PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Top city leaders, including planners and hospitality officials as well as small business people gathered this week to discuss the state of Philadelphia.
They were looking for “transformative ideas’ to impact jobs and the quality of life in the city.

Deputy Mayor Alan Greenberger (partially hidden at far right in photo) says the conversations centered on having a vision for Philadelphia’s future over the next 25 years.

“It doesn’t mean everything we can imagine happening will happen. That takes resources, and the imagination of future generations.”

But Greenberger says it will take political, business and community willpower. “Plans are very much about organizing will and getting the stars into alignment.”

Another speaker, the President and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jack Ferguson, says they’re growing demand segments, including meetings and conventions, business, leisure and international travelers.

“They come because they hear about Philadelphia. They know about the cultural and historical aspects, the great restaurants, it’s walkable, scaleable and ease of access in and out.”

Reported By Steve Tawa, KYW Newsradio