharton Street Sites Proposed commercial development

Forgotten Bottom Sites: Phase IProposed rehabilitation of existing housing

National Heat & Power SitesProposed office or light industrial uses

Fish Ladder Structure to improve passage of fish swimming upstream at Fairmount Dam

Southwest Water Pollution Control Plant Wetland restoration at water detention ponds

Floatables Collection Boat and DockBoat to skim debris from outfalls below Fairmount Dam

Tidal Schuylkill as the "Working River” Multiple sites interpreting the river's industrial heritage

Schuylkill River Trail West bank greenway and trail development from Grays Ferry Avenue to Passyunk Avenue

Grays Ferry Avenue Bridge Access Ramps Pedestrian ramps connecting Grays Ferry Avenue to the Schuylkill River Trail

Botanic Trail ("High Line" Park Extension)Thematic trail improving pedestrian access between the river and the zoo

Historic Mill Creek GreenwayThematic trail system connecting neighborhoods to urban water resources

Tinicum-Fort Mifflin/Mingo Creek TrailGreenway and trail development connecting the Schuylkill River Trail with Fort Mifflin, the

John Heinz Wildlife Preserve, and the East Coast Greenway New Schuylkill River and Expressway Crossing

Vehicular and pedestrian bridge crossing over Schuylkill River and sunken Expressway creating direct access to new development on east and west banks

Lindbergh Boulevard/Grays Ferry Ramp Vehicular ramp creating connection between Lindbergh Boulevard and Grays Ferry Avenue

Schuylkill BoulevardNew and existing roadway improvements through

Sunoco property linking University City and the Navy Yard

New Pedestrian BridgesNew pedestrian bridges provide access and public art opportunities

Light Rail ExtensionLight rail spur route and intermodal transfer stations connecting regional rail

and subway systems

Streetscape ImprovementsImproved pedestrian and way-finding environment along "river boulevards”

43rd Street Access to RiverPedestrian access over railroad tracks linking Mill Creek Greenway (19), Botanic Trail (18),

and Schuylkill River Trail (20)

Industrial Railroad Track and East Side Yard RelocationRelocated railroad tracks on the east bank would provide safe

pedestrian access to the riverfront

Boat Docking FacilitiesWater access opportunities including boat docks, boat tie-ups, and marinas

Highway Access to Fort MifflinImprovements to existing interchange would provide clear vehicular access

Kennedy Building Mixed-use, residential development with river access

Washington Avenue Parcel: Phase IIProposed 30,000 square foot flex development

Forgotten Bottom: Phase IIresidential infill development

Sunoco PropertyProposed mixed-use and light industrial development

Passyunk CrescentResidential community and commercial core along 61st Street

U.S. Gypsum SiteCultural facility, industrial museum and performing arts center

Former Waterfront Motel SiteSeasonal restaurant and office uses

Girard Point Maritime CenterWater related development including marina, boat storage, boat repair, sailing school, boat

auction, boat building school, police marine unit

Harkness Point Reforestation and Open Space Reforestation and open space development on former waste dump site, expanded Italian

Gardens, gardening school

Sunoco Property Riverfront Open SpaceRiverfront park and open space that includes boat launch, fishing pier, picnicking, active

recreation, habitat restoration, great lawn

Short-Term Implementation Projects

Long-Term Implementation Projects

16

Implementationstrategy7

A revitalized Schuylkill River is within reach. It will not happen overnight or without a lot of hard work and the commitment of the city, area landowners, residents, institutions and businesses. It demands vision, innovation, creative financing, leadership, community participation, dedication and the forging of a public/private partnership. It also demands time. Philadelphia is capable of this and much more.

A key player in the implementation of this ambitious endeavor is the Schuylkill River Development Corporation (SRDC), a non-profit organization founded in 1992 whose mission it is to achieve positive change on the river for the benefit of the city, region and Commonwealth. To fulfill this mission, SRDC seeks to create a sustainable strategy directed to the long-term physical social and economic health of the tidal Schuylkill River. Within that framework, an operating strategy is at work that emphasizes the importance of alliances, joint ventures and close cooperation with federal, state and city agencies.

The Tidal Schuylkill River Master Plan maps the route for discovering the “hidden creek” and identifies projects and priorities for guiding physical improvements within the study area. In essence, it is a framework for future decision-making and a tool for coordinating public and private investment for maximum impact.

The master plan incorporates and addresses ongoing initiatives within the corridor and presents an organized approach to redevelopment. A phasing plan (right) reflecting development priorities and focusing the energies of stakeholders and partners proposes short-term (up to five years) and long-term (six to fifteen years) actions. Full implementation will occur over a ten to twenty-year period. Shown below are the cost benefits of the master plan in both the short and long term. It is anticipated that the total tax benefit to the City of Philadelphia over a 25-year period could reach $419,035,000 for short-term implementation projects and $1,036,820,000 for long-term implementation projects.

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Greenway/Trail Projects

Access and Connectivity Projects

Private Development

Ecological Restoration/Water Quality Projects

Interpretation/Education Projects

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91011

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Short-Term Economic Benefit Summary

Office SpaceFlex SpaceMarina/Boat Storage

RetailRestaurants

Anticipated Development ProgramResidential Units 1,274 Units

80,500 SF11,000 SF

604,500 SF130,000 SF

200 BoatsStructured Parking 1,515 SpacesDevelopment Value

Post-Development Value $466,850,000Unabated Value $26,180,000Job CreationAnnualized Construction Jobs 1,922Permanent Employment 2,921

Annual Taxes (Abatement Period)Annual Taxes (Post Abatement Period)

City Tax BenefitConstruction Related Taxes $12,105,000

$9,148,000$21,030,000

Office SpaceFlex Space/Industrial Space

RetailRestaurants

Anticipated Development ProgramResidential Units 2,000 Units

1,450,000 SF3,000 SF

422,000 SF1,950,000 SF

Sports Fitness Complex 100,000 SFIndustrial Heritage Museum 50,000 SF

Development Value

Post-Development Value $950,400,000Unabated Value $71,100,000Job CreationAnnualized Construction Jobs 4,445Permanent Employment 7,546

Annual Taxes (Abatement Period)Annual Taxes (Post Abatement Period)

City Tax BenefitConstruction Related Taxes $32,795,000

$25,047,000$50,237,000

Marina/Boat Storage 200 BoatsStructured Parking 1,200 Spaces

Long-Term Economic Benefit Summary

Total Construction Costs $288,310,000

Total Construction Costs $666,705,000




Creating a Greenway


Creating Places


Acknowledgements



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500 0 500 1000 2000

THE SCHUYLKILL RIVER DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONBoard of DirectorsChairmanGerard H. Sweeney *President & CEO–Brandywine Realty Trust

Vice-ChairmanDr. Constantine Papadakis *President–Drexel University

SecretaryJohn Francis Gough * Montgomery, McCracken, Walker & Rhoads

TreasurerMelissa Heller *Director of Economic Development–Philadelphia City Council

Directors:Stephanie Branche Mid Atlantic Federal Partners, Urban Smart Growth Coordinator–EPA

James J. Cuorato *City Commerce Director, Philadelphia Department of Commerce

Paul Drayton, Jr.Chief Executive Officer, DRPA - President, PATCO

Paul GaudiniChief of Project Planning Bureau, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Edward HazzouriDirector, Public Affairs - Delaware Valley - Sunoco, Inc.

Frank JiruskaVice President, Customer and Marketing Services - PECO Energy

Kumar KishinchandWater Commissioner - Philadelphia Water Department

Peter S. LongstrethPresident - Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation

Robert Nix IIIPresident - Fairmount Park Commission

Major General Clifford L. StanleyExecutive Vice President, University of Pennsylvania

* Executive Committee Members

Staff:Louise Turan, Executive DirectorTiffany Hodge, Community Relations ConsultantHelen Fox, Comptroller

THE TIDAL SCHUYLKILL RIVER MASTER PLAN PARTNERSPennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation

Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development

William Penn Foundation

Philadelphia Department of Commerce

Philadelphia Water Department, Office of Watersheds

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

National Park Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region III

THE TIDAL SCHUYLKILL RIVER MASTER PLAN TASK FORCECenter City DistrictNancy Goldenberg–Paul Levy

City of Philadelphia, Office of Strategic PlanningKaren Butler–Vivian Pleasants–Christopher Zearfoss

Community Ventures, Inc.Stephen Kaufman

Delaware River Basin CommissionPamela Bush–Carol Collier

Delaware Valley Regional Planning CommissionPatricia Elkis

Drexel UniversityDr. Claire Welty–James Ianerella

DuPont AutomotiveWilliam Gillan–Matthew Page

Eastwick PACMickey Ehlo–Maggie Powell

Environmental Protection Agency Region IIIStephanie Branche

Fairmount Park CommissionStephanie Craighead

Greater Philadelphia FirstLaurie Actman

Grays Ferry Community CouncilJames Lieb

Historic Bartram’s GardenWilliam LeFevre–Tim Storbeck

Kingsessing Advisory CouncilTom Henry

Legg Mason Real Estate ServicesCody Kushner–Christopher Rink

Montgomery, McCracken, Walker & RhoadsJohn Francis Gough, Chair

National Park Service, Rivers and TrailsDavid Lange–Helen Mahan Forester–Sherry Peck–Julie Bell

Office of City Council PresidentKathleen Murray

Office of City Councilwoman BlackwellAlisa Orduna-Sneed

Office of Housing and Community DevelopmentSherene Brooks–Eugenia Burgos–Larry Lane

Philadelphia City CouncilThe Honorable Darrell Clarke

Philadelphia City Planning CommissionWarren Huff–Bennur Koksuz–Ghazal Saadat-Lajevardi

Philadelphia Department of CommerceDuane Bumb–Jon Edelstein–Sara MerrimanMjenzi Traylor–Bilal Qayyum

Philadelphia Industrial Development CorporationSharon Barr–G. Craig Schelter

Philadelphia International AirportMark Gale–Fred Pourki

Philadelphia Water Department, Office of WatershedsGlen Abrams–Lauri Brunton–Joanne Dahme–Howard Neukrug

Point Breeze Performing Arts CenterDonna Brown

Point Breeze FederationMamie Nichols

Schuylkill Center for Environmental EducationTracy Kay

Schuylkill River Greenway AssociationDixie Swenson

Southwest Community Development CorporationDonna Henry–Bill Yeats

Southwest Community Enrichment CenterKatie Cofey

Southwest Community ServicesStanley Richardson

Sunoco, Inc.Edward Hazzouri–Joseph Kelly

The Academy of Natural SciencesJay Pennie

The Greenspace AllianceMark McGuigan

The Pennsylvania Horticultural SocietyJ. Blaine Bonham–Kathryn Newland–Gretchen Trefny

The Philadelphia SchoolLois West

The William Penn FoundationDiane Schrauth–Deena Parham

U.S. Army Corps of EngineersJennifer Brace–Paul Gaudini–Carmen Zapille

U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban DevelopmentJohn Carpenter

University of PennsylvaniaTom Lussenhop–Charles Newman–Jack Shannon

University of the Sciences in PhiladelphiaElizabeth Bressi-Stoppe–Stanley Richardson

Vare Middle SchoolLarry Stier–Erin Cunningham–Steve Madjeska–Earthforce

SPECIAL THANKSSpecial Thanks to the Commonwealth:Secretary John C. Oliver, PA DCNR

Secretary Samuel A. McCullough, PA DCED

Secretary David E. Hess, PA DEP

Deputy Secretary Richard Sprenkle, PA DCNR

Bureau Director Larry Williamson, PA DCNR

Recreation and Parks Advisor Michael Schneider, PA DCNR

Special Thanks to Philadelphia:The Honorable John F. Street Mayor

James J. Cuorato Director, City Department of Commerce

Mjenzi TraylorDeputy Director, City Department of Commerce

Duane BumbDeputy Director City Department of Commerce

Maxine Griffith, Executive Director, City Planning CommissionJoseph Syrnick Chief Engineer, Philadelphia Department of Streets

Gary HackDean, Graduate School of Fine Arts, University of Pennsylvania

Howard NeukrugDirector, Philadelphia Water Department Office of Watersheds

And a Very Special Thanks to:Founder and former SRDC President, John Randolph; John Francis Gough, Chair; Charles Ludwig, Vice Chair, and the SRDC board members who made extraordinary contributions to the mission of SRDC and provided the leadership to secure funding for and undertake creating a new vision for the tidal Schuylkill River.

Carol BrooksCity of Philadelphia, Commerce Department

Barbara GreenfieldAlbert M. Greenfield & Co., Inc

Brian EdmondsJulian J. Studley, Inc.

Carl DranoffDranoff Properties

David FaheyThe Binswanger Companies

Gail HarrityPhiladelphia Museum of Art

Jeremy Sabloff, Ph.d.University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Joseph CascerceriDrexel University

Joseph KellySunoco Refining Inc.

L. George HeniseeThe Cheswold Group

Peter Nalle

Charlie Bohnenberger Salem Associates

Karen RandalThe Jerde Partnership, Inc.

Thomas J. Reilly, Jr.

William E. Mifflin

CONSULTANT TEAMEDAW, Inc.Prime Consultant

Brown & Keener Urban DesignUrban Design

Urban PartnersEconomic Planning

Urban Engineers, Inc.Marine and Civil Engineering

Justice and Sustainability AssociatesCommunity Outreach

Fox & Fowle ArchitectsArchitecture

Karin Bacon Events, Inc.Event Planning

BioHabitats, Inc.Wildlife Habitat Analysis

Margie Ruddick LandscapeLandscape Architecture

History NowHistoric Overview, Interpretive Opportunities

Unless otherwise shown, all photography and illustrations by EDAW, Inc.

18

Acknowledgements8




Creating a Greenway


Creating Places


Acknowledgements

The Schuylkill River Development Corporation2314 South Street

Philadelphia, PA 19146tel (215) 985-9393 fax (215) 985-0101

www.srdc.net

hidden river philadelphia’s executive summary rediscovering

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