Marketing CEO Now Leads Influential Center City Residents Group
By Stacia Friedman
Marketing executive Leo Levinson has taken the helm of the Center City Residents Association (CCRA), bringing renewed energy to the organization that serves as the primary advocate for quality of life issues in Philadelphia's downtown residential core.
"We're the best kept secret in the neighborhood," says Levinson, who plans to boost CCRA's 2,000-person membership through enhanced outreach and a new speakers bureau.
The organization plays a crucial role in shaping Center City's development, working directly with police on public safety and weighing in on zoning decisions that affect the neighborhood's character.
Public Safety Progress
Levinson points to recent successes in public safety, noting double-digit crime reduction over the past year and increased police presence, including new bicycle and mounted patrols along Walnut Street. The organization maintains close ties with law enforcement through monthly Police Advisory Council meetings.
A self-described "marketing expert, publicist, gourmand... and lousy golfer," Levinson returned to Center City twelve years ago after three decades in the suburbs. He and his wife purchased a condo at 23rd & Chestnut, drawn back by the area's renowned restaurant scene that first attracted them in the era of Le Bec Fin and the Commissary.
Life in Center City
The new president, who follows Philadelphia's top chefs "the way others follow the Eagles," is particularly excited about recent addition Sura Indian Bistro on the 1700 block of Chestnut. When not dining out at neighborhood favorites like Vernick Fish or Parc, he can be found at home perfecting his Cassoulet de Canard.
Beyond the culinary scene, Levinson is focused on addressing complex neighborhood challenges, including homelessness.
"We're involved in enhancing quality of life, but in many cases, that means taking small steps," he says. "It's a labor of love. This is my neighborhood and I want it to be the best it can be. Many people would be members if they knew how we advocate for them regarding zoning, the police, trash removal. We're the best kept secret in the neighborhood!"
For more information about CCRA membership and initiatives, visit CenterCityResidents.org.