Community Engagement

At a recent Bisnow University City and Center City summit, discussions flowed to the topics of affordable housing and community continuity as real estate development encroaches on neighborhoods in the city. Responsible growth and development lends itself to establishing a dynamic, engaged relationship between developers and community members. To that end, PlanPhilly wrote in late 2018 about the push for Philadelphia communities and real estate organizations to work together. Some general suggestions include:

• Thinking beyond inviting existing and/or participating stakeholders--finding ways, such as a neighborhood venue, to host welcoming opportunities to interact.

• Asking what the community needs and/or wants, rather than presenting an established list of options.

• Engaging community members and organizations at the very beginning of any project.

• Providing meaningful opportunities for community participation.