How Classic Towns Works

Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia is a collaborative and coordinated effort that works on many levels to strengthen each community individually and the region in its entirety.


Locally, DVRPC works with each Classic Town to understand its marketing and community development needs.

Classic Towns also serves to educate the finance industry, business community, community development professionals, and the general public about the amenities and investment opportunities that can be found in these communities.

At the regional level, it encourages municipalities to work together and support county, regional, and state economic development initiatives.

DVRPC has identified the following guiding principles as the framework to improve and promote older communities and neighborhoods throughout the Greater Philadelphia region:

Identify niche markets.
The region's traditional neighborhoods and older towns are home to a wide range of amenities that are appealing to many homebuyers and business owners. Most Classic Towns are accessible by public transportation, pedestrian-friendly, and offer diverse and affordable housing options, in addition to established downtown destinations. These special places are unique, attractive, exciting, and welcoming to residents and visitors. Advertising these communities and their amenities makes these individual towns and Greater Philadelphia more attractive places in which to live, work, play, visit, or ultimately move.

Create new partnerships.
Classic Towns of Greater Philadelphia is always looking for new partners to jointly work in promoting the opportunities in Greater Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs.

If you are interested in joining this initiative as a partner, please email classictowns [at] dvrpc [dot] org or call 215-592-1800.

Think regionally. Act locally.
The Greater Philadelphia region is stronger and more competitive when communities and neighborhoods work together. Regional cooperation strengthens local initiatives, enhances employment opportunities, and allows the region to retain its skilled and educated residents.