#BreakingNews: Philly will get a land bank

We are pleased to report that an agreement has been reached in Philadelphia City Council on the outlines of a land bank bill. While detailed language on proposed amendments is still being finalized at this hour, we are optimistic that Philadelphians will get what they deserve this holiday season: A land bank that will transform our vacant spaces into community assets in a more accountable, transparent and equitable manner. We thank the Council President, Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez, and the Nutter Administration for their hard work and look forward to continuing our dialogue to make the land bank a reality. 

PennFuture was one of several groups to spearhead the creation of the Philly Land Bank Alliance -- a diverse group of stakeholders all working together to advocate for a land bank in Philadelphia. In March 2013, Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez introduced legislation to create a Philadelphia land bank. Members of the alliance represent a broad spectrum of stakeholders, from neighborhood advocates and community development corporations to market rate developers and advocates for small businesses, green space and food access. 

We'll keep you posted once amendments are finalized and a bill is passed. 


Andrew Sharp is PennFuture's director of outreach and works in our Philadelphia office.