😮 Mayor Parker names new managing director

Why 311 Responses Vary Depending on Where You Live

311 is the city's go-to service for reporting everyday issues like missed trash pick-ups, abandoned cars, and potholes. But why do some neighborhoods wait longer than others to have their concerns addressed? On today's podcast, host Trenae Nuri chats with a Fairmount resident who analyzed 500,000 data points to uncover how location really matters when it comes to 311. [City Cast Philly]

City Managing Director Steps Down, Replaced By Clean-and-Green Czar

Managing Director Adam Thiel, the city's point person for overseeing emergency situations, has resigned after 2 1/2 years on the job. Thiel’s tenure was marked by extended absences (he’s a major in the Army Reserve and last year more than doubled his $310,000 salary with other outside work). Thiel will be replaced by Carlton Williams, head of the city’s Office of Clean and Green Initiatives. Mayor Parker emphasized the importance of the position, which oversees 36 departments. [🔒 The Inquirer]

SEPTA Tests All-Access Pass Expansion

SEPTA is exploring a new way to expand its Key Advantage program beyond universities and employers to include apartment buildings. A Fishtown apartment complex could become the first to test the pilot, allowing building owners to purchase discounted transit passes that would give tenants free SEPTA rides. The program would offer apartment complexes a competitive edge, while increasing SEPTA ridership and partnerships. [KYW]

Landlords Sued Over Alleged Rent-Fixing Software

Three lawsuits filed this month accuse major property management companies of using AI-powered data sharing software to set rent prices. This comes after City Council passed a law barring landlords from using services or products that help coordinate housing prices, which can lead to more expensive rent. The lawsuits, which also target the tech companies behind the software, are the first to test the strength of this law. [Technical.ly]

The Man Taking On Philly's Red-Light Cameras

Criminal defense attorney and civil rights activist Michael Coard is challenging the Philadelphia Parking Authority's red-light and speed camera programs, arguing they're designed simply to generate revenue, not to improve public safety. Currently in a ticket battle himself, Coard says PPA is "operating in bad faith." [Philadelphia Magazine]

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

Do you recognize where this artwork is?

While on the search, you can:

• Shop the world without leaving city limits.
• Visit this pop-up storefront with products from Philly’s immigrant community.
• Treat yourself to a scoop of ice cream.
• Catch a flick outdoors.
• Tell the city your vision for Market East.
• Practice your parallel parking before the big competition.
• Eat from the best of Philly’s Mexican food scene.
• Learn about what makes Philadelphians special.