Parker proposes budget focusing on cleaning and greening

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has proposed a new budget focusing on cleaning and greening the city. Key initiatives include expanding twice-weekly trash pickup to North Philly, improving HVAC systems in libraries, and adding planters to commercial areas. The budget allocates nearly $15 million for "Clean & Green" projects, a decrease from last year's $36 million. It aims to enhance tree pruning, park maintenance, and establish an anti-litter task force, while continuing previous initiatives. Parker's plan also includes significant investments in infrastructure, such as $122 million for ADA-compliant curb cuts and $28 million for electric vehicle charging stations. The budget will be negotiated by City Council before the new fiscal year starts on July 1.