Findings from Community Conversations in Philadelphia - Housing, Transportation, Parks and Green Spaces

In April 2019, AARP Pennsylvania conducted community conversations in five Philadelphia neighborhoods in order to hear residents’ thoughts and concerns related to three major issues – housing, transportation, and parks/green and public spaces. Over 300+ residents, many of whom were 55+, participated in conversations in Center City, North Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, South Philadelphia and West Philadelphia. In addition, a Telephone Town Hall was held to solicit input from over 250 AARP members who reside in Philadelphia.
AARP Pennsylvania has created a reportthat summarizes the major points that were raised by diverse groups of residents. Although there were some differences based on geographic area, many of the concerns were the same. This report also provides recommendations that could address the concerns that were raised during these community conversations. Key findings include:

Housing: Across all neighborhoods, the lack of affordable housing was identified as a major issue. Of particular concern is the rise in tax assessments, especially in areas that are experiencing gentrification. Additionally, many Philadelphians expressed concerns about the need for home modifications.

Transportation: Philadelphians across the city expressed varied concerns about transportation, including sanitation and safety when using public transportation, the deteriorated conditions of Philadelphia roads and sidewalks, traffic safety and fatalities, and the lack of adequate parking.

Parks/Green and Public Spaces: Residents in some neighborhoods discussed the lack of green spaces and shared their concerns about safety and poor maintenance. Additionally, many Philadelphians focused on the lack of safety and amenities.
Next StepsAARP Pennsylvania intends to share this report with the mayoral candidates and City Council members to provide greater insight into residents’ needs around housing, transportation, and parks and green spaces. Additionally, AARP Pennsylvania will share this information with community partners and stakeholders as we work together to identify challenges and opportunities, advocate for local policy changes, and engage residents and officials on making Philadelphia a more livable community for all ages.

Next Steps: AARP Pennsylvania intends to share this report with the candidates for Philadelphia Mayor and with City Council members to provide greater insight into residents’ needs around housing, transportation, and parks and green spaces. Additionally, AARP Pennsylvania is making this report public and for use by community partners and stakeholders as we work together to identify challenges and opportunities, advocate for local policy changes, and engage residents and officials on making Philadelphia a more livable community for all ages.

Report: Findings from Community Conversations - Philadelphia, April 2019

Special thanks to community organizations who worked with AARP Pennsylvania to host and/or promote the community conversations including the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, Fairmount CDC, Frankford Community Development Corporation, HACE, Northern Liberties Neighbors Association, Rail-to-Trail Conservancy, SEAMAAC, The Enterprise Center, The Greater Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, The North Broad Renaissance, The People's Emergency Center, and The Ralston Center.