Yesterday in Philly
Subject: Sinkholes, Shock Closures, and SEPTA Gets Paid
Schools, Streets, and That Rittenhouse Goodbye
Philly City Council just told the school district to scrap its plan for closing and renovating schools and start fresh (read more). Manayunk residents are pretty tired of the growing sinkhole on Connaroe Street – it’s still expanding. Meanwhile, Metropolitan Bakery in Rittenhouse is closing after 32 years in business (details), and Fishtown’s losing Vince’s Pizzeria on Frankford Ave (info). Rents on the horizon aren't getting cheaper.
Transit (and Traffic) Watch
SEPTA scored $5.5 million in federal funds to boost service during the World Cup (read more). If you’re crossing the bridge, Wilmington riders want their SEPTA ticket window back, but no dice yet. In Montgomery County, leaders moved to block ICE agents from county-owned properties — big implications for anyone dealing with immigration issues. Also: Kelly Drive saw another pre-dawn crash (here), add that to your detour list.
Philly Real Estate & Development
Willow Grove Park Mall has a huge chunk up for sale again (story), and Market East’s getting a new Mexican restaurant after the Sixers' arena plans fell through. Over in Fishtown, neighbors want city planners to preserve the remaining green space amid new development. If you’re obsessed with zoning drama, watch this space.
Food, Recalls & Openings
If Trader Joe’s frozen dumplings or focaccia are in your freezer, check for a recall (possible glass!) (info). Looking for new food adventures? Philly Mag wants us to make reusing old restaurants easier—seems right, given all these closings. Plus, a new scent store opened in Rittenhouse (link) and Insomnia Cookies landed at PHL Airport, just in time to fuel whoever overspent at the new perfume place.
Sports & Fun Stuff
Got Phillies fever? Opening Day watch party is set at Neshaminy Creek Brewing, and multiple previews dropped on the season ahead. Sixers fans: Jabari Walker stole the game against the Jazz (recap), but still… injuries. And: a women’s sports bar is coming to Broad St—yes, you read that right.
Quick Hits
- Philly’s crime stats actually dropped and the top cop says he knows why.
- Gas prices are up due to the Iran conflict, and national headlines are now officially messing with your budget.
- Events: Barnes Foundation First Friday brings jazz and cocktails, Easter Family Day at the Swedish Museum is coming up, and ArtPhilly (here) could be a major new citywide art festival.
That’s it for now—tell your neighbor about the sinkhole and your landlord that rents better not go higher just because a bakery closed.
