New Plan Calls For More Open Space Along Delaware River

By David Madden

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Planners in Philadelphia have approved the latest vision for a six-mile stretch along the Delaware River, one that could take a quarter century to become reality.

The stretch, from Allegheny Avenue down to Oregon, was once teeming with commercial shipping.

But most of that activity has moved elsewhere along the river, according to Gary Jastrzab, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Planning Commission. The new plan calls for more open space and, "Promoting better access to the riverfront from the neighborhoods to the west and to extend those neighborhoods in terms of new residential, mixed use and other kinds of commercial uses," said Jastrzab.

Opponents suggest the plan may adversely affect current property owners in the area and besides, the city just can't afford it all. Jastrzab says the blueprint can, and probably will change over time and those property owners will be compensated if need be to make it work.

For more information on the master plan, CLICK HERE.