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  • July 9, 2024

Weavers Way Co-Op Expands to Germantown: A Hub of Local Goodness and Opportunity

Weavers Way Co-Op is gearing up to open a new location right here in Germantown! This exciting venture promises to bring an array of benefits, including increased access to quality local food options, a boost in economic growth, and fresh employment opportunities that promise to invigorate the community.

Open House Success Sets the Stage

The recent Open House held at the soon-to-be Weavers Way Co-Op Germantown location, situated at 328 W Chelten Avenue, witnessed an incredible turnout of over 150 eager participants. Enthusiastic attendees had the unique opportunity to explore the space before the commencement of construction, gaining insights into the store’s plans and the cooperative philosophy driving it forward.

An Investment in Germantown’s Future

While at the Open House, Philadelphia Department of Commerce Director Anne Nadol, alongside Councilmember Cindy Bass, unveiled a $1 million city investment earmarked for the new Germantown location. This strategic move, backed by the efforts of Commerce’s Office of Neighborhood Economic Development team, reflects a commitment to fostering local businesses and propelling our community toward a brighter future.

Left to right: Anne Nadol (Philadelphia Department of Commerce Director), Emaleigh Doley (Germantown United CDC Executive Director), James Onofrio (Senior Director CDC Programs, Office of Neighborhood Economic Development), Karen Fegely (Deputy Commerce Director, Office of Policy and Strategic Initiatives), Yvonne Boye (Deputy Commerce Director, Office of Neighborhood Economic Development).

Anticipation is building as the construction phase readies to kick off in the upcoming months. Following suit, the recruitment process for pivotal management positions will be in full swing, paving the way for meaningful employment avenues within the community. Germantown United CDC will also play a key role, hosting informative sessions for local business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs keen on stocking their products on the store’s shelves.

The new market is located at the corner of Chelten and Morris. The property was an Acme market until the 1970s. It was last occupied by the JEVS Human Services, and has sat vacant for many years. The new store expects to bring more than 40 jobs to the neighborhood.

While supply chain considerations impact construction timelines, the opening date is yet to be determined. Early 2024 seems likely. (Fingers crossed!) Meanwhile, the adjoining Weavers Way Outreach Office at 326B W Chelten Avenue is buzzing with activity, hosting events and workshops and offering space for community engagement.

Left to right: Councilmember Cindy Bass (8th Council District), Rep. Darisha Parker (198th Legislative District), Philadelphia Department of Commerce Director Anne Nadol, Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3rd)
  • April 18, 2024

Germantown Homeowners Get Help Resolving Tangled Titles

Germantown United CDC (GU) is hosting a series of workshops to provide information and assistance for local residents struggling with tangled property titles.

Resolving a tangled title can be a complex and costly process, often requiring legal assistance. To help residents navigate this challenge, GU will be hosting a series of in-person and online workshops starting in March 2024. These workshops will equip attendees with the knowledge and resources needed to address tangled titles. Registration is required. Interested participants can sign up here.

We encourage all Germantown residents impacted by tangled titles to participate in these valuable workshops. The sessions are also open to members of Germantown’s civic associations, Registered Community Organizations, Block Captains, and other neighborhood stakeholders. By coming together, we can work to resolve the widespread problem of tangled titles and ensure Germantown homes remain in the hands of the families and communities that have built this neighborhood.

What is a Tangled Title?

A tangled title occurs when someone lives in a house but cannot prove ownership because their name is not on the deed. This is a common situation when a home is passed down through generations, with children or grandchildren continuing to reside in a property still registered in the name of a deceased parent or grandparent. While a tangled title may not impact day-to-day living, it can create significant challenges, making it difficult or even impossible to resolve issues like foreclosure, utility shutoffs, or emergency home repairs. Addressing tangled titles is an important step in protecting homes for future generations within the community.

The Importance of Addressing Tangled Titles

Tangled titles can have severe consequences for families and neighborhoods. Without clear ownership, residents are unable to tap into their home’s value, sell the property, or qualify for home equity loans and other important resources. In most cases, they can’t get homeowner’s insurance or qualify for city programs aimed at helping low-income households. At the same time, they’re still obligated to pay their real estate taxes, maintain their properties, and fulfill the other responsibilities of homeownership. This instability can also lead to blight and displacement, reducing the availability of affordable housing.

Fortunately, the City of Philadelphia is investing nearly $8 million to help resolve tangled titles. Germantown residents who need legal counsel, fee waivers, or public assistance can connect with Germantown United CDC to get the help they need.

Workshop Series

The Germantown United CDC workshops will cover everything from understanding tangled titles to identifying legal and financial resources to help clear a home’s title. Participants will also learn about addressing liens, delinquent property taxes, and deed transfers.

Individuals with unclear property ownership will receive free legal assistance to determine their eligibility and create a plan of action. GU is partnering with several legal aid organizations working with the City to process applications and funding requests for eligible residents. These partners may include:

  • Community Legal Services
  • Philly VIP
  • SeniorLAW Center
  • Philadelphia Legal Assistance
  • Affordable Housing Centers of Pennsylvania

By providing comprehensive support and connecting residents to critical resources, these workshops aim to empower Germantown homeowners to resolve their tangled titles successfully.

Schedule

Wednesdays

  • March 20, 2024 (In-Person)
  • April 3, 2024 (Online)
  • April 17, 2024 (In-Person)
  • May 1, 2024 (Online)
  • May 15, 2024 (In-Person)
  • May 29, 2024 (Online)

Registration is required. Sign up here >

Online workshops are offered through Zoom. The meeting access information will be sent separately via email following registration.

In-person workshops will take place at the Braid Mill Conference Room, located at 441 High St, Philadelphia, PA 19144. The main entrance is on High Street, between Morton Street and Magnolia Street.

Braid Mill is a new collaborative home for creatives, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and a center of community activity. The venue is accessible. The nearest bus route is the SEPTA XH. Secure bike and vehicle parking is available on-site. Instructions for entering the building will be provided. (Please note that the workshop location has been changed to accommodate more attendees. The event will no longer take place at GU’s office.)

Tangled Titles Disproportionately Impact Germantown

An analysis of census data shows that Germantown has some of the highest rates of tangled titles in the city. The neighborhoods with the most tangled titles tend to have lower household incomes and higher poverty levels.

Several factors contribute to the prevalence of tangled titles in these areas, including limited access to legal services and low property values. In some cases, outstanding liens can also make it difficult for residents to financially benefit from clearing the title.

Source: Pew analysis of data from the Philadelphia Office of Property Assessment and the Philadelphia Department of Revenue. © 2021 The Pew Charitable Trusts

Furthermore, there is a clear correlation between the incidence of tangled titles and the racial/ethnic makeup of a neighborhood. According to a groundbreaking 2021 report from the Pew Charitable Trusts, the census tracts with the highest rates of tangled titles are those with majority Black populations, like Germantown.

The map pictured above highlights the disproportionate impact of tangled titles on marginalized communities. Germantown is located in the Northwest section. Addressing this critical issue is essential for preserving homeownership and generational wealth in the neighborhood.

  • August 16, 2023

At Maplewood Mall block party, opinions vary about upcoming $2.2 million redesign

At Maplewood Mall block party, opinions vary about upcoming $2.2 million redesign (via NewsWorks)

June 25, 2013 By Alaina Mabaso for NewsWorks, @AlainaMabaso “Everybody has a different take. People who have been here longer are jaded. I can understand why people do stop believing.” –Rocio Cabello, co-founder, iMPeRFeCT Gallery”What I’d like to…

(more…)

  • August 16, 2023

YWCA Update: Councilwoman Bass uses NTI Funds to Support the YWCA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Councilwoman Bass uses NTI Funds to Support the YWCA

As the Councilwoman for the 8th district it is my job to advocate for every neighborhood, keeping in mind the unique perspectives of residents while recognizing community treasures.

When I took office in 2012, the question of what to do about the YWCA loomed large, as this building is an integral part of the neighborhood’s history. And while we are still working towards a final answer, I am beyond pleased that we have endeavored to explore additional options. I am most impressed with the creativity of the ideas that have been presented thus far, and nothing less should be expected in and for Germantown.

While we await the Request for Proposals (“RFP”) to be issued by the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Authority (“PRA”) this Spring, I will continue to speak with local developers and discuss their bold and unique visions for Germantown. Some of the concepts suggested thus far include full market-rate condominiums and/or rental units, office space, retail options and recreation uses. These suggestions have been presented both individually and in various combinations, and I am excited about the possibilities ahead. We are seeking developers that have the capacity to move quickly, who have a plan to involve the community in the process, and who take into account the importance of environmental sustainability. The RFP will be an open and transparent process, with an emphasis on preservation.

But beyond what goes into the YWCA, we must address the building’s condition and the recent concerns brought forward at a community meeting around this topic back in January. As rumors began flying about the building’s condition, (i.e., instability), it was critical that we operated on the facts. Working with the Department of Licenses and Inspection, and private consultants including former L & I Commissioner Bennett Levin, we got those facts which I am pleased to report.

I am happy to announce the YWCA is not imminently dangerous, and I have committed $2.2 million of my Neighborhood Transformation Initiative (“NTI”) funds to rehab the property and make the building safe and stable. With additional funds from the PRA, totaling approximately $4 million, we are able to provide the resources to protect and weatherize the property to prevent the building from any further structural deterioration. We will also be able to provide the much needed ‘curb appeal’ to make the property more marketable, and aid in stabilizing the commercial corridor.

We have to be thoughtful and deliberate about development in Germantown-just as we have in Mt. Airy and Chestnut Hill. Nothing less will be acceptable. With the NTI funds I am committing to this project, it will help make the site more attractive to developers while protecting a vital part of our City’s history. The building is currently in poor condition, but with our subsidy from NTI and the PRA, it will be saved and developed.

  • August 16, 2023

Germantown United CDC featured in The Philadelphia Inquirer today

Parks can be a powerful tool to rescue struggling commercial areas. Pulitzer prize-winning writer Inga Saffron, architecture critic for The Philadelphia Inquirer, recently visited Germantown to tour the newly renovated Vernon Park, which fronts Germantown’s central business district. Read her take on the park’s comeback, neighborhood revitalization, and rising development in Germantown.

The article features Ruth Seeley, the president of the Friends of Vernon Park – the organization that courageously led the charge for the park renovations – alongside Germantown United CDC’s new Commercial Corridor Manager Emaleigh Doley, who discussed the challenges impacting efforts to improve the nearby shopping district.

This is an exciting time for Germantown. If you are energized about the neighborhood’s potential, consider joining one of the many civic groups – like Friends of Vernon Park, your local Registered Community Organization (RCO), or GU’s own volunteer committee – and get involved in moving Germantown forward!

read the full story in The Philadelphia Inquirer

Philadelphia-Inquirer-Inga-Saffron-2015.11.06

read the full story

  • August 16, 2023

RES to complete Chelten Avenue Commercial Corridor Market Study and Revitalization Strategy

res-logo_9-24Germantown United Community Development Corporation (GUCDC) has retained Real Estate Strategies, Inc. (RES) to conduct a market study and develop a revitalization strategy for the Chelten Avenue commercial corridor in Germantown. GUCDC is actively working to bolster and reinforce the vibrancy of Chelten Avenue to meet the needs of the surrounding community, attract visitors from outside the immediate neighborhood, and provide employment opportunities for neighborhood residents. Building on these efforts, the purpose and objectives of this study are to explore opportunities to strengthen and diversify the mix of commercial uses in the corridor, the potential to reuse vacant or underutilized properties, business and job attraction strategies, and available sources of funding to support recommended revitalization strategies.

GUCDC_Corridor_0057_Monique_Brand copy

RES provides advisory services in real estate and economic development and has extensive experience in preparing market analyses and developing revitalization strategies for commercial corridors and neighborhoods in Philadelphia and throughout the greater mid-Atlantic region. Additionally, RES principals have over 25 years of experience working on development plans and initiatives in the Germantown neighborhood. Careful market research underpins all RES engagements, with the understanding that the best business attraction and economic development strategies begin with a realistic understanding of market dynamics.

The mission of Germantown United Community Development Corporation (GUCDC) is to promote and facilitate the revitalization of the business corridors in the Germantown neighborhood of Northwest Philadelphia through a sustainable, creative, and community-driven approach to economic development. Learn more at www.germantownunitedcdc.org.

  • August 16, 2023

Speak Up, Speak Out for Germantown at District Plan Meeting January 8th

Like each of the Philadelphia2035 District Plans, The Upper Northwest Plan is informed by a series of public meetings to ensure that the plan’s goals are compatible with community needs. Meetings will be held on weekday evenings in the District at transit-accessible locations. Explore the Upper Northwest District website.

The first public meeting will be:

Monday January 8, 2018, 6:30pm
7301 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19119
Brossman Center, Lutheran Theological Seminary of Philadelphia

In the event of snow: If the School District of Philadelphia is closed or has early dismissal on January 8th, the meeting will be cancelled. The Philadelphia City Planning Commission will send an email when the meeting is rescheduled (Germantown United CDC will forward this to our subscribers).

How to get there:

  • Bus Route 23
  • Regional Rail Chestnut Hill West: Allen Lane Station
  • Regional Rail Chestnut Hill East: Sedgwick Station
  • Parking lot and accessible entrance available

How do you want to see Germantown grow and prosper? Be there to share your vision.

The plan will address topics like:

  • Housing
  • Jobs and businesses
  • Zoning (regulates what can be built where and what a property can be used for)
  • Transportation
  • Rec centers, parks, other city-owned properties
  • Protecting historic buildings and sites
  • And more!

At this first meeting, representatives from City Planning will present a summary of the information gathered so far about:

  • What each property is being used for (commercial, residential, single-family/multi-family, etc.)
  • The current zoning for every property
  • Information on District’s population and economy, including residents’ race, age, level of education, how many work within the district vs. outside, and more.
  • Then we’ll break into small groups to hear from attendees about strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and barriers.

Download a flyer to share with your neighbors >>

Can’t make it to the public meeting? Visit the Upper Northwest District page to participate online.

About the district

The Upper Northwest district, oriented around the Germantown Avenue commercial corridor, is known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and excellent public transportation. The district is situated to the east of Wissahickon Park. Key issues are revitalizing greater Germantown, supporting historic preservation efforts throughout the district, planning for transit-oriented development along the Chestnut Hill East and Chestnut Hill West rail lines and at Wayne Junction Station, improving the pedestrian-oriented Germantown and Chelten commercial corridors, and retrofitting an historically and architecturally significant housing stock to meet the needs of contemporary households.

  • August 16, 2023

Response to Lower Germantown Blight and Housing Threat Before the PRA

The mission of Germantown United Community Development Corporation (GUCDC) is to promote and facilitate the revitalization of Germantown and its business corridors through a sustainable, creative, and community-driven approach to economic development.

In February of 2018, Germantown United CDC became aware that the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority (PRA) was considering a proposal to refinance $3.3 million in loans­––with forgiveness of all back taxes, all utility liens, and all late penalties and interest accumulated over a 25-year period––on 50+ properties concentrated in lower Germantown (an estimated 140+ units of housing).

News of the proposal before the PRA was met with overwhelming outrage. Thanks to substantial pressure, community organizing and advocacy, the PRA rejected the proposal and is moving forward with foreclosure, calling it “the responsible course of action that is best for the Germantown neighborhood and for the ongoing preservation and maintenance of this important affordable housing.” If successful, the PRA will take control of these properties. At this time however, exactly what will happen to these properties remains influx and unknown. But wait, there’s more! »»»

  • August 16, 2023

Response to Proposed Redevelopment of the Former Germantown High School and Fulton Elementary School Buildings

In my capacity as Board President of Germantown United Community Development Corporation, I have prepared this overview about the proposed redevelopment of the former Germantown High School and Robert Fulton Elementary School properties. For those who may not be aware of the history, this will help bring you up to speed.

In January 2019, a real estate listing surfaced promoting development of Germantown High School by a firm called MSC Realty. The listing depicted a suburban-style shopping center surrounded by parking lots on what is now the lawn of the high school property, fronting Germantown Avenue.

The upcoming meeting that Councilwoman Cindy Bass is coordinating about this development will be an important opportunity for the community to share our thoughts about the project with the developer (meeting date to be announced). It is necessary that we, as a community, attend this meeting as prepared as possible, and with some shared vision for the space. If individuals would find a pre-meeting helpful, I’d be happy to coordinate that.

SCHOOL CLOSURES

2013

  • Germantown High School (GHS) opened its doors in the fall of 1914, built out of the community’s desire to have their own high school. Previously students had to travel across the city to go to high school, as they do today. The community itself pledged to raise $500,000 of the needed funds when the Philadelphia School District refused to do so.
  • GHS and Fulton Elementary School were selected for closure by Philadelphia’s School Reform Commission (SRC) in the Spring of 2013 due to declining enrollment and lack of agency of the community.
  • While the Germantown High School Alumni Association and others put up a valiant effort to fight the closure they were ignored, and the school officially shut its doors in June of 2013.
Vera Primus, head of the alumni association. Photo via Germantown Beat.
  • An interesting footnote: one of the reasons given for the closure was that our students would receive a higher quality education elsewhere. I’ve been tracking test scores at the two feeder schools our students were sent to (Martin Luther King and Roxborough) and they remain consistently poor.

Suggested reading:
School Reform Commission votes to close 23 Philadelphia schools, sparking anger and despair for students, parents, teachers
Teachers, students and neighbors mourn the loss of Germantown’s Fulton Elementary School
On the scene for the last day of Germantown High School’s life (1914-2013)

THE BUILDING SALES 

2013-2017

  • In 2013, the school district closed 23 total schools and partnered with Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC) to coordinate the sale of the properties. Because some properties were more attractive to private developers than others, PIDC bundled school buildings to sell off as package deals. In the offering, PIDC’s suggested sales price of GHS and Fulton was $4.55 million.
  • In September of 2014 GHS and Fulton were approved to be sold to the Maryland-based Concordia Group. Other schools in the portfolio included Charles Carroll High School in Port Richmond and Walter G. Smith and Abigail Vare Elementaries in South Philadelphia.
  • After closing their doors in 2013, the future of both Germantown school buildings remained in limbo. The sale was stalled because of a lawsuit filed in Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court by a grassroots community group in Point Breeze who opposed the closure of Smith. Because the school buildings were packaged in bundles, redevelopment of all the properties included in the sale came to a halt, while communities simultaneously grappled with the loss of their schools and effects of large vacant buildings (abandoned structures affect crime, property values and public health).
  • In March of 2017 a judge ruled that the sale should go through.
  • Though the suggested sales price of GHS and Fulton was $4.55 million, court documents show that Concordia bought Germantown High School for just $100,000 and Fulton for $500,000: “As an accommodation to [Concordia], and for purposes of consideration recited in each of the deeds (and for transfer tax purposes), the [District] acknowledges that [Concordia], for its purposes has allocated the Purchase Price amongst [the Properties] as follows: Property Allocated Purchase Price [Carroll] $700,000.00 [Fulton] $500,000.00 [Germantown] $100,000.00 [Smith] $3,100,000.00 [Vare] $2,400,000.00.”

More info:
SRC approves Germantown High School sale to Md. developers
Point Breeze activists feel blindsided by loss of prize charter
School District appeals decision blocking sale of five buildings to developer
Pa. court orders judge to OK controversial $6.8M sale of 5 closed Philly schools

CONCORDIA BACKS OUT

2017

  • Though Concordia first floated the idea of turning some of the buildings into apartments, it seems that the lengthy lawsuit and protests were enough to convince Concordia to cancel plans. It is believed the company flipped the two Germantown properties to a local developer named Jack Azran. I personally know of two individuals who have met with Azran regarding the properties, though clarity is needed as to who the owner is (in part due to dated online property records). Note here that no property taxes have been paid on either property since they were sold.
  • There is little information about Azran on the web although this article about a property in Old City is a helpful read (and red flag, perhaps). In 2017, Azran and his partner Eli Alon were Grand Jury Award Winners at the 2017 Preservation Achievement Award Winners for the redevelopment of of 135-137 N. 3rd Street (positive outcome).
  • And the other schools? Concordia sold Smith in Point Breeze and Vare in Pennsport to controversial developer Ori Feibush. High Top Real Estate & Development is redeveloping Carroll in Port Richmond

More info:
School sites sell after legal tussle, with Feibush to develop Smith Elementary building

PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT

2018 – TODAY

  • In January 2019, a real estate listing surfaced promoting development of the lawn of the high school property, fronting Germantown Avenue, by a firm called MSC Realty. The listing depicted a suburban-style shopping center surrounded by parking lots.
  • The Germantown community got wind about the proposed plans after the listing was shared on neighborhood Facebook groups, sparking much discussion.
  • In an email exchange with MSC, they indicated they are the brokers for the owner and are not involved in the design or build. The listing appears to have been removed from the MSC Realty website, as of this posting. The images below are from a brochure from MSC (download PDF) which show what the full listing promoted.
Download PDF of brochure published by MSC Realty
  • The above proposal presented by MSC Realty is very different from the vision promoted by the City’s Philadelphia 2035 plan seen below, which was created with community input.
Download PDF of this section from the Upper Northwest District Plan
  • The above vision included in the Upper Northwest District Plan, adopted in October 2018, incorporates elements identified by stakeholders as desired assets in the neighborhood – retaining the historic auditorium and gymnasium for public use, with a mix of residential, educational, and live/work space filling the balance of the complex, with an open front promenade.
  • If you are not familiar, Philadelphia 2035 is the comprehensive plan for managing growth and development in the City of Philadelphia. The staff of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission creates the plans through a well-informed and open process that includes outreach to citizens, business associations, institutions and other city agencies. The Commission itself then adopts the Plan. Once adopted, government agencies, elected officials, and community partners put the plan into action. View the full Upper Northwest District Plan here, which covers Germantown, Mt. Airy, and Chestnut Hill.
  • In late January of 2019, I received a call from the legal representatives of the owner who assured me the owner was interested in engaging with the community after the site design was finished. I urged him to meet with the community first as the community has put a lot of thought into development ideas for the property. He informed me that Jack Azran is not forward facing on this project (why he never returned any of the emails I sent him over the years) but that High Top Real Estate & Development is taking the lead. High Top are also the developers who control the property at 156 W School House Lane that is seeking a variance for three apartment buildings, and the developers of Carroll in Port Richmond, which was part of the bundled sale.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SINCE CLOSURE

  • Immediately following the 2013 closure of the school a meeting was convened at Janes Memorial United Methodist Church to discuss ideas for re-use. Many ideas were discussed including senior and/or affordable housing, artist space, co-working and educational space.
  • The Alumni Association along with a group of individuals and representatives from Germantown-wide organizations began meeting around the idea of re-installing a school. This group also included architects. Kim Douglas, a Landscape Architecture Professor at Philadelphia University had adopted the school property to teach a field course creating adaptive re-uses for the school.
  • In November 2014 the coalition submitted an application to open a charter high school in the building focused on the building trades, historic preservation, and the hospitality industry. View the group’s presentation to the SRC.
  • The application was rejected for political reasons but there is still interest in reestablishing a neighborhood high school.
Supporters of Germantown Community Charter School attend a meeting of the School Reform Commission. Photo from Facebook.

More info:
Germantown Community Charter School presents to SRC
What’s next for germantown high school?
The Death of Philadelphia’s Public Schools

NEXT STEPS

In accordance with our mission, vision, and values, Germantown United CDC will remain vigilant in following the development of these and other large vacant properties in Germantown. Councilwoman Bass is finalizing a March date for the community meeting with the developer, stay tuned for date. Until then, if there is interest in a pre-meeting to share ideas, please let us know.

Yours for Germantown,

Julie Stapleton Carroll
Board President
Germantown United CDC
[email protected]

  • August 16, 2023

Development News: Germantown YWCA Community Meeting May 8

Councilwoman Cindy Bass will be hosting a community meeting with KBK Enterprises, the developer working on the Germantown YWCA (5820 Germantown Ave) project, which was first announced in 2016. This meeting will include a status update on the project and presentation of plans for the historic building, which sits adjacent to Vernon Park.

Meeting Date: Wednesday, May 8, 6pm – 8pm
Location: 6153 Germantown Ave at New Bethel African Methodist Church

Past news about this project:

  • August 16, 2023

Development News: Community Meeting with Developer of Germantown High & Fulton School Campuses May 6

Join the Germantown and Fulton Campus Coalition for an update on the future of the former Germantown High School and Fulton Elementary School buildings. The property owner is CONFIRMED to be in attendance and will present about the redevelopment project. Attend the meeting to get accurate information, learn how you can participate, and have a say in what happens here. We, the Coalition, recognize this is VERY short notice but were not given much choice. Please spread the word.

Meeting Date: Monday, May 6, 6pm – 8pm
Location: 47 E Haines Street, Janes Memorial United Methodist Church

Meeting Agenda:

  1. Hear from the owner of the school buildings.
  2. Get to know the development team.
  3. Ask questions. Get answers. Clear the air.
  4. Hear from representatives of the Germantown and Fulton Campus Coalition and learn about the next steps for the community.

Stay informed.
Sign up to receive email announcements and news about the redevelopment of the former Germantown High School and Fulton Elementary School campuses. Register: bit.ly/ghsfultonupdates

This meeting is hosted by Germantown and Fulton Campus Coalition – A coalition with representatives from 25+ faith-based, community, and civic organizations.

More on this important development

What about the Sheriff’s Sale?
Regarding the previously announced Sheriff’s Sale of some of the parcels that make up the school campuses, our understanding is that the sale has been postponed. We expect to learn more about this at the May 6 meeting. Listings are searchable on this web app.

The parcels that were listed for the May 15, 2019 Sheriff’s Sale are:
5915-41 GERMANTOWN AVE, 19144
61-71 E HAINES ST, 19144
60-86 E HAINES ST, 19144

This parcel listed for the June 19, 2019 sale is:
56-58 E HAINES ST, 19144

Recent news about this issue

Development timeline (last updated Feb. 26) 

A comprehensive timeline and update on the proposed redevelopment project is available at germantownunitedcdc.org. For those who may not be aware of the recent news, or history of the properties, this will help bring you up to speed. Access additional images, learn about the school closures, and community engagement thus far.

  • August 16, 2023

Important Community Survey

Please complete this brief survey about the Germantown YWCA Building at 5820 Germantown Avenue to weigh in on this important development issue impacting an important part of our commercial corridor. 

The survey is quick, easy, and anonymous if you wish. Confidential results will be shared publicly and sent to local elected representatives and the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority (PRA). The goal is to have 500 surveys completed by September. 

Join the Friends for the Restoration of the Germantown YWCA Building Facebook Group for regular updates on this project or email [email protected] to learn more.

YWCA Survey
The historic Germantown YWCA February 15, 2017. It was designed by Louis H. Rush and opened in 1915. At the time this article was published, Germantown was banking on the development of the YWCA to revitalize a stretch of vacant properties in the area. That has not materialized. Photo by Tom Gralish, The Philadelphia Inquirer.
  • July 21, 2023

Germantown United Community Development Corporation A Finalist For National Trust for Historic Preservation Grant

Presented by National Geographic & American Express

Vote for Germantown, the only finalist in the entire state of Pennsylvania, to receive up to $150,000 in grant funding from American Express.

DOWNLOAD PDF of PRESS RELEASE >>

PHILADELPHIA — September 25, 2017 … As a finalist in the Partners in Preservation: Main Streets campaign, Germantown United Community Development Corporation encourages the public to visit VoteYourMainStreet.org/Germantown to help Germantown United CDC secure funding to preserve two buildings on Germantown Avenue’s business corridor: Parker Hall (5801 Germantown Ave) and John Trower’s building (5706 Germantown Ave). Germantown is the only neighborhood in Philadelphia and the entire state of Pennsylvania participating in this competition.

With the awarded funds, this project will provide necessary facade and structural improvements to these two significant 20th-century African-American historic sites. The history of both buildings dates to the 1870s. Today, Parker Hall contains the office of Dr. Althea Hankins, MD, and the ACES Museum, which pays tribute to multi-ethnic contributions to the U.S. Military in WWII. The museum hosts veterans groups from throughout the country. John Trower’s building is home to the Crab House restaurant, a popular local business. Restoring these facades will benefit these businesses, bolster the historic appeal of Germantown, and increase community pride by highlighting the contributions of African-Americans to the history and culture of this country, in an underserved African-American urban community.

Germantown United CDC’s mission is to promote and facilitate the revitalization of Germantown and it’s business corridors through a sustainable, creative and community driven approach to economic development. GUCDC believes that Germantown’s history and built environment are economic assets upon which to rebuild Germantown’s economy and create equitable economic development. After decades of decline, there are signs of improvement and vibrancy in Germantown.

Partners in Preservation is a community-based partnership, created by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express, to raise awareness of the importance of preserving historic places and their role in sustaining local communities.

Partners in Preservation: Main Streets will award $2 million in grant funding from American Express to Main Street districts in need of preservation support across America. The public will determine which sites will receive funding by voting for their favorite main streets through October 31 at VoteYourMainStreet.org, the online voting portal hosted by National Geographic Travel.

Partners in Preservation: Main Streets Open House Weekend  

Germantown United CDC will host a public Open House Weekend event at their new storefront office, located at 5320 Germantown Avenue, on Saturday, October 7 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. to highlight the importance of Main Street preservation efforts in Philadelphia. The Open House will coincide with the Revolutionary Germantown Festival, a neighborhood-wide event honoring the legacy of the Battle of Germantown. Germantown United CDC is one of 25 historic Main Street districts across the country participating in the Partners in Preservation: Main Streets Open House Weekend.

Why Main Street Matters

According to 2016 data from Main Street America, investments in Main Street districts have a significant impact on local economies – encouraging real estate development as well as the creation of new businesses and jobs. In 2016, $4.65 billion reinvested in Main Street improvement programs resulted in 8,042 building rehabilitations, 5,616 business openings, and 27,462 new jobs.

Furthermore, according to a recent study from Morning Consult of 2,201 Americans commissioned by American Express, 79 percent of Americans say that preserving Main Street is important. Additionally, 79 percent of Americans say that the idea of Main Street is what makes America beautiful. Main Street is also seen as vital in connecting Americans to their local community – 82 percent of Americans say that Main Street is important to their ability to socialize with others in a community. A similar amount, 86 percent, say that Main Street is important to the well-being and the enjoyment of a community.

For more information and to vote daily for Germantown United CDC through October 31, visit VoteYourMainStreet.org and share the love via social media using #VoteYourMainStreet and #VoteGermantown.

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Media Contact:
Jack Cotter
[email protected]
215.867.8060

About Germantown United Community Development Corporation

The mission of Germantown United Community Development Corporation (GUCDC) is to promote and facilitate the revitalization of Northwest Philadelphia’s Germantown neighborhood and its business corridors through a sustainable, creative, and community-driven approach to economic development. Learn more at http://germantownunitedcdc.org.

About Partners in Preservation

Partners in Preservation is a program in which American Express, in partnership with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, awards preservation grants to historic places across the country.

Through this partnership, American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation seek to increase the public’s awareness of the importance of historic preservation in the United States and to preserve America’s historic and cultural places. The program also hopes to inspire long-term support from local citizens for the historic places at the heart of their communities.

About American Express

American Express is a global services company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at americanexpress.com, and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, instagram.com/americanexpress, linkedin.com/company/american-express, twitter.com/americanexpress, and youtube.com/americanexpress.

Key links to products, services and corporate responsibility information: charge and credit cards, business credit cards, Plenti rewards program, travel services, gift cards, prepaid cards, merchant services, Accertify, corporate card, business travel, and corporate responsibility.

About the National Trust for Historic Preservation

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately funded nonprofit organization, works to save America’s historic places: www.savingplaces.org.

About Main Street America

Main Street America has been helping revitalize older and historic commercial districts for more than 35 years. Today it is a network of more than 1,600 neighborhoods and communities, rural and urban, who share both a commitment to place and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. Main Street America is a program of the nonprofit National Main Street Center, Inc., a subsidiary of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

About National Geographic Partners LLC

National Geographic Partners LLC, a joint venture between National Geographic Society and 21st Century Fox, combines National Geographic television channels with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic Studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, catalog, licensing and e-commerce businesses. A portion of the proceeds from National Geographic Partners LLC will be used to fund science, exploration, conservation and education through significant ongoing contributions to the work of the National Geographic Society. For more information, visit http://www.nationalgeographic.com/ and find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest.

  • September 18, 2017

Big Announcement: GUCDC is Moving!

We at Germantown United CDC are thrilled to announce that we are moving into our first storefront office located at 5320 Germantown Ave, at the corner of W Penn Street. This space that has been vacant for nearly a year. We are looking forward to activating this corner and sharing this block of the Avenue with so many great Germantown businesses and attractions, including: Perfectly Flawless Boutique, Bargain Thrift, Grumblethorpe, Sandalwood Yoga, Gtown Tees, Count On Me 123 Learning Center, Pizzeria Nonna, Trinity Lutheran Church, Tastie’s, Angie’s Dominican Power Salon, Philadelphia Spine Associates, Around the Clock Home Healthcare, Hosley Temple CME, The Police Athletic League, Germantown Boys & Girls Club, Germantown Friends School, and more! Right now we’re busy moving boxes, putting together furniture, and getting settled. We’ll be hosting an Open House for the community in the fall. Date TBD. Stay tuned!