Letter from Fitler Square: A Neighbor's Take on Proposed Cafe

Last week, we covered the zoning dispute surrounding a proposed cafe at 244 S. 22nd Street. While online discussions, particularly on platforms like Reddit, showed strong support for the zoning change, we recognize the importance of presenting diverse neighborhood perspectives.

To that end, we're publishing a reader's letter opposing the project. This letter offers another perspective in the ongoing community dialogue about local development and zoning issues.

Let your voice be heard by joining the Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting on September 25.

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Author: Terri Steinberg

Terri.steinberg@gmail.com

September 9, 2024

Subject: Objection to Zoning Change for 244 S 22nd Street, hearing date Sept 25, 2024

Dear Members of the Zoning Board of Appeals:

I am writing to formally object to the proposed zoning change for 244 S. 22nd Street. As a resident of the adjacent side street, Rittenhouse Square, I am deeply concerned about the potential negative impacts this change will have on the character of our block, which is both historic and residential. I was unable to participate in the registered community organization meeting by the Center City Residents Association (CCRA), which recorded no objections. I am sharing my profound objections with both the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) and the CCRA.

One of the primary concerns is the increase in foot and vehicle traffic that this new development would inevitably bring. The street adjacent to this property, Rittenhouse Square (street), is a historically quaint and quiet very narrow residential street. Increased traffic will disrupt the charm and serenity of this one-block street which is home to neighbors who take pride in maintaining a safe and clean block.

Additionally, our street is already experiencing a serious rodent problem, which has been exacerbated by insufficient trash management practices on Manning Street, which is the other adjacent block. Despite plans for proper internal storage solutions for waste, this issue is likely to worsen, causing further harm to the health and quality of life of residents. Any new business, especially one that may involve food or beverage services, will only increase the strain on the area’s already struggling trash management systems.

Deliveries and pickups for a food service business will likely occur around the corner on Rittenhouse Square, as this would more (sic) convenient than stopping on 22nd St. which is extremely busy during rush-hour, times when this proposed business would operate. Parking around the corner, on Rittenhouse Square, would severely impact the quality of life on our block, as Rittenhouse Square is a narrow street with parking only on one side. This would, in fact, lead to parking on the sidewalk around the corner from the proposed business, which would be disasterous (sic). Further if pickups and deliveries were to occur immediately in front of the proposed business these would block a designated bicycle lane. This is especially important as many community parents use the bicycle lane to transport their children to Greenwood elementary school three blocks away. The increase in foot and vehicle traffic associated with a food service business should be avoided in this specific location.

There is no demonstrated community need for this particular establishment. There are already two coffee shops within a one-block radius—one at 23rd and Spruce and another at 22nd and Pine. Both businesses serve the community effectively, making it unnecessary to introduce additional competition that could also negatively impact existing local businesses.

For these reasons, I strongly urge the Zoning Board of Appeals to decline the proposed zoning change. The preservation of our community’s unique character, as well as the health and safety of its residents, should take priority.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Terri Steinberg