An Activist Walking Guide to Chinatown

Walk the streets of Philadelphia’s historic Chinatown and see how large-scale public infrastructure and urban redevelopment, including the Convention Center, have boxed in this multi-ethnic, socioeconomically diverse community. In addition to leaving Chinatown with no room to grow, these barriers have physically divided the neighborhood and contributed to concerns about affordability and safety.

See how major infrastructure, urban renewal, and development projects have affected Chinatown over time and how the community has responded. Over the years, local groups have risen to defend, protect, and help Chinatown thrive. Construction of the Vine Street Expressway through Chinatown spurred formation of the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation.

Stops include the Convention Center, Fashion District, Vine Street Expressway,10th Street Plaza, Chinatown Community Center, and Rail Park. Presenters discuss how planning — including a Chinatown Neighborhood Plan and a feasibility study to cap the expressway, advocacy, and grassroots activism work together to push for a different approach to development that is more equitable, inclusive, and grounded in community. Learn how planners in the private and public sectors can support such local efforts.