Philadelphia:  A New Urban Direction

Philadelphia: A New Urban Direction poses the question: What must city government do to make the City of Philadelphia a preferred place to live, work, and play into the next century? Philadelphia: A New Urban Direction received the 1999 "Special Project Award" from the National Association of Local Government Auditors. 

"We can wholeheartedly endorse the boast in the book's blurb that it is 'an extraordinary insider's account of the inner workings of city government.' [...] This is a fascinating book at many levels, and not merely for those interested in the specific case of Philadelphia: most of its lessons can be applied to any metropolis. [...] In summary, this is a valuable contribution to urban history and social science. Congratulations to Saint Joseph's University Press for having tackled such an innovative venture." - Philip Jenkins (The Pennsylvania State University), Pennsylvania History

"It is refreshing to read an analysis of the issues facing Philadelphia coupled with a charge to its government that it can make a difference. If the city government were to adopt this process as a means of shaping its programs, the results would be truly revolutionary. Saidel's presentation combines traditional liberal government policies (addressing community needs) with conservative operating assumptions (the city as business) and a communitarian ethic (the government is responsible to the people, and should be evaluated by the quality of its work). What Saidel promises, he provides, in a well-written and engaging style. It should be of interest for all those who are concerned about the future of Philadelphia." - David Bartelt, Professor and Chair, Geography and Urban Studies, Temple University

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