West Chester Weekly News Roundup: July 25, 2025

The easiest way to be in the know.

Upgrade | Hello podcast

It’s Friday, July 25, 2025:  What would downtown West Chester look like if it extended past Matlack St and encompassed the industrial parcels down E. Gay and Market Streets? Would the walk along High St. be less trash-ridden if the Business District took over the blocks between Miner and Price St.? As it looks for another five-year authorization, Downtown West Chester wants to bring its proven recipe of events, marketing, and beautification to more areas of the Borough, but not all businesses there believe that’s what they need. 

Also, West Chester shares its plans to mitigate traffic issues in its northeast quadrant, West Goshen unveils its new fleet of solar panels, two new (free) family-friendly events, and West Chester’s retail scene is finally getting a little respect.  Plus, an update on last weekend’s fire at Peirce Middle School.

Ok, who’s ready? Let’s catch up.

Downtown West Chester Expansion Plan

The reauthorization of West Chester’s Business Improvement District is now underway, and with it comes a well-honed strategy of events, social media marketing, and downtown beautification. This time, however, they hope to bring that magic mix to 85 new parcels, mainly along E. Gay, E. Market, and S. High Streets.

“Ever since I started in this organization, I’ve heard from property owners, from individual businesses outside the district, and former members of Borough Council, ‘Why aren’t we helping this business or this area of town?’”

The short answer is they weren’t members of the BID.

Design Series: Make the Most of the Home You Love

If you’re remodeling a bath, don’t be surprised if we try to convince you to include a heated floor in your plans. There’s just nothing like stepping onto a warm tile floor, especially on a chilly morning.

Here at Spring Creek Design, we’re installing more radiant heating systems in the baths we remodel because, over time, they’re more efficient and more reliable than forced air heating. And, by eliminating the need bulky radiators, radiant heat opens up space for creative design solutions.

But the biggest reason is because radiant floor heat just feels so good. Heated floors retain warmth longer than forced air, continuing to radiate from the floor upward. Rooms feel less drafty and cozier, especially on cold, damp days.

Ready to make the most of the home you love? Give us a call at 610-273-9194 to get on our schedule before those cold days arrive!

The Warnings.

Welcome to the club. According to new data analysis by Point2Homes, the traditional vista of suburban life, a row of single family homes encased by white picket fences, may be on the decline. The national rental home listing platform reviewed census data for suburbs with at least 10,000 residents and found of the 1,500 they reviewed 203 or 13.5 percent now have more renters than homeowners. This includes King of Prussia and 14 other suburbs that just switched to majority renter over the last five years. 

While West Chester was not one of them, the Borough has been majority renter for a while now, the ratio of homeowners to renters continues to dip. In 2018, 62 percent of residents were renters. Now that number is 65 percent, and it doesn’t include any of the future apartment complexes approved for construction. 

The cost of in-state higher education is going up. This week, for the first time in seven years, the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education voted to raise tuition rates for in-state students. Beginning this fall, tuition for the 10 PASSHE schools, of which West Chester University is one, will increase $278 to $7,994 a year. Note: PASSHE did request the shortfall from the state. The state budget approved last week does include the needed $40.3 million in additional funding but it is unclear if the increase will make it through the full budget process. If it does, the increase will be rescinded and excess payments returned,  likely by rebate. Tuition bills are expected to begin mailing next week.  

Scam calls on the rise. West Goshen Police have reported a rise in spam calls recently. As the scams get more sophisticated, it’s important to know what to look for. Scroll for a list of scams WGPD has been tracking. 

Rape charges dropped. This week, the Chester County District Attorney’s Office withdrew rape charges filed against a former West Chester University student. According to a story on the case this week in the Daily Local, the DA stated in their withdrawal motion that they did not believe that they could “prove beyond a reasonable doubt that there was a lack of consent in the case.” No other details for the withdrawal were given. You can read the full story here. 

Coyote spotted in East Bradford. Likely an Eastern Coyote, a resident caught the animal on camera around 7 p.m. A family of coyotes has previously been spotted in Westtown.  

You may want to go around. PennDOT is reporting roadwork will continue on U.S. 322 (High St.) next week. Crews will be out Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the area between Miner St. and Norfolk Ave. Expect delays as a lane closure with flagging is scheduled. 

The Accolades.

A young, wealthy French aristocrat defies his king to join a rag-tag group of outsiders bent on freedom. Embracing a motto of “Cur Non” (or “Why Not?”), he turns his back on what surely would have been a life of privilege in Paris, buys himself a ship, sails to the New World, and joins up with the Continental Army under Gen. George Washington. 

He sees his first action at the Battle of Brandywine, where, despite being wounded, he impresses his general so much that he is rewarded with his own division (and a winter at Valley Forge.) He later coaxes thousands of his fellow countrymen to join the war, helping to secure its victory.  

This mysterious aristocrat? Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, otherwise known as the Marquis de Lafayette. I can’t believe more movies haven’t been made about this guy? 

When Lafayette returns to the United States for the last time in 1824, he is a hero of both the American and French Revolutions. He is a rock star with a reputation for fighting for the everyman. His return, marking the 50th anniversary of the end of the Revolutionary War, is triumphant. During his 13-month tour, he hits all 24 states (1824 remember), leads parades, dances at balls, and toasts victory at grand gala events. 

Well, now, 200 years after that first victory lap, America is ready to welcome him again, in spirit anyway, including right here in West Chester. 

“We are nearing the end,” West Chester Historic Commission Chair Tom Walsh tells me of the year-plus celebration that will end in October in Rozay, France. The crowds on Saturday may not be what they were in 1825, when 10,000 people reportedly gathered, but we are ready.

“Yes, we have a Lafayette,” Tom tells me. He will be played by Jean Seydoux of East Bradford, and just like he did 200 years ago Saturday, he will be marching down the town streets, toasting success at a lavish (mock) dinner celebration, and staying the night in a room overlooking the corner of Church and Gay Streets. 

“If you like history, it should be fun,” says Tom, noting, “there won’t be another event like this for 50 years.” 

The “Walk with Lafayette” begins at noon at 225 N. High St. Participants will follow the procession to the spot on E. Lafayette St. where Lafayette greeted West Chester’s troops. Embody your best Revolutionary War soldier and shake hands with the General if you like. Note that in the case of rain, the event will move to Borough Hall and begin at 1 p.m.

Then at 3 p.m. there will be a “Faux Dinner” held in the Marquis’ honor in Council Chambers at Borough Hall. Since no food is allowed, the toasting will be pretend, but the music, provided by Lenape Brass, will be real. This is a first-come, faux-served event.       

Other things we are celebrating this week:

The dark horse. Shout out to West Chester’s Drk Mttr on E. Gay St. on being named a Philadelphia Magazine’s Best of Philly 2025 winner.  Not surprisingly, the all black boutique won “Best All Black Vintage.” With scores like a tags-on Alexander McQueen bandage dress, it may yet be the best kept secret in vintage fashion. “It has been a privilege to share my passion with everyone who walks through these doors and the feeling of community we’re creating here fills my heart more than I could have ever imagined,” owner Courtney McGee shared on Instagram this week.   

Courtney was joined in Philadelphia’Magazine’s glossy pages by fellow downtown retailer Jawn Supply, which was named best place for throwback sports gear. Can’t argue with that. Also, locally, FarmerJawn’s farmstand jaunt for Philadelphia’s city kids, was named the area’s “Best Field Trip,” Sunset Valley Farm received, “Best Class of Future Equestrians,”  and West Chester’s Robby Kedra’s Allen Paca Knitwear took home best hat and socks. Rosedale Ave.’s recently reimagined Bookhouse Hotel at Faunbrook left the reviewers dreaming of a weekend of reading, and took home “Best Hotel Theme.” 

Congratulations to all the local winners! It is nice to see some non-restaurant light shine through. 

Battling to the end. Last week, we shouted out the West Side Little League 13U Intermediate team. After winning the state tournament in dramatic fashion, they rebounded to nab the first game of the East regional. Unfortunately, the rest of the weekend would prove to be a downer with two losses in two days and the end of a magical run. Still, it’s a run to be proud of - undefeated in the District 28 tournament, undefeated in the District 7 tournament, 5 and 1 in the state tournament, 1 and 2 in the regional tournament, and countless compliments.    

“While their stats are extremely impressive, what is most commendable is the sportsmanship and respect they displayed throughout the tournament season,” the team shared on Instagram this week. Kudos, to that. FYI here’s the roster list - if you want to congratulate any of the members personally.  

Bringing the bling. Kevin di Girolamo, Assistant to SWOOP, and a member of the Philadelphia Eagle’s Entertainment team was hanging at Bier Haul this weekend sporting a shiny new accessory, his 2025 Superbowl ring. The flashy  rings, which feature extendable wings, were presented to the team at a ceremony on Friday night.  

Hello.

Goodbye.

Pay it Forward.

For the good of the ground. Did you know that one of the most important creatures in modern science is smaller than the dot under the question mark at the end of this sentence? And a worm? Me neither, but I can claim ignorance no longer. 

Next month, West Chester University Associate Biology Professor Jessica Sowa is launching the first-ever WormCon, a day of science discovery and deep questions geared towards kids and their families. Worms, as it turns out, have uses far beyond fish bait. They are used in a lot of different kinds of research, from studying DNA and genetics to learning how the brain works to developing new medicines. 

I caught up with Dr. Sowa on her fun new project that will have us all looking at this ground dweller with a little more respect.  

HWC: In a sea of summer camps and programs, this one certainly stands out. What inspired WormCon? 

Dr. Sowa: WormCon grew out of our Nematode Hunters program, which brings together 3rd and 4^th grade classes and WCU undergrads to collect wild nematodes, a type of roundworm. After becoming expert nematode hunters, many students and families wanted to know more about how nematode worms are used by scientists.  We thought, who better to answer those questions than the scientists who do that work -  and WormCon was born. 

HWC: What ages is the program geared towards?

Dr. Sowa: Our goal is to have something for everyone, from preschoolers to adults! All of the arts and crafts, hands-on science activities, games, and scientist meet and greets are geared to be fun for the whole family to do together. 

HWC: What do you hope kids will get out of the experience? 

Dr. Sowa: We hope that kids (and parents!) will learn something new about worms, but also about how many big discoveries in science and medicine come from work using unexpected creatures like worms. And we hope that they will enjoy the chance to talk one-on-one with the scientists and ask all the questions they can think of!

HWC: Should kids (and parents) be prepared to get their hands dirty? Please, say yes. 

Dr. Sowa. There will be live worms that kids can work with, but most of our worms are microscopic - and we will also provide gloves. 

Thanks, Dr. Sowa!

WormCon is taking place on Aug. 9. Activities start at 11 a.m. and runs through 4 p.m.. Parents should be prepared to stay and get in there right along with their kiddos. This is a free event, but registration is required. Can’t make it this year? No, worries, Dr. Sowa is already ready to do it again. 

“We hope to make it an annual event every August, so this year's attendees will help us start the tradition,’ she said.   

Other ways to give back this week: 

Don’t eat alone. Pass it on. This summer, West Chester Area Senior Center is continuing its free lunch program. All seniors age 60 and over are eligible for a free nutritious lunch served daily around noon. Meals are thoughtfully designed to support senior health—including those managing heart disease or diabetes. Sound good to you? Reserve your place at least three days in advance at 610-431-4242 or email Olivia Force at [email protected]. Not yet 60? You’re still welcome there is just a $5.70 charge. 

Go back-to-school shopping. This on anyone else’s weekend to do list? Or maybe you’re just feeling nostalgic for those days of backpacks and spiral notebooks? Well, if so, maybe add a few items to this week’s shopping list and help a local family get back-to-school ready? The Friends Association, whose important work we highlighted last week, is hosting their annual Back-to-School drive. They are collecting new backpacks, water bottles, wired headphones, and gift cards to ensure every child feels ready and excited for the year ahead. You can drop off items at their 113 W. Chestnut location or save the trip and order off their Amazon Wish List and have them shipped directly. 

Grab your 2026 calendar now. West Chester Firefighters have a new calendar and you can grab your copy at Saturday’s First West Chester Fire Company Open House. The Bradford Avenue firehouse will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come out see the equipment, meet the firefighters, and support our all volunteer force. 

West Chester grant program open through July 31. Last chance! Know of a local nonprofit organization in need of a little extra cash to tackle a special project? The West Chester Downtown Foundation might be able to help. Each year, the WCDF gives out roughly a dozen grants valued up to $2500 to local organizations working to make a positive impact in and around the Borough. That sound like something you do? Apply here. 

The Freakin’ Weekend.

What are you up to this weekend? We are going back to school shopping. I am not sure I am ready to embrace that back to school feeling just yet but I have a feeling the last few weeks of summer are going to go quickly! 

If you are around this weekend, Turks Head Wines has a new summer menu that features both a sweet corn risotto and a peach and tomato panzanella. Pour me a glass of red, and ask me to stay awhile. Then on Saturday, Uptown is hosting a Family Summer Fun Day from 12 to 3 p.m. The event is free and includes water balloons, face painting, glitter tattoos, live Disney songs and pretty much everything your six-year-old could want. (BTW Uptown fans and holiday planners, they are currently running a BOGO half off the ticket price special for most holiday shows.) Then head to Hop Fidelity for another free show -. Airplane Mode Funk (great band name) is rumored to be playing a live concert at the Market St. record store. Not sure when that starts. So, maybe just head over, grab a beer and wait? Also, on Saturday, The Corner Art Collective is hosting one of its popular one-day art shows. This is a group show event featuring a variety of artistic styles. Doors open at 3 p.m.

Finally, don’t forget the 76th annual Goshen Country Fair starts on Monday. We will be there for the amusement rides, farm animals, and apple cider donuts. Not necessarily in that order.

Thank you to Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center, this week’s Hello West Chester Community Sponsor. As the premier destination for the performing arts in the borough, Uptown enriches West Chester’s Historic District with vibrant cultural experiences. From live theater, music, and dance to film and education, Uptown is at the heart of it all, bringing the community together through the arts.

View a list of all our amazing Community Sponsors here.

Business leaders: Want exclusive access to this amazing community? Of course, you do. There are only three spots an issue so each one gets a lot of attention, and from what I hear, responses. Placements are filled first come- first served. Send me an email if you are interested.

Mark Your Calendars:

• July 26 - West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• July 26 - Yoga in the Park, Marshall Square Park, 10:15 a.m. Bring a mat, water, and sunscreen. Registration encouraged, but walk-ins welcome. Class: $15. FYI if you’re registering it's listed under “Be Rooted.”

• July 26 - Family Summer Fun Day, Uptown Theater, 12 - 3 p.m. Water balloons, arts and crafts, face painting and more. This is a free event.

  July 26 - Take a Walk with Lafayette, 225 N. High St, 2 p.m. Follow the General from just outside the Chester County History Center to Lafayette St. Walk ends at Marshall Square Park.

  July 26 - Lafayette Faux Dinner, Borough Hall, 3 - 4:30 p.m. Toast the Marquis while enjoying live music by Lenape Brass.

  July 26 - Group Show, The Corner Art Collective (341 S. Matlack St.) 3 - 9 p.m. This is an all styles show. 

• July 26 - Phillies vs. Yankees Bus Trip, West Goshen Township Municipal Complex, 9 a.m. Travel to the Bronx to catch the National League Eastern Division champion Philadelphia Phillies take on the American League Eastern Division champion New York Yankees. $119 per person includes round-trip motorcoach transportation, a ticket to the game, and driver tip.

• July 27 - West Chester Railroad - Picnic Special, 230 E. Market St. 12 p.m. 90 minute train ride with a mid-trip stop at the Glen Mills station. Picnic optional. Pack a lunch. Tickets: $25/adults; $20/kids

• July 27 - Summer Concert Series - A Capella Pops, West Goshen Community Park, 6:30 p.m. Concert is free but a dry good donation for the West Chester Food Cupboard is encouraged.

• July 28 - Aug. 2 - Goshen Country Fair, Goshen Fire Company, 1320 Park Ave., Fair opens 6 p.m. weekdays, 5 p.m. on Saturday. Enjoy games of chance, live music, amusement rides and delicious food.

• July 30 - West Chester Taps, downtown, 5 - 7 p.m. Participating locations offer a select list of $5 beers, $6 wines, and $7 cocktails, in addition to appetizer specials. 

• July 31 - Friends of Marshall Square Park Concert Series: Chico’s Vibe, Marshall Square Park, Food trucks onsite at 5 p.m. Bands begin at 6:30 p.m. Plus, face painting and balloon artists!

• Aug. 1 - First Friday, Downtown West Chester, free metered parking after 5 p.m.

• Aug. 1 - Puccini to Phantom: A Night to Remember, Chester County History Center, 7 p.m.  Acclaimed Metropolitan Opera tenor Richard Troxell will headline the event, accompanied by celebrated pianist Laura Ward and a stunning lineup of SALT’s Mainstage stars. Tickets: $25/general admission, $75 event sponsor. All proceeds go to support SALT Performing Arts.

• Aug. 2 - West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Aug. 2 - Special Exhibit: Over the Horizon, American Helicopter Museum, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets required.

• Aug. 2 - Yoga in the Park, Marshall Square Park, 10:15 a.m. Bring a mat, water, and sunscreen. Registration encouraged, but walk-ins welcome. Class: $15. FYI if you’re registering it's listed under “Be Rooted.”

• Aug. 3 - West Chester Railroad - Picnic Special, 230 E. Market St. 12 p.m. 90 minute train ride with a mid-trip stop at the Glen Mills station. Picnic optional. Pack a lunch. Tickets: $25/adults; $20/kids

• Aug. 4 - $5 Monday Night Movie: Beauty and the Beast, Uptown Theater, 7 p.m. Include complimentary popcorn

• Aug. 5 - Night Out Against Crime/Touch a Truck, Henderson High School, 6 - 9 p.m.

Reader tip: If you have trouble with these emails going to spam or promotions, reply to this email. Nothing particular, even a random letter will do, but that should keep them coming to the inbox.

That’s it. Stay safe, stay happy, and thanks to everyone who helped make this week’s issue possible. I’ll see you next week!

Hello, West Chester Community Sponsors