Safety of residential area around western end of Powelton Ave, Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in UC (Springfield: apartments)

[svart aske]

Hi guys, I am a staring grad school in August and am looking to share a house on in UC with some other students. Since we're all pretty budget-conscious most of the houses/apartments that we've considered fall west of 40th where housing seems to be cheaper.

But we are now looking at an apartment on N Preston Street that fits into our budget. Looking a Google Maps Street View the area looks a little quieter and the streets/buildings less well-kept compared to the houses/apartments south of Market St.

Can anyone who knows more about that area offer some advice? Based on the info we have now, that apartment is a more attractive choice than some of the other ones west of 40th that we've considered; the only thing about which we have reservation is the safety.

And does anyone know if Penn security patrols that area (I'm assuming they do since it's close to the medical center)?

Thanks!

[svart aske]

Can anyone help? We want to make a decision fairly soon.

Thanks

[PennKid]

Sorry Svart,
It seems your post was overlooked. The neighborhood you are looking at is an up-and coming area, but it is still rather sketchy. There used to be a lot more lots with shredded tires and car parts, but it's really been spruced up. The acceptable portions are all south of Spring Garden. It's actually surprising for me how much new construction is there, and honestly just how many young, unconcerned white people are walking around; it's honestly never been that bad, however, with its proximity to the heart of Powelton Village. I think you could live there perfectly fine as long as you stick to blocks that look well-kept- youll find that many of your new neighbors will be quite friendly and have been keeping up their blocks for years.
Best of luck,
Dave

[orrmobl]

This thread has a safety map if you will...probably worth a look...http://www.city-data.com/forum/phila...afety-map.html

[svart aske]

Thanks for the replies. I've settled for a house on 42nd and Chestnut. I hope we won't find it to be too noisy.

[FindingZen]

Originally Posted by svart aske

Thanks for the replies. I've settled for a house on 42nd and Chestnut. I hope we won't find it to be too noisy.

You'll be on a major thoroughfare so you'll hear plenty of car and bus noise. Personally, I would have preferred a place from Walnut south to Springfield but you should be okay.