The Delaware Riverkeeper Network

Celebrating Our Ongoing Partnership

June 05, 2025

Dear Eastwick Friend,

As we step into a new season of community action and environmental stewardship, we're proud to bring you an inspiring story of partnership and progress. This edition of our newsletter celebrates the incredible collaboration between the Delaware Riverkeeper Network (DRN) and the Eastwick Friends & Neighbors Coalition (EFNC). Together, we've worked tirelessly to protect Eastwick's floodplain, amplify our community's voice, and ensure that development respects both people and the environment.

In this issue, you'll discover how DRN has provided critical support—both technical and moral—in our ongoing fight for environmental justice. We hope this story of partnership and preservation reminds you that together, we can create lasting change and build a more resilient Eastwick for generations to come.

Happy reading!

About the Delaware Riverkeeper Network

The Delaware Riverkeeper Network (DRN) has been a vital part of EFNC’s mission since the very beginning. As one of our original partners, DRN has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us in the fight to protect Eastwick’s natural spaces and ensure that development decisions prioritize people and the environment.

Founded in 1988, DRN is a nonprofit environmental organization that advocates for the protection and restoration of the Delaware River, its tributaries, and surrounding ecosystems. They work to:

  • Restore and protect rivers and habitats

  • Promote environmental justice

  • Empower communities to advocate for sustainable, equitable development

Their efforts extend across four states—Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York—making them a powerful force for river and community health.

“The Delaware Riverkeeper Network stands up for the river and the communities who depend on it, fighting to ensure every voice is heard in environmental decision-making.”

🤝 Key Highlights of Our Partnership

  • Korman Residential Battle:
    Together, we fought for five years to stop the proposed 722-unit apartment project on flood-prone land.

  • Clearview Landfill Capping:
    DRN provided technical support to ensure community health and environmental safety.

  • PHL West Cargo Expansion:
    Opposed the airport’s cargo expansion plans, highlighting the environmental and community impact.
    ➡️ Read more from DRN’s perspective

  • Army Corps Flood Control Levee Project:
    Collaborated to scrutinize the implications of flood control measures on the Eastwick community.

🌍 A Deeper Commitment to Justice

❝

Working with Eastwick residents has brought DRN a greater awareness and sensitivity to social and environmental justice issues.

Our partnership has fostered a shared commitment to protect Eastwick. DRN’s work with Eastwick residents has opened their eyes to the struggles and determination of our neighbors, and together, we stand for environmental and social justice.

🌿 A Success Story in the Making

One of the achievements of this partnership is the work being done to preserve the 128-acre parcel of floodplain. The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge’s is considering working with DRN as part of their nature-based solutions to Eastwick’s flooding. City officials are tentatively setting a meeting on July 9th to discuss their position on the subject parcel.

“Without DRN’s partnership and EFNC’s tireless advocacy, those lands would be paved over today.”

🌟 Learn More About DRN

Explore DRN’s broader mission and work:
➡️ Visit the Delaware Riverkeeper Network’s website

Connect with them on LinkedIn:
➡️ DRN LinkedIn

📣 Community Announcements

Join us for Eastwick Community Day on June 7th 📆 

On Saturday, June 7th, 2025 the Office of Sustainability will be hosting the third annual Eastwick Community Day at the Eastwick Regional Playground located at S. 80th Street and Mars Place from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled for Saturday, June 14th. Throughout the Eastwick: From Recovery to Resilience initiative, OOS has held a series of virtual, hybrid, and in person meetings to provide information on flood mitigation, neighborhood and quality of life updates, and to listen to resident’s concerns regarding their neighborhood. This day will be an opportunity for residents to have conversations that normally occur in meetings in a face-to-face setting and enjoy games and activities for all ages. Registration can be found by visiting bit.ly/ECD2025. Registration is not required but is very helpful to the Office of Sustainability!

There is an open call for volunteers for this event. Volunteer activities include tasks such as: sitting at the sign in table, youth arts and crafts, and helping with the picnic lunch. Click here to add your name to the volunteer sign up.

Until next time,

The EFNC team