City Ave District recently welcomed members of the ULI Philadelphia Housing Product Council for an engaging panel discussion and walking tour examining the ongoing transformation of Bala Cynwyd and the City Avenue corridor.
The program brought together industry professionals, planners, developers, and community leaders to explore how strategic public and private investment, new housing opportunities, pedestrian infrastructure improvements, and strong regional partnerships are helping reshape the area from a traditionally car-centric office corridor into a vibrant, walkable mixed-use destination.
As a unique special services district spanning both Philadelphia and Lower Merion Township, City Ave District serves as a prime example of how cross-municipal collaboration can support economic growth, community development, and long-term placemaking efforts.
The discussion was moderated by Connor Burke, Principal at Alterra Property Group, and featured a distinguished panel of local leaders, including Mark Brennan, Vice President of Development at Federal Realty Investment Trust; Jennifer Dougherty, AICP, Manager of Real Estate Planning and Development at SEPTA; Peter Staz, Principal of Core Developmentt; and Chris Leswing, Director of Building and Planning for Lower Merion Township.
Panelists shared insights on the policies, partnerships, and investments that have contributed to the corridor’s evolution, highlighting the importance of housing diversity, transportation connectivity, pedestrian accessibility, and coordinated planning in creating a more resilient and attractive community.
Following the discussion, attendees toured The Blayr, Federal Realty’s recently completed 217-unit apartment community located at 145 E. City Avenue. Developed on the former Lord & Taylor site, The Blayr represents a significant milestone in the ongoing revitalization of the corridor and exemplifies the shift toward a more integrated live-work-play environment.
The event provided participants with a firsthand look at how public policy, community engagement, and private investment are converging to create new opportunities throughout the City Avenue corridor. It also reinforced the importance of continued collaboration among municipalities, developers, transit agencies, property owners, and community stakeholders as the area continues to grow.
City Ave District extends its gratitude to ULI Philadelphia, moderator Connor Burke, our panelists, Federal Realty for hosting the tour, and all attendees who joined us for this thoughtful conversation about the future of housing, placemaking, and economic development in our region.
We look forward to continuing the work of building a more connected, walkable, and vibrant City Avenue corridor for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
