City Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr. has proposed a zoning bill aimed at regulating the future of the Academy of Natural Sciences museum, which is set to close following Drexel University’s announcement. Young’s legislation would restrict the redevelopment options for the property by limiting it to specific uses like hospitals, government facilities, libraries, and cultural exhibits, while banning residential and commercial developments.
Currently zoned for multifamily residential development, the bill aims to align the zoning with the museum’s cultural and civic history. Young emphasized that the legislation is designed to ensure community input on the site’s usage, as it has served as a cultural hub for centuries. If the bill passes, it will complicate any future attempts to repurpose the property, requiring developers to obtain variances from the Philadelphia Zoning Board of Adjustment.
The Academy, founded in 1812, is the oldest institution of its kind in the U.S. Its unexpected closure has sparked public outcry and protests. Young, along with other council members, has pledged to advocate for the museum, highlighting its significance in civic and cultural education.
The proposed bill is expected to gain support within the Council due to the practice of “councilmanic prerogative,” whereby district members carry considerable influence over land-use decisions. For the bill to become law, it will need initial approval from the Committee on Rules and subsequently from the full Council before reaching Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s desk. If enacted, the bill would take immediate effect.
Current discussions indicate that while no final decisions have been made regarding the future of the museum’s collections or building, there are concerns that Drexel aims to sell the property after relocating the collection. Young and city officials continue to engage with the community to rally support against the closure, advocating for the museum’s historical significance and educational contributions.
