Mantua
Mantua
| Type | Neighborhood |
|---|---|
| Location | West Philadelphia |
| ZIP code(s) | 19104 |
| Named for | Mantua, Italy |
| Boundaries | Roughly Spring Garden Street to Market Street, 34th Street to 44th Street |
| Adjacent | Powelton Village, University City, Belmont Village |
| Major streets | Lancaster Avenue, Haverford Avenue, 40th Street |
| Transit | Market-Frankford Line (40th Street Station), SEPTA bus routes |
| Landmarks | Promise Zone designation, historic housing stock |
Mantua is a neighborhood in West Philadelphia that has been designated a federal Promise Zone, recognizing its need for targeted investment and development. The neighborhood has faced significant challenges including poverty and disinvestment, but community organizations and city initiatives are working toward revitalization.
History
[edit | edit source]Mantua was developed in the 19th century and became home to working-class and middle-class African-American families. The neighborhood declined significantly in the late 20th century but has been the focus of renewed attention and investment.
Promise Zone
[edit | edit source]In 2014, Mantua was designated a federal Promise Zone, one of the first in the nation:
- Federal investment priority
- Grant preferences
- Community development focus
- Partnership between city, residents, and institutions
Character
[edit | edit source]Challenges
[edit | edit source]- Poverty
- Property vacancies
- Limited commercial services
- Crime concerns
Assets
[edit | edit source]- Strong community organizations
- Proximity to universities
- Historic housing stock
- Federal investment attention
Living in Mantua
[edit | edit source]- Affordable housing
- Community development efforts
- Improving conditions
- Close to University City
Getting There
[edit | edit source]- Market-Frankford Line:*** 40th Street Station
- SEPTA bus routes:*** 31, 40, 43