Most of the stories that took off this year started the same way: someone noticed something odd, frustrating, or out of place and asked, do you know what’s going on here?
That question is the backbone of The Fitler Focus. We follow the paper trail, talk to city officials and business owners, and give neighbors clear answers about the places they pass every day.
Here are the ten stories Fitler Square read most in 2025, ranked from least to most views.
10. River Trail Extension Links Fitler Square to Grays Ferry
A long-anticipated trail connection finally stitched Fitler Square more cleanly into Grays Ferry, making car-free commuting to South Philly and beyond just a bit smoother.
9. Idling Trains Block Trail Access in Fitler Square
Freight trains continued to idle at the 25th & Locust crossing, cutting off access to the Schuylkill River Trail and testing the patience of runners and cyclists.
8. Long-Quiet Corner Reawakens With a Health-Forward Café
A sleepy corner near the river finally found its footing with Vita Sana, a wellness-minded café betting on juices, smoothies, and vibes.
7. A New Leash on Life: Schuylkill River Dog Park Completes Six-Figure Transformation
After years of worn-down turf, the Schuylkill River dog park got a six-figure glow-up that made both dogs and owners noticeably happier.
6. Greenfield School’s $880K Playground Makeover Reimagines Community Space
Greenfield Elementary unveiled plans for a nearly $1 million playground overhaul, aiming to create a safer and more inclusive space for students.
5. Meet the Man Behind Fitler’s Famous Corner
The cheerful corner at 24th and Manning, with its hand-painted birdhouses, little free library, and ever-changing seasonal displays, has become one of Fitler Square’s shining stars.
4. Grace Tavern Reborn Under New Ownership
After closing its doors, Grace Tavern is back with new ownership promising familiarity rather than reinvention.
3. Med Spa/Café Hybrid to Replace Long-Vacant 7-Eleven
After sitting dark for five years, the former 7-Eleven at 22nd and Lombard reopened as The J Spot, a boutique medical spa tucked behind a small juice and coffee café.
2. Who’s Projecting Samsung Ads on This Fitler Square High Rise?
Residents were startled to see massive Samsung phone ads suddenly projected onto a neighborhood skyscraper, courtesy of a mysterious van parked nearby.
1. Flooding at Schuylkill River Park Persists, Blocking Trail Access
Chronic flooding near a key Schuylkill River Park entrance turned rainstorms into obstacle courses, sometimes making trail access impossible.
Update on this story: On September 26, city crews excavated the site to fix what they said was “a broken pipe.” A source with direct knowledge of the work, who wished to remain anonymous, ballparked the cost of repair at $15,000 - $30,000. Since this work completed, the area no longer floods after rainstorms.
What’s on Your Mind?
These stories all started the same way: someone noticed something and asked a question. If you have one for 2026, about a blocked sidewalk, a confusing permit, a shuttered storefront, or a change that doesn’t quite add up, we want to hear it. The best Fitler Focus reporting begins with neighbors paying attention, and we’ll be right here, following up.