The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has issued a Heat Health Emergency across the city, warning residents that a dangerous heat dome is expected to push real-feel temperatures into triple digits. The emergency takes effect Wednesday, July 1, at 11 a.m. and is currently scheduled to remain in place through Saturday, July 4, at 8 p.m.

Forecasters from the National Weather Service have issued an Extreme Heat Warning for southeastern Pennsylvania, noting that multiple days of intense humidity combined with highs near 100°F could drive heat index values as high as 105°F to 110°F.

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The University of Pennsylvania has acquired the former Hummus Grill property at 3931 Walnut St. for $4 million, according to a report by The Philadelphia Business Journal. The building includes five residential units and a ground-floor restaurant space. The purchase has brought the university one step closer to gaining full real estate control over that specific block of University City.

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A historic neighborhood anchor is hitting a major milestone this week. The Walnut Street West Library, located at the corner of 40th and Walnut streets, is turning 120 years old, and the community is invited to celebrate its rich history and ongoing service to West Philadelphia this Friday, June 26th.

The current building officially opened its doors to the public on June 26, 1906. It holds a distinct place in local history as the very first branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia funded by an Andrew Carnegie grant, constructed on land originally donated by Clarence Clark—the prominent West Philadelphia banker and Clark Park namesake. Prior to moving into its permanent Carnegie home, the West Philadelphia Branch of Philadelphia Public Library first began serving the community in 1895 out of three rented rooms down the block at 40th and Ludlow streets (see photo below). It was renamed the Walnut Street West Branch in the 1970’s.

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A pedestrian safety island at 57th and Chestnut.

Chestnut Street is getting a safety upgrade. According to the Philadelphia Streets Department, new pedestrian “refuge islands” are scheduled for installation along the corridor.

Seven intersections slated for the new pedestrian refuge islands are:

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An artist’s rendering of redeveloped Bartram Village.

Mayor Cherelle Parker has issued an emergency declaration allowing the Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) to bypass some federal regulations and immediately demolish 45 vacant apartment buildings at the Bartram Village site, according to a report by the Philadelphia Business Journal.

Officials stated the emergency order was prompted by public safety hazards, noting that the vacant structures have suffered property damage from trespassers and squatters.

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Volunteers at work at 47th and Sansom

Here’s an update on the Walnut Hill Playground improvement project, which broke ground last spring at 47th and Sansom.

Over the weekend, volunteers from Target, University City District, Do Moore Good, Green City Works, the Walnut Hill Community Association, and other community partners joined forces to help beautify the playground and nearby Sansom Street Garden.

The volunteers helped install new playground amenities, mulch and weed garden beds, and paint the Sansom Street Garden fence across from the playground. The effort brought together local organizations and volunteers to support a community space used by Walnut Hill families and residents.

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