PennFuture Blog

Lena Smith

A Welcomed Shift in Philadelphia’s Approach to Infrastructure Financing

by Lena Smith
It’s refreshing to see the Philadelphia Water Department pursue innovative approaches towards financing and fixing very old issues with the city’s aging infrastructure. Read more

PennFuture joins with the Philadelphia Coalition for Affordable Communities

by Lena Smith
PennFuture is proud to stand among the members of this new coalition in seeking community-led solutions to Philadelphia’s affordability and land justice challenges. Read more

Green and Complete Streets Programs are Good for Communities and the Environment

by Lena Smith
PennFuture is recommending investments in green and complete streets to address decades of neglect including the environmental injustices of the urban heat island effect, unequal access to green space, and stormwater pollution. Read more

How a Clean Water Program is Addressing Equity in Philadelphia

by Lena Smith
Whether it’s the COVID-19 public health crisis, structural racism, economic downturn, or gun violence, one action can offer real solutions to them all: investing in green space. Read more

Philly Can Achieve a Green New Deal through Green Stormwater Infrastructure

by Lena Smith
As Philadelphia City Council’s environmental leaders discuss what a Green New Deal means for the city, their legislative agendas must focus on addressing current barriers to implementing the Green City Clean Waters program. Read more

After Stormy Decade, Philly Needs Green Stormwater Solutions to Prepare for Climate Change

by Lena Smith
PennFuture is working to raise awareness of how the climate crisis affects Philadelphia's aging infrastructure. Read more

PennFuture organizes tour of Philadelphia green stormwater infrastructure sites

by Lena Smith
Often times, showing is better than telling. That’s why PennFuture last month organized a bus tour in an effort to highlight the social, economic and environmental benefits of green stormwater infrastructure in Philadelphia. Read more

The Opportunity for Green Stormwater Infrastructure in Philadelphia’s Rebuild Initiative

This picture, courtesy of the Philadelphia Water Department, shows Heron Playground’s Porous Surface.
by Lena Smith
Green Stormwater Infrastructure is integral to Philadelphia’s economy, environment, and social equity. Read more