May 18th

Session #5
Redeveloping Healthy Neighborhoods
May 18th 2006 6-8:00 pm

Like so many older urban centers at the end of the 20th century, Philadelphia has struggled with the loss of population, a dwindling taxbase, limited resources, and the need for a unifying civic energy. Building and land vacancy, which many have considered a liability, are in reality a tremendous asset in terms of redevelopment opportunities. This evening will be devoted to discussing the ways in which Philadelphia's unique and invaluable resources can be creatively and strategically incorporated into sustainable neighborhood redevelopment.

The Keynote Speaker will be Samuel Assefa, Deputy Chief of Staff: Economic and Physical Development - Office of the Mayor, City of Chicago.  Chicago has embraced a civic vision to become the greenest city in the country by providing improvements to air and water quality, and conservation of energy and natural resources. But social and economic development are equal and integral to the action plan for making the city a place where people want to live, visit, and start their businesses.

Panelist speakers for the evening include:

Eva Gladstein - Executive Director, Neighborhood Transformation Initiative

Sandy Wiggins - President, Delaware Valley Green Building Council

Scott Paige - Principal, Interface Studio LLC