New research shows Philadelphia remains a city of homeowners but is less affordable than it’s historically been — over the last few years but also over the past two decades. Pew researchers analyzed nearly 700,000 records of home sales in the city from 2000 through 2021.
In 2000, low-cost homes — priced at $100,000 or less — accounted for about half of all transactions made by people who used a mortgage to buy. By 2021, that figure had plummeted to 3%. During the same span, more expensive homes — priced at $400,000 or more — rose from 3% of all transactions to 23%. Continue reading…
The city DA’s office said it will share news at 11 a.m. today in the death of cyclist Barbara Friedes, who was struck and killed while riding her bike in Center City last week. The 68-year-old man who was driving the vehicle has not yet been charged with any crimes. Safety advocates continue to push for change. Continue reading …
RECAP: What else happened?
$ = paywalled
• Philly Democrats say Kamala Harris’ entry into the presidential race brings new money, new enthusiasm and new volunteers. Meanwhile, education endorsements are slower to arrive, with the AFT on board, but the NEA holding back. [WHYY/Chalkbeat]
• Federal dollars are driving energy policy in Pennsylvania toward solar and hydrogen. [Spotlight PA]
• The Wells Fargo Center will need a new name in the fall of 2026 after the banking giant decided not to renew its naming rights deal. [Inquirer$]
• DA Larry Krasner announced a conviction for the January 11, 2022 slaying in Tioga of Melvin Hollimon, 21. [NBC10]
• Marine officials in Florida want to sink the SS United States, currently docked in Philly, and turn the retired ocean liner into an artificial reef. [PhillyVoice/Billy Penn]
• A $10M Fishtown sports and social venue brought on Tyrese Maxey and Andre Agassi as investors. [BizJournal$]
MAYOR WATCH
Mayor Parker will be joined by city officials and public health partners at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children at 10:30 a.m. for a bill-signing ceremony.
ON THE CALENDAR
✂️ Friday, July 26: Zine Friday
Philly youth are invited to learn how to make a zine — a small publication historically used to highlight the creativity, activism and issues important to marginalized communities. Snacks and drinks will be provided at Ginger Arts Youth Center in Callowhill. RSVP required. (3:30 to 5 p.m.)
⛪ Friday, July 26: Groundings exhibit opening
Christ Church Neighborhood House debuts an exhibit featuring research into the lives and everyday acts of resilience and survival by Black people, both free and enslaved in Colonial Philadelphia, many of whom were buried on the grounds. (7 p.m.)
🍺 Saturday, July 27: Smörgåsbeer
Trivia, lawn games, dancing, and a traditional quiz walk through the American Swedish Historical Museum in FDR Park, complete with regional and international beers alongside a Swedish-inspired dinner buffet. $35 in advance, $40 at the door. (6 to 9 p.m.)
Catch up on the previous week
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