Philadelphia declares Washington Square West a historic district

The Philadelphia Historical Commission voted unanimously on a Friday to designate Washington Square West as a historic district, a decision that has been met with mixed reactions from the community. The area, which spans approximately 26 city blocks and includes over 1,400 properties, is rich in history, featuring significant sites such as Philadelphia's first Black Catholic church and the oldest Jewish cemetery in the city. The neighborhood's historical roots trace back to the mid-1700s, with many original cobblestone streets still intact. Tami Sortman, a member of the Washington Square West Civic Association, expressed her excitement over the designation, highlighting the neighborhood's historical significance and the years of effort put into achieving this status. The historic designation will protect properties from demolition and require property owners to seek approval for exterior changes, which aims to preserve the area's character and history. However, the decision has sparked controversy among some residents. Colin Murphy, a local homeowner, voiced concerns that the designation imposes restrictions that may be financially burdensome for many residents. He argued that the requirements could disadvantage those who cannot afford to maintain a historic property, raising questions about the implications for community members. In response to the concerns, Sortman announced plans for an educational meeting to inform residents about the impact of the historic designation on the community. This meeting is expected to take place in the coming months, aiming to address the community's apprehensions and clarify the benefits of the new status.