The Greater Philadelphia Area
PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Kenney released the organizational chart of his administration to the public.
“Our administration is continuing its efforts to make city government more accessible to Philadelphians than ever before,” Mayor Kenney said in a statement. “The organization of our administration mirrors closely the model laid out in the City Charter, and we’ve seen already that this realignment has led to a more efficient, effective delivery of services to Philadelphians.”
Philadelphia, November 19, 2015 – Mayor Michael A. Nutter signed legislation requiring that privately-owned establishments that service the public, like restaurants, replace gender specific signage designating male or female on single-occupancy bathrooms with gender-neutral signage into law. The legislation, introduced by Councilman Mark Squilla on behalf of the Nutter Administration, expands inclusivity requirements on city-owned facilities with single-stall restrooms to privately-owned establishments and helps ensure that all Philadelphians have access to safe bathrooms.
“Philadelphia is a world-class, welcoming city that proudly celebrates the diversity of our residents and communities. Our inclusive practices and commitment to equality makes our city truly great and a leader on LGBT issues,” said Mayor Nutter. “This legislation expands and strengthens gender-identity protections and is an important step in support of our LGBT community, especially our transgender community members. I am proud that Philadelphia is one of the largest cities in the nation to implement this kind of policy and I want to thank Councilman Squilla for introducing this bill on our Administration’s behalf.”
All signage on applicable bathroom facilities must be changed by January 20, 2016, the legislation’s effective date. The Department of Licenses and Inspections will oversee enforcement of the law.
PHILADELPHIA, PA —
According to preliminary data released today by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the unemployment rate in Philadelphia declined to 6.5% for April 2015, down from 7.1% in March 2015 and 7.5% for April 2014. In addition, the number of jobs in Philadelphia increased by 4,300 from March to April to 687,100, the highest number for April since 2001 and 10,900 more jobs than April 2014. By comparison the number of jobs in Philadelphia in January 2008 was 652,100, 35,000 fewer jobs than today.
“Philadelphia is on the rise and our Administration is focused on ensuring that all Philadelphians share in this prosperity,” said Mayor Michael A. Nutter. “There are more Philadelphians working today than at any point for almost 25 years, and Philadelphia has recovered from the recession faster than the country as a whole. We are strengthening our efforts to support business growth and attract new companies to a city that is gaining an unprecedented level of attention.”
Other highlights from the recent BLS data include:
“The latest employment data is very encouraging and is a reflection of a city that is growing and thriving,” said Alan Greenberger, Deputy Mayor for Economic Development. “By supporting the growth of existing businesses through programs such as 10,000 Small Businesses and Kiva City Philadelphia, attracting new companies, and undertaking major new developments such as the $350 million renovation of the Gallery, we are working every day to create new jobs and economic opportunities for all Philadelphians.”