Moving to University City (Philadelphia, Clark: apartment, houses, safest area)

[sam1985]

Hi
I am a graduate student moving to Philadelphia from Florida to study at Drexel. I have been able to find an apartment that suits my needs near 41st and Powelton Av. However, I am worried about moving there because I am not sure how safe this neighbourhood is. All the people that I talk with about my move are constantly advising me about being "safe" in Philadelphia.

Could someone please let me know if this area (41st and Powelton) is safe. I plan on walking/riding a bicycle to Drexel. Since I am a graduate student, I am guessing that I might have to stay back late on some days too.

I would be very grateful if someone can shed some light on this.

Thanks

[Clark Park]

I live about 12 blocks away from the location you described in the safer and more desireable part of University City - the Spruce Hill neighborhood.

The place you mentioned does have a neighborhood name: West Powelton Village. Whereas Powelton Village proper - closer to Drexel - is going through gentrification, you must be aware that West Powelton is still rather sketchy and not one of the safest areas in West Philly. I think this is a good area for property investors to get into because I can see gentrification taking place here in a few years; but you are interested in the current status of the West Powelton neighborhood.

It doesn't look bad, it is rather tidy neighborhood with a lot of late 19th Century and early 20th Century rowhouses. Penn Presbyterian Hospital is nearby. Demographic-wise it is overwhelmingly African American. A few years ago it could be regarded as a "ghetto" but intrepid students looking for affordable housing have begin to trickle in. There is almost no shopping nearby, and I think the closest supermarket would be the Supreme Shop 'n Bag at 44th and and Walnut several blocks away.

Again, it is a bit dodgy. I wouldn't feel unsafe in broad daylight, but be mindful of criminal types after dark. This area is not patrolled by the University City District "Street Ambassadors" (bike patrol officers) ... indeed this area is really not in University City at all, but adjacent to it.

Good luck!

[sam1985]

Thanks Clark Park for the info. I guess it's better if I look at some other places. I really dont want to be in place where I'd have to look over my shoulder everytime I go out.
From what I have heard, its better to stick with the university city area.

Thanks again

[Frank Bones]

I mostly agree with Clark Park. Couple things to add though. 41st and Powelton isn't that far from the Penn Police Zone (about a block) which tends to be patrolled fairly well. The closest grocery store is probably Fresh Grocer, which isn't too far especially if you'll have a bike.

If this is your first time living in an urban area, then I probably would try to look elsewhere first. The area you're asking about is a transitional zone. It's not the best area, but you'll probably be fine if you use common sense. If you do end up there, I would suggest commuting via bicycle. It's a bit far from Drexel to walk and you'll probably be safer if you bike.

[Clark Park]

See if you can find someplace to live within the actual borders of University City District. There is an organization, UCD (University City District) that is well funded by the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel, University of the Sciences, the Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College, Wistar Institute, and several businesses located in the district. UCD employs a couple of hundred security officers, bike patrolmen, walking escorts as well as paid for fancy "historical looking" street lights, hidden security cameras, etc. all over the district. Philly Police have a few sub-stations in the immediate area as well.