👮 SEPTA police to target smaller violations

Predicting Philly’s Upcoming Budget

It’s a big week at City Hall. Mayor Parker is expected to present her proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year on Thursday. Here’s what we think her priorities will be. Plus, we take a look at the new legislation City Council is pushing. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

My Gas Bill Costs How Much?

You may have noticed your grocery, utility, and rent costs fluctuating over the past few years (I’m looking at you, PGW). But how much has the affordability of necessities changed in Philly? Take this quiz and guess how today’s prices compare to 10 years ago. [🔒 The Inquirer]

• Related: If you’re looking for ways to have fun but still save enough to pay your bills, here are some low-cost (and alcohol-free) activities to do around the city. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

SEPTA Police To Focus on Smaller Infractions on Public Transit

Following a drop in serious crimes — a 6% decrease in 2025 compared to 2024 — SEPTA plans to further improve the commuter experience by addressing smaller infractions. The new initiative includes a virtual patrol to monitor the system’s 30,000 cameras and assign officers to ride trains. [SEPTA, 6ABC]

Protecting Our Local Waterways

The city is committing $9 million to mitigating flooding along the Cobbs Creek. Residents previously raised concerns that the restoration of the Cobbs Creek Golf Course and the removal of trees along the watershed increased flood risks for nearby neighborhoods. Meanwhile, research groups are working to remove “forever chemicals” from Philly’s rivers by using air bubbles and sampling the water for pollutants, among other methods. [WHYY, Green Philly]

The School Board Wants Your Feedback

Ninety guests are expected to speak at a hearing on Thursday addressing the school district’s $2.8 billion facilities plan. Under the revised plan, 18 schools are expected to close, with changes starting in 2027. [Philadelphia Tribune, 🎧 City Cast Philly]

• If you can’t attend the meeting but have thoughts you’d like to share, leave a comment on the plan here.

We’re back with another “Where Is It?” challenge, our game where you guess the location of street art and landmarks around the city.

Do you recognize where this mural is located? Here’s a hint: Follow the sound of music and children playing, and you’ll find this rabbit hopping nearby.

While you’re out and about, make sure to:

• Explore Philly’s uniquely named neighborhoods.
• Talk to your neighbors.
• Spot a Philly athlete (real and fictional).
• Participate in these remaining March events.
• Learn how to fix our downtown.
• Pick up a copy of the book all of Philly is reading (and discover other unique items you can borrow from the library).
• Go on a women’s history tour.
• Eat the city’s best Caesar salads.