akins station

Philadelphia News

news

Philadelphia is preparing for a major heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 95°F this weekend, prompting the city to open cooling centers and extend pool hours. SEPTA announced delays on the Market-Frankford Line due to emergency track repairs, causing significant commuter disruptions.

In breaking news, a massive fire at a Fishtown warehouse was contained after a 12-hour battle by firefighters. On a positive note, Philadelphia was ranked among the top 10 most walkable cities in the U.S. by a new national study.

Political

Mayor Cherelle Parker unveiled a $6.3 billion budget proposal focused on public safety, education, and infrastructure. The plan includes funding for 300 new police officers and expanded after-school programs. Governor Josh Shapiro signed a bill increasing Pennsylvania’s minimum wage to $15 by 2026, while lawmakers debated a controversial bill to reduce business taxes. The city also secured $75 million in federal grants for repairs to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

Economic

Philadelphia’s unemployment rate held steady at 4.1%, slightly above the national average. The healthcare and education sectors led job growth, while retail vacancies in Center City reached 18%. A new report showed home prices rose 6% year-over-year, worsening the city’s affordability crisis. Comcast announced a $50 million expansion of its Philadelphia headquarters, creating 1,000 new tech jobs.

Elections

The race for District Attorney heated up as incumbent Larry Krasner faced criticism over rising violent crime rates. Early voting began for the August special election to fill a vacant City Council seat, with Democrats hoping to maintain their majority. Meanwhile, school board candidates clashed over charter school funding and curriculum policies.

Entertainment

The Philadelphia Orchestra announced its 2024-25 season, featuring a tribute to Leonard Bernstein. The Barnes Foundation debuted a new exhibit on Impressionist masters, while the Kimmel Center’s summer Broadway series opened with The Lion King. In local music news, The Roots announced a free concert on the Parkway for August 10.

town

The Phillies remained in playoff contention behind Bryce Harper’s MVP-caliber season. The Eagles kicked off training camp with high expectations for their revamped offense. The Union advanced to the U.S. Open Cup semifinals, while the Wings (lacrosse) prepared for their playoff push.

Employment

Philadelphia added 5,000 jobs in June, led by healthcare, education, and hospitality hiring. Jefferson Health announced 800 new nursing positions, while Amazon pledged to hire 1,500 seasonal workers for its Delaware Valley facilities. However, restaurant staffing shortages persisted, with 20% of jobs unfilled.

Legal

A federal judge upheld Philadelphia’s ban on flavored tobacco products, rejecting a lawsuit from retailers. The city settled a wrongful conviction case for $9.8 million after a man spent 28 years in prison. A high-profile corruption trial began for a former city councilmember accused of bribery.

Business

Comcast shares rose 3% on strong streaming growth, while Aramark dipped amid food service contract losses. Urban Outfitters reported better-than-expected earnings, and DuPont gained 2% on industrial demand.