The intersection of 43rd and Baltimore is closed due to a sinkhole (Photo West Philly Local).

UPDATE (6/5/2019): The sinkhole at 43rd and Baltimore was caused by a major sewer line break, according to SEPTA. Although the hole is only about 3 feet long on the surface, it extends approximately 20 feet across below the surface. While the Philadelphia Water Department crews are working to repair the hole (it might take a while), the Route 34 will continue to operate as a shuttle bus between 61st Street and the 40th Street Portal. Stay tuned for further announcements.

(6/4/2019, 9:53 a.m.): A large sinkhole has opened up at the intersection of 43rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, right in the middle of the Route 34 trolley line. The intersection is currently closed to traffic while constructions crews are preparing to dig up the street. As of 4:50 a.m. this morning, all Route 34 trolleys are being replaced by buses:

Rte 34: Shuttle buses will operate in both directions between 40th Street Portal and 61st and Baltimore Ave due to a sinkhole. Expect delays until further notice.

— SEPTA (@SEPTA_TRL_34) June 4, 2019

This sinkhole is just the latest in a long battle between developers, builders, planners and Mill Creek. This short film from four years ago shows the history.

The Buried River from Anne Whiston Spirn on Vimeo.

Good Shepherd Community Church (Photo West Philly Local).

The Garden Court Community Association zoning committee will consider a proposal on Tuesday, June 4 to demolish part of the Good Shepherd Community Church building near 46th and Spruce and build a 32-unit apartment complex.

The property at 314-316 S. 46th St. is zoned RSA-3, which accommodates singe-family dwellings. Developers are also asking for variances for the front setback (eight feet is required and zero is proposed) and parking. Zoning requires 32 spaces and the proposal includes none.  Continue Reading