New Parking Garage Planned for West Philadelphia too Support police Forensics Lab
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Philadelphia will see a significant infrastructure addition in University City with the planned construction of a 495-space parking garage at 17 N.41st Street. The project, spearheaded by University Place Associates, will also accommodate vehicles for the forthcoming police forensics laboratories housed in the adjacent 3.0 University Place building.
Project Details and Design
Dubbed 5.0 University Place, the garage’s design is the work of Philadelphia-based ISA Architects. The development of both 3.0 and 5.0 University Place is a collaborative effort between Silverstein properties and Cantor Fitzgerald. A significant portion of the parking will be available to the public for a fee, bolstering the area’s growing commercial and life science sectors between 39th and 42nd Streets on Market Street.
“With leasing at 3.0 University Place progressing,we’re excited to begin the 5.0 University place Parking Garage,” stated Anthony Maher, president of University Place associates. “This project isn’t just about parking; it integrates green space, a community dog park, landscaped pedestrian areas, and a planned mural wall to deliver a more connected and welcoming experience.”
The north side of the structure, facing Powelton Avenue, will feature many of these amenities. The mural will adorn the facade overlooking the dog park and community garden.
Zoning and political Support
The project received crucial zoning approval in June, championed by councilmember Jamie Gauthier, who actively advocated for the new forensic laboratory in University City. This support underscores the city’s commitment to modernizing its criminal justice infrastructure. who fought for the new forensic laboratory to be housed in University City
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The new crime lab will occupy 3.0 University Place at 4101 Market Street. The parking garage will reserve 29 spaces, totaling 10,400 square feet, specifically for city use.
Developers aim for a swift construction timeline, recognizing the city’s urgent need for the facility. Ron Patterson, a zoning lawyer with Klehr Harrison representing the developer, explained, “It’s on a swift schedule as the city needs it.” He further clarified that a dedicated, secured entrance will be provided for lab vehicles, separated from public access.
Community Impact and Concerns
The site at 17 N. 41st Street is currently a surface parking lot. University Place Associates has initiated engagement with the West Powelton Saunders Park RCO, though leadership was not immediately available for comment.
The project has drawn scrutiny from urbanist groups like 5th Square,who argue that the area’s robust public transportation network-including multiple bus and trolley lines and the Market-Frankford subway-elevated train-should prioritize pedestrian and transit-oriented development.
Pro Tip: Consider the impact of parking infrastructure on walkability and public transit usage when evaluating urban development projects.
Natasha Tabachnikoff, co-chair of 5th Square’s Housing Committee, voiced concerns: “This is one of the most transit-rich areas of the city, and we should be doing more to encourage walking and public transit, not creating dead zones of parking structures.” 5th Square has previously opposed similar parking garage proposals, citing a 2023 Planning Commission report indicating that only three-quarters of existing University city parking capacity is currently utilized.
“There is already vacant parking in University City,” Tabachnikoff added,questioning the necessity of additional parking infrastructure.
Project Timeline and Future Outlook
Despite these concerns, the zoning overlay approval streamlines the project’s regulatory path. The proposed structure will be reviewed by the city’s Civic Design Review committee on September 2. Developers emphasize the project’s alignment with the needs of the expanding life sciences ecosystem.
“We understand that some may see adding structured parking as unnecessary in a transit-rich area,but 5.0 University Place was carefully designed to meet the unique needs of Philadelphia’s rapidly growing life sciences ecosystem,” Maher explained. “Our campus is bringing hundreds of new high-skill jobs and an influx of researchers and companies to university City, many of whom require specialized, secure parking options – including fleet, service, and visitor needs.”
| project Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Garage Name | 5.0 University Place |
| Location | 17 N. 41st Street, Philadelphia |
| Total Parking Spaces | 495 |
| Spaces for City use | 29 |
| Design Firm | ISA Architects |
| Civic Design Review Date | September 2 |
Did You Know? The new forensics lab is a key component of Philadelphia’s broader efforts to address crime and improve public safety through advanced scientific analysis.
How will this new parking garage impact traffic flow and accessibility in University City? What other infrastructure improvements are needed to support the area’s continued growth?
The debate surrounding parking infrastructure in urban centers is a longstanding one, frequently enough pitting the needs of drivers against the goals of enduring transportation and walkable communities. Philadelphia’s experience reflects a national trend of balancing economic development with environmental and social considerations. The rise of the life sciences industry, with its specialized parking demands, presents a unique challenge for city planners. Moreover, the increasing adoption of remote work and option transportation options may reshape the future demand for parking in urban areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the primary purpose of the 5.0 University Place parking garage? The garage is designed to support the new police forensics lab and the broader development of the University Place campus.
- How many parking spaces will be available to the public? A substantial portion of the 495 spaces will be available for paid public use.
- What concerns have been raised about the project? Critics argue that the area is well-served by public transit and that additional parking could discourage sustainable transportation options.
- When is the Civic Design Review scheduled? The project will be reviewed by the Civic design Review committee on September 2.
- Who are the key developers involved in the project? University Place Associates, Silverstein Properties, and Cantor Fitzgerald are collaborating on the development.
- What amenities will be included in the garage design? The garage will incorporate green space, a community dog park, landscaped pedestrian areas, and a mural wall.
Disclaimer: This article provides data for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute professional advice.
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