Your Daily Guide

Philadelphia is testing out two prototypes as potential standard designs for future streeteries for bars and restaurants to adopt in the city. The cheaper design features a bubble-shaped aluminum barrier that can be customized with different colors. The other one has slated fencing made out of recycled materials and leaves space to include greenery.

• Why the Change? The pandemic-era boom of streeteries to keep businesses afloat resulted in a free-for-all of different structures. So the city implemented restrictions to crack down on poorly constructed displays, free up parking spots, and regulate types of heating. But that meant business owners who spent thousands to expand dining outside were forced to dismantle their streeteries, and many didn’t apply for new ones. A standard design could help business owners save time and money.
• Red Tape. Business owners previously voiced frustration over a duplicate application process through the Streets Department and the Department of Licenses and Inspections, not to mention high application fees on top construction costs. Businesses also felt stifled by restrictions on propane heating and electricity extensions, and distance requirements. The controller said such hurdles also meant lost revenue for the city.
• Easing the Burden. The city began to loosen its restrictions on outdoor dining by expanding the zones that didn’t require a special permit. That privilege previously only applied to restaurants in Center City and select business corridors.
• Share Your Thoughts. Residents who see the displays at LOVE Park and scan a QR code to vote for their favorite design have the chance to win a $50 gift card. Restaurant owners and architects are invited to visit on Oct. 20 to view the prototypes and give feedback.
• Where To Dine Out. It’s beginning to get too chilly to eat outside, so bookmark our favorite spots for outdoor dining for when it warms up again.

Where’s the Beef?

About $40,000 worth of beef was swiped from a semi-truck early Tuesday morning and police are on the hunt for at least three suspects. The heist comes just two weeks after beef was snatched from a truck in South Philly and a Krispy Kreme truck was stolen in Frankford. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

PGW’s Top Boss Accepted Pricey Gifts

Philadelphia Gas Works CEO Seth Shapiro is in hot water for failing to disclose he accepted free trips to spring training from the Phillies and other gifts in violation of state ethics law. The gas utility, which is publicly owned, has spent over $1 million to advertise with the team. And it’s not as if Shapiro can’t afford the freebies: He makes more than any other city employee, including the mayor. [WHYY]

State Lawmaker Steps Down From Duties Following Homophobia Allegations

Republican State Rep. Aaron Bernstine resigned from his House committees following allegations that he called fellow lawmaker Democrat State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta homophobic slurs at a Harrisburg bar. Kenyatta, along with other legislators, had called on Bernstine to resign from office entirely. [6abc]

Philly’s Disappearing Population

The number of residents under the age of 18 dropped 9% between 2010 and 2025. Rising childcare costs, reduction in teen pregnancies, and a desire for flexibility in daily life are among the reasons. The imbalance could cause problems down the line, especially straining Social Security. [🔒 The Inquirer]

• Related: Who has been keeping Philly’s population afloat? If it weren’t for immigration, Philly’s population would have dropped by 90,000 since 2020. [City and State PA]