City Programs

2023 CHANGES TO MNYK

Towpath Improvement Project

Work has officially commenced on a $725,000 project to improve the towpath boardwalk from Cotton Street to Canal View Park. With funding from The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR), The Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED) and funding from Councilmember Jones’ office, this project implements a long-awaited design plan manufactured by Andropogon Associates and approved by our Board in 2015. This project includes the clearing and grubbing of overgrown plants, widening the path, and beautification including rest-stops, new landscaping, banners, and more. This project is expected to be complete by Summer 2023.

New Home for MDC Headquarters

Construction is underway at 106 Grape Street, the location of a brand-new, four-story property that will be owned and operated by the Manayunk Development Corporation. With an estimated completion date of Summer 2023, this building will not only house MDC and MSSD operations, but also feature a groundfloor retail incubator space to attract new entrepreneurs to Manayunk as well as a top-floor conference room space that will be available for community use.

Canal Project

After years of discussions to improve water flow in the Manayunk Canal, The Philadelphia Water Department is in the midst of a new Flat Rock Dam & Sluice project. This project involves improving the connection of the Schuylkill River to the canal through the construction of new structures, the improvement of existing structures, the stabilization and preservation of historic elements at the Feeder Gate House, and the installation of a new intake system that will control the water flow into the canal as needed. This project is set to be complete by Fall 2024.

CITY PROGRAMS

Storefront Improvement Program

Businesses and property owners may be eligible to receive grant money for facade improvements. The program can reimburse up to 50 percent of the cost of eligible improvements to a maximum of $10,000 for a single commercial property, or up to $15,000 for a multiple-address or corner business property.

Examples of eligible improvements include: • Masonry/bring pointing • Cornices • Exterior painting • Windows/glazing • Exterior doors • Exterior facade lighting • See-through security grills • Signage and awnings Details can be found at: https://www.phila.gov/programs/storefront-improvement-program/

Business Security Camera Program

The Business Security Camera Program encourages businesses to install external cameras on commercial properties. The program seeks to increase safety for shoppers, residents, and employees. Participants can receive • Up to 50 percent of the total eligible costs. • Up to $3,000 for a single commercial property

Details can be found at https://www.phila.gov/programs/business-security-camera-program/

Philadelphia Business Lending Network

The Philadelphia Business Lending Network simplifies the process of applying for loans. This service provides access to 25 nonprofit and for-profit lenders with one form.

To apply, visit https://phila-uyims.formstack.com/forms/capital_consortium_business_information_form

For details, visit https://www.phila.gov/services/business-self-employment/support-for-businesses/find-loans-throughthe-philadelphia-business-lending-network/