Mayor Parker’s Proposed FY27 Budget Delivers $2.2 Billion to Move Philadelphia Forward

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s Proposed FY27 Budget— “One Philly, One Future”— lays out a clear roadmap to make Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in the nation, while expanding economic opportunity for all. 

The proposal includes $2.2 billion in new, targeted investments, guided by the Administration’s Economic GPS: Growth, Prosperity, and Security, and focused on delivering results residents can see, touch, and feel in their daily lives. 

At a glance: Where investments are going 

  • $2.2 billion in total new investments  
  • $641.7 million in new operating investments over five years  
  • $1.51 billion in capital investments over six years  

These investments reflect a balanced approach—supporting immediate needs while building long-term stability and opportunity across Philadelphia. 

What exactly does the City’s budget mean for you?

Every spring, the Mayor puts forward a plan that shapes how Philadelphia invests in the programs and services that touch your life every day. 

Think about the essential services you count on: 

  • Police, fire, and emergency response 
  • Trash pickup and street maintenance 
  • Parks and recreation spaces 
  • Housing support and programs 
  • Workforce training and job opportunities 

This year’s Proposal doesn’t just maintain these services—it takes them to the next level. It includes bold, targeted investments in each of Mayor Parker’s top priorities, such as public safety, clean and green initiatives, economic opportunity, education, workforce development, housing, wellness, and more, building on the transformational investments started during the first two years of the Parker Administration. 

 

How the proposed FY27 Budget invests in Philadelphia’s future

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker’s Proposed FY27 Budget continues to deliver on a clear priority: making Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in the nation—while expanding economic opportunity for all. 

Here’s how the Proposed Plan makes targeted investments that residents can see, feel, and benefit from in their daily lives: 

Expanding Economic Mobility and Workforce Opportunities 

The Proposed Budget makes significant investments to help Philadelphians access jobs, build skills, and achieve financial stability. 

Key initiatives include: 

  • Establishing a new Economic Mobility Cabinet to coordinate strategy across City departments.  
  • Investing $15 million over five years to create 1,000 new Career Connected Learning opportunities for youth.  
  • Allocating $10 million in FY27 for workforce development programs.  
  • Providing $14 million over five years for financial counseling and empowerment services, aligned with the H.O.M.E. Initiative.  
  • Prioritizing support for small and local businesses to drive inclusive economic growth.  

Together, these efforts are designed to create clearer pathways to employment, strengthen household financial security, and grow an inclusive local economy. 

Taking action to End Street Homelessness 

The Proposed FY27 Budget makes a bold commitment to addressing homelessness with both urgency and compassion. 

The plan includes: 

  • $22 million in FY27 (and $110 million over five years) to add 1,000 new shelter beds.  
  • Expanded wraparound services to support individuals on a path to stability.  
  • Increased funding for Code Blue operations to protect vulnerable residents during extreme weather.  

These efforts are supported by a proposed increase to the Hotel Tax and are part of a broader strategy to end street homelessness in Philadelphia. 

Investing in housing through the H.O.M.E. Initiative  

Housing is central to economic mobility and neighborhood stability. The Proposed Budget continues to advance the City’s $2 billion Housing Opportunities Made Easy (H.O.M.E.) Initiative. 

Key actions include: 

  • Supporting two $400 million bond issuances.  
  • Expanding the Land Bank and launching a Proactive Rental Inspection Program.  
  • Investing in innovative strategies to increase housing supply, including:  
  • $10 million for modular housing production.  
  • A proposed 20-year tax abatement for residential conversions.  
  • The transfer of vacant school buildings for redevelopment.  

These efforts aim to increase housing supply, preserve affordability, and ensure more residents have access to safe, quality homes. 

Strengthening the City’s Wellness Ecosystem

The Proposed Budget sustains and expands Philadelphia’s coordinated response to substance use, mental health challenges, and housing instability. 

The Plan includes: 

  • $211 million in opioid settlement funding over five years.  
  • Continued operations at Riverview Wellness Village and Philly Home at Girard.  
  • Expanded housing and recovery services.  

This approach ensures residents can access the care and support they need in a more coordinated and effective system. 

Investing in quality education and Philadelphia’s future 

Education remains central to the City’s economic mobility strategy. 

The Proposed Budget includes: 

  • Expansion of PHLpreK, increasing access to early childhood education.  
  • Increased support for the Community College of Philadelphia, including dual enrollment opportunities.  
  • New, dedicated funding streams for the School District of Philadelphia.  

These investments support students at every stage—from early learning to career readiness. 

Continuing progress on public safety

The budget builds on recent progress to make Philadelphia safer. 

Key investments include: 

  • $25 million in FY27 for community-based violence prevention and grassroots organizations. 
  • $30 million in Vision Zero investments for safer streets.  
  • Continued funding for Police, Fire, and Prisons.  

These efforts reflect a balanced approach—combining prevention, enforcement, and safer infrastructure. 

Delivering cleaner, greener, and safer neighborhoods

The FY27 Budget prioritizes the everyday services residents rely on. 

These investments include: 

  • New dedicated pothole repair crews, supported by a proposed retail delivery fee.  
  • A Police Quality of Life team to address neighborhood concerns.  
  • Increased enforcement against illegal dumping.  
  • Continued investment in highway and gateway beautification.  

These are the visible improvements that directly impact quality of life in neighborhoods across the city. 

Historic investments in public transit supporting connectivity 

Public transit is essential to economic opportunity and daily life in Philadelphia. 

The Proposed Plan includes nearly $900 million for SEPTA across the Five-Year Plan and Capital Program, including: 

  • Operating and capital support.  
  • Funding for employee benefits.  
  • Continued investment in Zero Fare programs.  

These investments help ensure residents can access jobs, education, and services across the city. 

A Responsible and Forward-Looking Plan 

The FY27 Budget is grounded in strong fiscal stewardship. 

While making historic investments, the Plan: 

  • Maintains reserves to protect against economic uncertainty.  
  • Plans for the end of federal COVID-era funding.  
  • Prepares for long-term financial obligations while continuing progress on pension reform.  

This approach ensures Philadelphia can continue investing in priorities while maintaining financial stability. 

What this means for you 

The proposed FY27 Budget is designed to deliver real, tangible results for residents: 

  • More pathways to jobs and career opportunities  
  • Expanded access to housing and homelessness services  
  • Safer streets and neighborhoods  
  • Cleaner public spaces and faster response to community concerns  
  • Greater access to education, transit, and essential services 

What’s next

The FY27 Budget is currently under review by Philadelphia City Council. Residents are encouraged to follow the process, watch hearings, and participate in upcoming community engagement opportunities. 

Learn more and stay engaged at phila.gov.