Observing the 1987 Philadelphia Skyline via Vintage Photographs

Since 1987, the Philadelphia skyline has expanded both horizontally and vertically, as the city has received a new tallest skyscraper along with multiple towers rising higher than 500 feet. However, over 30 years ago, the skyline was already suggesting what was coming in the future, as skyscrapers were finally rising above the 548-foot mark set by City Hall in Center City. In this feature, Philadelphia YIMBY will look back at the skyline by observing photographs from 1987.

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1420 North Marston Street. Looking northwest. Credit: Google Maps

Demolition Permits Issued for Vacant Rowhouse at 1420 North Marston Street in Brewerytown, North Philadelphia

Permits have been issued for the demolition of a two-story, 1,200-square-foot rowhouse situated at 1420 North Marston Street in Brewerytown, North Philadelphia. The vacant structure stands on the west side of the block between Master and Jefferson streets, and will be torn down as part of the City of Philadelphia Demolition Program. The work will include removal of trees on adjacent vacant lots at 1413, 1417, and 1418 North Marston Street, as well as placement of erosion control mats with seed on all lots. Francis Henriquez of FH Demolition is the listed contractor. Demolition costs are listed at $9,200.

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Pavilion as seen from South Street Bridge. Credit: Thomas Koloski.

Work Progresses On Pedestrian Bridge At The Penn Medicine Pavilion

Construction is making steady progress on a new pedestrian bridge at the Penn Medicine Pavilion, a new hospital tower that is reaching completion at 300 South 33rd Street in University City. The tower, designed by Foster + Partners, stands 343 feet and 17 stories tall, with 1.5 million square feet of space. The new bridge will connect the Pavilion to SEPTA’s Penn Medicine Regional Rail Station, formerly titled University City Station. The station is one of the busiest on the system, attracting riders to the major employment center consisting of the nearby medical facilities.

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Rendering of 316-20 South 11th Street.

Garage Demolished at 316-20 South 11th Street in Washington Square West, Center City

A parking garage has been demolished at 316-20 South 11th Street in Washington Square WestCenter City, the site of a future townhouse development. When completed, the structure will add nine new townhomes to the site, each standing four stories tall. The buildings will feature stately exteriors with what appears to be a very high standard of brickwork and a molding band running above the second floor and an elaborate cornice situated at the parapet. The tan brick façade will feature large, attractive windows with grid-shaped frames. Each home will have access to an off-street parking garage via a covered drive aisle.

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