Altman and Greenberger Discuss New Role of Planning Commission in Development Review

The Mayor has made it clear that development review should begin at the Planning Commission.  The goal is for the Planning Commission to evaluate a project to ensure it is good for Philadelphia.  While the Charter gives the Planning Commission limited powers, by bringing smart, thorough, thoughtful analysis to each major project, Planning will earn its authority over time. 

Developers are expected to bring the project to planning before any commitments are made to community groups.  While the community can be consulted during the time the Planning Commission is evaluating the plan, Planning wants to see the plan when there is still flexibility to modify it.  Planning does intend to enforce higher standards for design and be more critical of projects in the future.  At the same time, Planning will proactively meet with the community and get out in the fray to move a good project forward.