2007 HUD Secretary's Opportunity and Empowerment Award Winner

American Street Empowerment Zone Neighborhood
Philadelphia

Since authorized as one of six federal urban empowerment zones in 1994, the American Street Empowerment Zone Neighborhood has brought in more than 100 new businesses to the area including a supermarket, several restaurants, four national retailers, and eight warehouses and distribution centers. Helping attract these businesses to the area has been a community-based lending institution, which has secured more than $21 million in private and public investments. Other changes through the Emowerment Zone include $8 million in streetscape improvements; operation of a new light-rail trolley along Girard Avenue; clean up of vacant lots; and improved neighborhood security.

HUD Secretary's Awards