Francisville

Francisville is a small enclave in North Philadelphia nestled between Ridge, Corinthian and Girard Avenues. Francisville is a unique location in Philadelphia as it does not follow the North/South or East/West grid. However, it takes on a sideways approach to street configuration that mirrors Ridge Avenue, an old Indian trail which transverses the area.

Location is one of its attractive features and it is a quick bus or bike ride to Center City. The Route 15 SEPTA Trolley which travels along Girard Avenue has refurbished cars reflecting their 1940’s glory. Temple University is nearby on North Broad Street and University City is across the Spring
Garden Street Bridge. Most residents spend a ½ hour in commuting to work.

Francisville is the home of fierce activists who refuse to see the area decline any further. Through the Francisville Neighborhood Development Corporation and Concerned Citizens of Francisville they have convinced City Hall to bring in Neighborhood Transformation efforts to reduce the number blighted properties and abandoned homes.

With a largely African American population, it has experienced no change in property values during the past 5 years.

Nearby is historic Berean Institute which recently celebrated its 100 birthday and enabled students to become skilled in a trade.

Francisville is on the list of areas that is slowly gentrifying as the neighborhoods around it become more expensive to live in. Also like many other areas of Philadelphia, it’s a block-by-block situation. There are a few sections showing vast improvement with renovations, others are still riddled with abandoned lots and neglected houses. Some of the buildings have been knocked down to be replaced with new structures. This wrecking ball sweep caused a controversy in 2003 from those concerned with historic preservation.

The gentrification of the neighboring Spring Garden has given hope to the Francisville area for improvements. It still however maintains high rate of crime, especially drug related activity and theft.

As far as commuting, it’s within walking distance to the Fairmount, Spring Garden areas but any further than that a bike or public transportation would be more efficient. Francisville is conveniently located near the Broad street line and several bus routes which is a plus for the neighborhood. You can also get to the Art Museum with ease as well.

Renting or buying property again, depends on the block, however, it’s relatively cheap to live here right now but property value is likely to go up as gentrification in the area takes over.

Francisville is a neighborhood located in the North section of Philadelphia. It is bound by Fairmount Avenue to the south, Broad Street to the east, Girard Avenue to the north and Corinthian Avenue to the west. Francisville has a population of 4,500 residents and is considered one of the most ethnically diverse neighborhoods in the city.
It is fairly easy getting around Francisville using public transportation. The neighborhood is served by Broad Strret Subway stations at Fairmount and Girard as well as the SEPTA Route 15 trolley and the 33 SEPTA bus line.
Due to parts of the neighborhood being declared blighted, Francisville is one of the most affordable sections of the city to live in. In recent years, residents have made it their priority to clean up Francisville, helping the area to undergo a beautification process.
Francisville offers many attractions to the locals including The Francisville Playground at 737-39 Francis Street. The playground features two basketball courts, a spacious swimming pool, a full baseball field and a children’s play area. Francisville also has many neighborhood bars and restaurants that are worth checking out and enjoys a vibrant nightlife. If you want to live in a moderately priced neighborhood that is up-and-coming and fun, Francisville is perfect for you!