Residents of Grays Ferry voicing concerns over the CHOP garage, citing it as a potential health risk

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Proposes Parking Garage in Grays Ferry

In the heart of Grays Ferry, a vacant lot is set to become a 1,005-unit parking garage for the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). However, the proposal has sparked controversy and protests from local residents and community groups.

The hospital's plan includes a community health space, more greenery, public art, improved pedestrian features, and a ground-floor community health space. Yet, concerns about the potential impact on health and the environment persist.

Valerie Carr, a lifelong resident of Grays Ferry, voiced her concerns, stating that the proposed parking garage is a health hazard. Community members are worried that the garage and accompanying traffic could exacerbate air pollution and adverse health conditions, such as asthma.

These concerns are not new to the community. Shawmar Pitts, co-managing director of environmental justice group Philly Thrive, reiterated that the community does not want a parking garage in the area. Pitts also accused the hospital of trying to get rich off of a Black and brown neighborhood, a sentiment echoed by Christal Heath, another member of Philly Thrive.

The hospital, however, insists it is taking the community's concerns seriously. It has engaged in 10 meetings to discuss the impact of the garage on residents and is providing grant funding for Grays Ferry nonprofits, exploring expanded pediatric clinical services in the neighborhood, and supporting local employment and parking options for residents near the garage.

The No CHOP Garage Coalition, which includes Philly Thrive, 5th Square, Asian Americans United, and Reclaim Philadelphia, hosted a rally to voice their opposition. Over 1,000 people have signed a petition calling for CHOP to end the parking garage project. Attendees held signs reading "Parks not Parking," and "Choose health over profit."

Rallygoers plan to continue protesting the garage and are urged to voice their concerns at the Philadelphia City Planning Commission's meeting on Sept. 22. Construction of the parking garage was previously slated to begin late this summer for an opening in fall 2026, but the hospital could not provide further details on the project's timeline.

Despite the opposition, the hospital's commitment to child and community health in Grays Ferry remains. It is promoting several community-requested initiatives in the neighbourhood, aiming to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

As the debate continues, it is clear that the community's voice is being heard, and their concerns are being addressed. The future of the proposed parking garage in Grays Ferry remains uncertain, but the community's determination to protect their health and environment is unwavering.