The Cobbs Creek Watershed Coalition works to protect not only Cobbs Creek itself, but also the neighborhoods that surround it. One issue that has come up again and again is the deteriorating condition of the Elmwood Park Plaza parking lot at 70th and Elmwood Avenue (6930 Elmwood Avenue). Despite being a regular topic at community meetings and civic discussions, the problems in this area remain unresolved, raising both safety and environmental concerns for residents.

Neighbors report that the parking lot has become a site for illegal auto repair activity, creating a range of hazards. According to Philadelphia city code, public parking lots are intended for one purpose: parking cars. Performing auto repairs in these spaces is not only illegal, it’s dangerous. In Elmwood Park Plaza, it’s common to see cars being serviced openly, with tools, oil containers, and car parts scattered around the lot.

This activity contributes to unsafe conditions for pedestrians and shoppers. Large piles of empty motor oil containers, spilled fluids, and various auto-related waste are often found on-site. These materials create fire hazards and pose slipping risks, especially in wet or icy weather. Beyond the immediate safety issues, this kind of pollution can also harm the local watershed. Runoff from oil, antifreeze, and other contaminants can make its way into storm drains and eventually reach Cobbs Creek.

The Cobbs Creek Watershed Coalition recognizes that protecting the watershed also means protecting the health, safety, and quality of life in nearby communities like Elmwood. That’s why we’re encouraging residents to speak up and report what they see.

If you’d like to take action, here’s how:

Report Code Violations to the Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I):
South District Code Enforcement Unit
2401 Walnut St., Suite 502, Philadelphia, PA 19103
📞 (215) 685-1510

You don’t need to be an expert—just call and say that you use Elmwood Park Plaza and the volume of auto repair activity is creating unsafe and unsanitary conditions.

Let Your Councilmember Know:
Council President Kenyatta Johnson’s office wants to hear from you, especially if you’ve reported this issue to L&I.
📞 (215) 686-3412 or (215) 686-3413

Abandoned Vehicles Are a Nuisance:
Unregistered or abandoned cars in the lot should be reported to the Philadelphia Parking Authority:
📞 (215) 683-9773
🌐 philapark.org/nuisance

For additional questions or support, contact Russell Zerbo at Clean Air Council:
📧 rzerbo@cleanair.org
📞 (215) 567-4004 x130

By reporting these ongoing issues, you’re helping to improve public safety, protect the environment, and ensure that all of Southwest Philadelphia including the neighborhoods around Cobbs Creek remains a healthy and thriving place to live.