Expressing the City Council’s priorities for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s 95 Revive Project from Center City to South Philadelphia

Summary

This resolution expresses City Council's opposition to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's (PennDOT) proposed widening of I-95 from Center City to South Philadelphia as part of the 95 Revive Project. Council argues that widening the highway from six to eight lanes will increase traffic, noise, and air pollution, while also eliminating recreational spaces like the Southeast Youth Athletic Association fields and the Rizzo Rink. The resolution calls for PennDOT and the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) to study the impacts of removing or burying I-95 instead of widening it. It also urges DVRPC to require transportation projects to demonstrate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle miles traveled (VMT) to be included in planning and improvement programs. Finally, Council requests that PennDOT's Engineering District 6 headquarters be moved to Philadelphia and emphasizes the need for robust community engagement in all future decisions regarding I-95.

Citizen Impact

This resolution reflects Council's opposition to widening I-95, which could lead to reduced traffic congestion and pollution in South Philadelphia neighborhoods. It also advocates for studying the removal or burial of the highway, potentially opening up land for development and improving access to the Delaware River waterfront.

Confidence

high