By Sarah Corlett
Director of Economic Development
New Kensington Community Development Corporation

There are many approaches to neighborhood economic development. Sustainable approaches, that are truly successful in engaging the community and public and private investment, take advantage of the assets certain neighborhoods possess. For the Fishtown and Kensington communities, one of these strengths is the concentration of artists and the plethora of industrial spaces that exist.

It’s no secret that enclaves of artists were pushed from other parts of Philadelphia when apartments were turned into condos and affordable studio space was hard to come across. It’s also no secret that artists are notorious for moving into perceived unsafe, run down neighborhoods to take advantage of cheap spaces that can be adapted easily. In the end real estate values climb and communities are transformed into places desirable for higher income residents to live. However, the initial agents of change must move elsewhere to the next closest affordable neighborhood. This begs the question – How can artists and the creative community be part of a long term economic development strategy?

In 2004, New Kensington CDC engaged the community in a planning process for the revitalization of Frankford Avenue. What emerged was desire by the artists, small businesses and residents to have a viable commercial corridor that supported the metal workers, the painters, the graphic designers and dozens of others who created art in their homes, in their garages and even in enormous industrial buildings. Naturally these arts related businesses would be partnered with bookstores, cafes, restaurants and other commercial endeavors. Step one is to enhance the infrastructure of the street, but it was demanded that these improvements reflect the character of the neighborhoods and utilize the talent available. Local artists have already been used to create artistic bike racks along the arts corridor and nearly $3.5 million has been leveraged for the streetscape.

New businesses moved into the neighborhood. Real estate values are on the rise and despite the many challenges the community still faces with crime and abandoned buildings, Frankford Avenue and the surrounding streets look remarkably better. Signs of transformation can be fearful. Will our artists and long time residents be forced to leave these neighborhoods as well? How can folks of various socio-economic statuses co-exist in a clean, safe and vibrant area? After all, attractive, unique neighborhoods contribute to the appeal of this city.

Along the corridor many of the arts-related businesses purchased property before real estate values began to soar. Tax abatements from the city will help as well. This insures that as the neighborhood evolves, the pressure to keep up with rent (and property taxes for at least 10 years) does not become a burden. These entrepreneurs are have a chance to benefit from new developments, new residents and strong relationships formed over the years. New Kensington CDC converted a textile mill into 27 units of live/work space using low income housing tax credits, preserving affordable spaces for emerging artists. Education has also been an important component. Workshops that encourage artists to form a business plan, create a marketing strategy, file for taxes correctly and move into home ownership have been held. And perhaps most importantly, the businesses and artists support one another. An under ground buy local campaign is prevalent here. Whether the support comes in the form of dollars, or a helping hand or collaboration, this level of commitment from the old and new community is a key component for ANY successful neighborhood economic development strategy.

Tell us what you think about the redevelopment of Kensington.