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- The Eastwick Bulletin: Week of October 21st
The Eastwick Bulletin: Week of October 21st
Your Weekly Community Update from the Eastwick Friends and Neighbors (EFNC)
Welcome to this week’s Eastwick Bulletin.
This issue includes a same-day public information walk about the proposed Eastwick trail, an important update on the City’s interim HESCO barrier planning, a professional opportunity to help shape Philadelphia’s food-waste diversion strategy, and neighborhood activities through early November. You will also find the first Elmwood/Eastwick Community Harvest Festival, a last-call reminder for the Bellwether District community tour, the Nature in Focus exhibition, the November 7 Nature-Based Solutions Open House, and Eastwick Regional Playground’s fall schedule.
🌟 Community Input: Proposed Eastwick Trail
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Wednesday, October 21, 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM Warbler Woods Trail, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service invites neighbors of all ages to an Information Walk about the Proposed Trail Project for the Eastwick Community. The Community Engagement Team will lead a walk through Warbler Woods Trail and share information about the proposed trail. See the current official event listing before traveling.
The City lists the related Cobbs Creek Eastwick Trail Project as being in design. The current plan calls for about 1.1 miles of paved, multi-purpose trail, 10 to 12 feet wide, connecting Island Avenue with Eastwick Regional Playground near 80th Street and the existing trail toward the refuge. The City says the project is intended to improve safe walking and biking access to recreation, school, open-space, and neighborhood destinations. Design is listed for 2025 through 2027, with construction and completion currently listed for 2028.
This is an opportunity to learn about a proposed neighborhood connection, not an announcement that construction has begun or that final plans are approved. The event page does not list a specific meeting point or registration instructions. For last-minute arrival questions, call the refuge Visitor Center at 215-365-3118.
⚠️Community Concern: Interim HESCO Barriers Face a New Design Delay
A recent WHYY report says City modeling found that the proposed temporary HESCO barriers along Cobbs Creek could shift floodwater into neighboring Delaware County. City officials told residents that the project is delayed in the design phase while they examine whether a lower barrier could reduce that effect. A lower barrier, however, would provide less protection for Eastwick homes.
According to the report, City modeling and design work are expected to continue into 2027. Construction could begin in 2028 if a viable design is identified, while the related federal funding is set to begin expiring in 2028. The City also says it is continuing to explore other measures in the Eastwick Flood Resilience Strategy, including voluntary buyouts and relocations, nature-based solutions, flood insurance options, and the real-time flood-monitoring system.
Eastwick residents have lived with flood risk and uncertainty for decades. They deserve timely answers, meaningful involvement in decisions, and effective protection for their homes, alongside solutions that safeguard neighboring communities.
For preparedness information, flood maps, alerts, insurance resources, and the monitoring map, use the City’s Eastwick resident resources.
This Saturday: 1st Annual Elmwood/Eastwick Community Harvest Festival
Saturday, October 24, 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM In front of Communications Technology High School, 8100 Lyons Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19153
The Black Farmers Co-Op, in collaboration with Elmwood and Eastwick community partners, is hosting the first annual Elmwood/Eastwick Community Harvest Festival. The community celebration will include food, music, vendors, children’s activities, health and wellness workshops, and healthy options. Learn more from the Black Farmers Co-Op.
EFNC is listed among the festival’s collaborating sponsors, alongside Black Farmer Co-Op, Sons and Daughters of Elmwood, Eastwick United, Munchie and Hammer Foundation, and Ready and Rooted. The festival flyer also includes opportunities to connect as a vendor or volunteer and to support the event.
Virtual Sound Bath Experience
Sundays, 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM EST Online via Zoom, link provided after registration
Your Healthy Mojo is offering 30-minute Virtual Sound Bath Experience sessions led by Dr. MoJo. The upcoming November sessions are November 1, 8, 22, and 29, each from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM EST. The cost is $10 per session.
Register or purchase a session through My Healthy Mojo or Your Healthy Mojo Self-Care. The registration confirmation provides the Zoom link.
Last Call: Bellwether District Community Site Tours
Friday, October 23, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM 3144 W. Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19145
The HRP Group team behind the redevelopment of The Bellwether District will lead guided community site tours this Friday. Participants can meet the project team, learn about redevelopment plans, and see the site’s transformation firsthand. Attendees will also be entered for a chance to win a signed Philadelphia Eagles jersey.
Choose a one-hour tour at 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM, or 5:00 PM. Wear comfortable, closed-toed shoes and remain with the tour guide. Personal protective equipment may be required and will be provided if needed. Register for a Bellwether District site tour. To request an accommodation or discuss accessibility needs, use the Bellwether District contact page.
Plan Ahead: Nature-Based Solutions Open House
Saturday, November 7, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19153
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum is hosting an open house on the results of the Flood Resilience Feasibility Study for the Lower Darby Creek area. The study considers nature-based solutions intended to convey, store, and infiltrate water, while improving habitat and supporting community flood resilience.
Neighbors can move through stations at their own pace, learn about next steps, and participate in a Community Voice interview. Snacks will be provided. RSVPs are encouraged but not required. For questions or to RSVP, email [email protected].
Nature in Focus 2026: Visit, View, and Vote
The Nature in Focus 2026 Photo Exhibition remains open at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard, through Sunday, November 8. The Visitor Center is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visitors can view photographs submitted by participants of all ages and cast one vote for the People’s Choice Award.
On Saturday, November 7, the public Nature in Focus reception runs from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by the awards ceremony from 11:30 AM to noon. The preceding Friends of Heinz Refuge Annual Membership Meeting is for current members and their guests. Find exhibition and reception details through Friends of Heinz Refuge.
Eastwick Regional Playground: Fall Programs Continue
Eastwick Regional Playground’s Fall 2026 schedule includes after-school activities, community pickleball, crochet, karate, pinochle, sewing, youth soccer, youth ultimate frisbee, We Walk Philly, Spoken Word Open Mic Night, and Silent Book Club. The schedule is an ongoing guide, and individual activities may have different age, registration, fee, or holiday arrangements.
Before attending a program, call 215-685-4193 or check @eastwickregionalpark on Instagram for the current schedule, participation details, and any changes.
📅 UPCOMING EVENTS
Date and time | Event | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
Wed, Oct. 21 | Information Walk about the Proposed Trail Project for the Eastwick Community | Warbler Woods Trail, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge | All-ages walk with the Community Engagement Team about the proposed Eastwick trail. Check the event page or call the Visitor Center before traveling. [1] [3] |
Thu, Oct. 22 | Bartram’s Garden Welcome Center, 5400 Lindbergh Blvd. | Fresh, chemical-free local produce from Sankofa Community Farm. EBT, cash, WIC Farmers’ Market vouchers, and Senior vouchers are accepted. [15] | |
Thu, Oct. 22 | Bartram’s Mile Trail, Bartram’s Garden | A free, easy one-hour group walk for neighbors of all ages and abilities. [16] | |
Fri, Oct. 23 | 3144 W. Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19145 | Three one-hour tours at 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 5:00 PM. Register in advance and wear closed-toed shoes. [7] | |
Sat, Oct. 24 | Eastwick Library, 2851 Island Ave. | Stories, songs, movement, and free play for children ages 2 to 5 and their caregivers. [17] | |
Sat, Oct. 24 | In front of Communications Technology High School, 8100 Lyons Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19153 | Food, music, vendors, children’s activities, health and wellness workshops, and healthy options. EFNC is a collaborating sponsor. [27] [28] | |
Sat, Oct. 24 | Eastwick Library, 2851 Island Ave. | Halloween-themed BINGO, prizes, a pumpkin cookie, and a costume bonus for preschool and school-age children. [17] | |
Sun, Oct. 25 | Tennis Court at Webster & S. 63rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19143 | Help preserve and restore open space along Cobbs Creek. Tools, gloves, and guidance are supplied. See the organizer page for registration details. [18] | |
Mon, Oct. 26 | Eastwick Library, 2851 Island Ave. | Youth ages 10 to 18 can learn about cultural hair traditions through hands-on braiding and art. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is not required. [17] | |
Thu, Oct. 29 | Bartram’s Garden Welcome Center, 5400 Lindbergh Blvd. | Weekly produce stand with cash, EBT, WIC Farmers’ Market vouchers, and Senior vouchers accepted. [19] | |
Fri, Oct. 30 | Eastwick Library, 2851 Island Ave. | School-age children ages 5 and up can learn basic crochet skills while working on a project. [17] | |
Sat, Oct. 31 | Bartram’s Garden Welcome Center, 5400 Lindbergh Blvd. | Support seasonal planting, weeding, and invasive-species removal. Capacity is limited and advance registration is required. [20] | |
Sun, Nov. 1 | Online via Zoom | A 30-minute session with Dr. MoJo. Cost: $10. Register or purchase a session through My Healthy Mojo or Your Healthy Mojo Self-Care. [29] [30] | |
Tue, Nov. 3 | Eastwick Library, 2851 Island Ave. | Art, games, comics, and more for teens and young adults. [17] | |
Wed, Nov. 4 | SWWAG Workshop: Putting the Farm to Bed to Prepare Your Winter Garden | Sankofa Community Farm at Bartram’s Garden, 5400 Lindbergh Blvd. | Learn about cover crops and overwintering greens with Ty Holmberg. Register through the organizer page. [21] |
Sat, Nov. 7 | Nature in Focus public reception and awards | John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 8601 Lindbergh Blvd. | Public reception, 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by awards from 11:30 AM to noon. The earlier annual meeting is for Friends of Heinz Refuge members and guests. [8] [24] |
Sat, Nov. 7 | Nature-Based Solutions Open House | John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 8601 Lindbergh Blvd. | Learn Flood Resilience Feasibility Study results and next steps. RSVPs are encouraged, not required: [email protected]. [11] [12] |
Check organizer pages for weather, capacity, registration, access, and last-minute changes before traveling.
💡COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Eastwick Flood Resources
Use the City’s Eastwick resident resources for flood maps, the Flood Ready Home guide, flood insurance information, alerts, and the live monitoring map.
Eastwick Library
The Eastwick Library at 2851 Island Avenue offers free programs, computers, printing, Wi-Fi, and family resources. See the Eastwick Library calendar for current listings.
Report and Track Neighborhood Concerns Use
Philly 311 to report potholes, abandoned vehicles, illegal dumping, graffiti, street-light outages, and other non-emergency concerns.
Breathe Philly
For City information about air quality, heat, and environmental-health resources, visit Breathe Philly and review the Breathe Philly program resources.
📸 SEND US YOUR PHOTOS
We love seeing Eastwick through your eyes. Send photos of neighborhood gatherings, local nature, community projects, gardens, and everyday moments that show what makes Eastwick special. Selected images may be featured in future Bulletins and EFNC social media. Please email your photo, a short caption, and photographer credit to [email protected].
🗣️ FUTURE TOPICS: WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
What would you like to see covered in a future Eastwick Bulletin? Please send local concerns, event notices, positive neighborhood news, and resource suggestions to [email protected]. Your input helps EFNC keep this newsletter relevant, practical, and community-centered.
🤝 ABOUT EFNC AND JOIN OUR BOARD
Eastwick Friends & Neighbors Coalition Inc. is a resident-led nonprofit advancing education, advocacy, and environmental preservation to improve quality of life, protect public health, and build long-term community resilience. We are seeking community-minded Board members with experience or interest in social media, event planning, computer skills, grant writing, communications, and community outreach. To learn more about EFNC or express interest in serving, visit eastwickfnc.org.
Help keep Eastwick informed and connected. Share this Bulletin with a neighbor, invite others to subscribe, and encourage them to add their voices to the conversations shaping our community’s future.
Until next time,
The EFNC Team