Crestmont Farms
| Type | Neighborhood |
|---|---|
| Location | Far Northeast Philadelphia |
| ZIP code(s) | 19115 |
| Boundaries | Roughly near Bustleton Avenue and Byberry Road |
| Adjacent | Bustleton, Somerton, Parkwood Manor |
| Major streets | Bustleton Avenue, Byberry Road |
| Transit | SEPTA bus routes |
| Landmarks | Suburban development |
Crestmont Farms is a small residential neighborhood in the Far Northeast, featuring post-World War II suburban development typical of the area. The neighborhood developed during the mid-20th century expansion of Philadelphia's northeastern sections, transforming from agricultural land into a suburban residential community with single-family homes.
History
The name "Crestmont Farms" reflects the area's agricultural origins before its development as a residential neighborhood. Following World War II, the Far Northeast Philadelphia experienced rapid suburban development as returning veterans and growing families sought affordable housing outside the city's densely populated central areas. Crestmont Farms was developed during this period, with construction of single-family homes beginning in the 1950s and continuing through the 1960s. This development pattern mirrored the broader transformation of Northeast Philadelphia from farmland and undeveloped tracts into established suburban neighborhoods.
Character
Housing
The neighborhood consists primarily of single-family homes built in the popular architectural styles of the mid-20th century. Split-level and ranch-style homes dominate the housing stock, reflecting the suburban design preferences of the 1950s and 1960s when most of the area was developed. These homes typically sit on moderate to larger lots compared to older Philadelphia neighborhoods, providing residents with yard space characteristic of suburban development. The architectural character remains largely intact from the original construction period, giving the neighborhood a cohesive mid-century aesthetic.
Community
Crestmont Farms is home to established middle-class families who have contributed to the neighborhood's stable residential character. The area maintains a quiet, residential focus with strong connections to the broader Far Northeast community. Like much of the Far Northeast, the neighborhood is predominantly car-dependent, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for daily transportation needs. The suburban layout and distance from Philadelphia's rapid transit lines necessitate automobile ownership for convenient access to employment centers, shopping, and other services.
Living in Crestmont Farms
Residents of Crestmont Farms enjoy suburban-style living within Philadelphia city limits. The neighborhood's proximity to Bustleton Avenue provides convenient access to commercial corridors with shopping, dining, and services typical of the Far Northeast. The residential streets maintain a quiet character separate from the busier commercial arteries. Due to the neighborhood's location and design, car transportation is necessary for most daily activities, including commuting to work, grocery shopping, and accessing recreational facilities.
Transportation
Public transportation to Crestmont Farms is provided by SEPTA bus service. Routes 14 and 58 serve the general area, connecting residents to other parts of Northeast Philadelphia and broader transit networks. Bustleton Avenue functions as the primary commercial corridor and transportation artery for the neighborhood, providing access to other sections of the city. However, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for most residents, reflecting the car-oriented development pattern of post-war suburban neighborhoods.