On Dec. 11, the Philadelphia School Board approved a resolution to begin the process of transferring ownership of empty district buildings to the city, a move aimed at cutting costs and revitalizing unused spaces.
Resolution Details
The board passed the resolution on Thursday, Dec. 11, allowing the district to consider handing over vacant and surplus school buildings to the City of Philadelphia.
Financial Impact
According to the school board, the unused buildings consume financial resources that could otherwise support the district’s 300 in‑use schools. By transferring these properties, the district hopes to free up funds for classroom needs.
Statements from Leaders
“By responsibly evaluating how to put these unused properties back into productive use, the District can stay focused on educating children while supporting broader City efforts that ultimately aim to strengthen neighborhoods,” wrote Philadelphia School District Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington in a statement.
Chief Deputy Mayor Vanessa Garrett Harley added, “Tonight’s Board action establishes a process for the important step of transferring long‑abandoned school buildings to the City of Philadelphia, saving the District money that can be better spent in the classroom,” in a statement to NBC10.
Future Steps
The mayor’s office has reportedly expressed interest in repurposing the properties. When a final agreement is reached between the district and the city regarding the vacant buildings, the board will review it and vote to decide.
Key Takeaways
- The board passed a resolution on Dec. 11 to explore transferring vacant buildings to the city.
- The move aims to free up funds for the district’s 300 operating schools.
- Statements from Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington and Chief Deputy Mayor Vanessa Garrett Harley emphasize cost savings and productive use of unused spaces.
The resolution marks a significant step toward optimizing the district’s real‑estate assets and supporting broader city efforts to strengthen neighborhoods.
