Drexel, Brandywine Realty join forces to create 'Schuylkill Yards'

UNIVERSITY CITY (WPVI) -- During the next 20 years, the area around 30th Street Station will reflect an innovation neighborhood called "Schuylkill Yards."

"All that undeveloped property, creating a new neighborhood, and then linking into a transportation hub," said John Fry, Drexel University President. "It's going to be a very, very good place to live and to work."

Drexel University and Brandywine Realty are pouring $3.5 billion into the 14-acre development.

Renderings of the tech hub reveal retail, residential, research labs and businesses.

There's even designated spaces for parks.

Councilwoman Jannie L. Blackwell calls the plans a game-changer.

"Many parts of University City don't need to be rejuvenated, but they make the area more user friendly," said Blackwell. "You might think you're in Center City West, but this is West Philadelphia."

"They're building over a space that's not even being used right now, definitely will become a more attractive campus," said Ryan Siwinski, student.

There are some concerns, though.

"Open space I feel like could be either bad or good, just people hanging around late nights," said Lynn Gotuoco, student. "I know right now noise is an issue in this area, and I can't study at my apartment, hence I'm going to the library."

"Do I think the money could be going somewhere better? Yes and no," said Mark Albini, student. "It's just kind of thinking about the future, and you gotta always have that mindset about what's next and how to adapt."

The project is expected to create 10,000 construction jobs, and draw 15,000 employees and residents.