Philadelphia Morning Briefing
← Today's Briefing Disclaimer
Light
Commute · Monday, July 13, 2026
An easy commute day on paper, but stay hydrated — it's already 70°F and sunny at 84% humidity with dangerous heat building all week.
Philadelphia News
Budget
Philadelphia hits $100M windfall as small businesses push for tax relief
Philadelphia is sitting on a surprise $100 million budget surplus, even as small business owners are pleading with the city for relief from the Business Income and Receipts Tax. Mayor Parker and City Council are now facing pressure to use the windfall to ease the tax burden on sole proprietors and small operators.
Billy Penn Read more →
Politics
Thousands of West Philly tenants face displacement as city weighs affordable housing rescue
About 925 affordable rental units in West Philadelphia are at risk of being sold to outside buyers after the city missed its exclusive window to bid on the properties. Thousands of tenants remain in limbo as officials consider whether and how to intervene to keep the homes affordable.
WHYY Read more →
Public Safety
Philadelphia plans to renew deal with controversial trash incinerator company
The city is moving to renew its contract with Reworld, which operates a trash-burning facility in nearby Chester that has been linked to unhealthy air pollution in surrounding communities. Critics have long opposed the arrangement, and the renewal is expected to reignite debate over environmental justice in the region.
WHYY Read more →
Commute & Roads — 2 disruptions today
Roads are clear today with no major closures, though several bus routes are operating on detours — check with the transit authority for your specific line.
Multiple bus routes on detour — details limited
Routes 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 16, 17, 18, T1, and G1 are all listed as operating on detours today, but specific locations and reasons have not been published. Bus riders on any of these routes should check the transit authority's app or website for real-time updates before leaving home.
🚶 Philadelphia Check transit authority for updates
Extreme Heat Watch — dangerous conditions possible this week
A severe Extreme Heat Watch is in effect for the greater Philadelphia region, with heat index values potentially reaching 108°F. If you're walking, cycling, or waiting at a bus stop, plan for shade and water — conditions will be dangerous during peak afternoon hours.
🚶 🚲 Philadelphia This week
🗞️ Get Philadelphia's morning briefing in your inbox