Community: Executive Director Letter

Dear Friends and Colleagues, 

This issue of Context is a special one for me because it is coinciding with the second BUILDPhilly Mayoral Forum that AIA Philadelphia has been instrumental in convening. BUILDPhilly (Built environment, Urban, Infrastructure, Land use, and Development) is a coalition of professional organizations and nonprofits addressing issues in the City of Philadelphia related to the built environment.  Eight years ago, I worked with many colleagues to bring this Coalition together. We all agreed then, as we do now, that there is strength in numbers in terms of hosting a well-attended and thoughtful Forum, but also there is a tremendous opportunity to shape the future of our City, if we are able to collaborate more often and consistently. If there any funders out there that would like to support the continuation of this group’s advocacy muscle, call me! 

Eli Storch, the editor of this issue, did an incredible job of identifying individuals to share their thoughts and recommendations with the next mayor of Philadelphia.  Just like 8 years ago when this Coalition came together, it is validating to me that although the voices, perspectives, and the organizations represented in the BUILDPhilly Coalition are diverse, there are several themes that emerge.  It is my sincere hope that the next Mayor of Philadelphia, City Council members, and other City leaders see a common, shared path to designing and building the future of Philadelphia.  

It is also my hope that you all see the passion, commitment, and generosity that these articles express. Not one opinion expressed here ignores the consequences of the recommendation suggested by the author. To the next Mayor of Philadelphia, please consider this as an expression of a sizable amount of common ground on which we can work together to create a prosperous, equitable, sustainable, and resilient Philadelphia.   

Cheers, 

Rebecca Johnson