🚆 Former SEPTA stations to be revitalized

💰 No Budget in Sight 3 Months Later

While we wait for lawmakers to finalize a state budget, entities across the commonwealth, including school districts, are borrowing millions to cover expenses. As a temporary solution, state treasurer (and GOP gubernatorial candidate) Stacy Garrity announced a program offering loans to local counties and social service agencies at a lower interest rate than the open market. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

🧑‍⚖️ Which Philly Judges Passed the Vibe Check?

The general election is six weeks away, and unless you’re really in the know you may be uncertain who to vote for. To help you decide, the Philadelphia Bar Association released its recommendations for judges — but not everyone is happy. The PBA chose not to recommend for retention five out of 18 municipal judges. [KYW]

• Related: How does the PBA decide who to recommend and why? Matt Olesh, chair of its Campaign for Qualified Judges, broke down the process back in May. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

🗳️ Could We See a City Council Shakeup?

Speaking of elections, although City Council members won’t be up for election until 2027, the race has already begun. Lawyer Jalon Alexander is throwing his hat in the ring to compete against Fifth District Councilmember Jeffrey Young. [🔒 The Inquirer]

🚉 Shuttered SEPTA Stations To Find New Life

Plans to revitalize five historic SEPTA stations in Northwest Philadelphia are moving forward after the Federal Transit Authority gave its stamp of approval. SEPTA has leased the stations to developer Ken Weinstein for one dollar for 99 years. [🔒 Chestnut Hill Local]

🐴 Horsing Around in Fairmount Park

Work to Ride, a youth developmental program teaching Philly teens how to ride and care for horses, finally opened a new equestrian center. The larger center will allow for expanded programming in the winter months. [WHYY]

• Related: Philly is no stranger to cowboy culture. In fact, the classic western hat we see today has Philly roots. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

This week on City Cast Philly, we discussed the plans to remove mentions of slavery at national sites like the President’s House exhibit at Independence National Historical Park, and what that means for the preservation of history.

To help you stay informed on both our local and national history, take this week’s quiz.