Frequently Asked Questions
+ Is the KCT a for-profit or a non-profit organization?
The KCT is a 501(c)3.
+ Where are the KCT headquarters located?
The KCT sub-leases from IF Lab at 3400 J Street, Unit G12, Philadelphia, PA 19134. This is also our mailing address. Due to COVID-19 our staff are working a hybrid schedule.
+ What are the boundaries of the KCT?
The KCT has defined its working boundaries as Kensington Avenue between Lehigh Avenue and Glenwood Avenue.
+ How does the KCT define the area they call the Kensington neighborhood?
The KCT defines the Kensington neighborhood as these five census tracts in Philadelphia:
- 177.0
- 177.02
- 178
- 188
- 192
+ How do I contact KCT?
You can email us at info@kctphilly.org or you can send us a message through our Contact Us page on this site.
+ Is the KCT a land trust?
No, a community land trust typically owns the land and sells the buildings/structures to members of the community. Our model holds the land and any improvements on the land in the trust. Also, all profits gained by the KCT are reinvested back into the neighborhood.
+ What does "neighborhood controlled" mean?
It means that our governance infrastructure puts the power in the hands of the neighborhood. Our board is composed of people passionate about our work, the majority of which are residents of and small business owners in Kensington.
+ Does the KCT purchase land and buildings off of Kensington Avenue?
Not at this time.
+ What does it mean to “decommodify” real estate on Kensington Avenue?
Real estate is a commodity because it can be bought and sold. To decommodify real estate means that assets, like commercial and mixed use buildings, are removed from the capitalistic market so the asset can no longer be sold. It brings the asset into the commons to be preserved and in the case of the KCT to be governed and controlled by the neighborhood.
+ How will this impact me as a resident of the community?
The commercial corridor should be a positive hub for the neighborhood and our goal is to reactivate the corridor for neighborhood use with affordable goods and services that the neighborhood wants and needs.
+ How will this impact me as a business owner/operator in the community?
The KCT will make available for lease new and rehabbed spaces for business owners to operate from on Kensington Avenue. The KCT acknowledges the costs associated with running a business in bricks and mortar spaces and we aim to keep a low point of entry for businesses to reduce barriers to access.
+ Will I and the broader community be able to make suggestions on what is developed and what businesses/organizations are attracted?
Yes, we want to hear from you directly. If you have ideas please get in touch with us. As the KCT continues to grow we will formalize our processes for neighborhood dialogue but for now just drop us a line or give us a call.
+ Will there be any public spaces delivered as a part of this project?
At the KCT we believe in activating vacant lots until we are prepared to begin construction. So, we are looking for partners to activate that space with and some temporary use ideas so far are pollinator gardens and pop up community services. If you have others, please get in touch with us.
+ When will this project end? What is the long-term plan of this project? What will happen over time?
The KCT is built upon a model of intergenerational stewardship. This means that we believe the neighborhood should govern and control the real estate held by the KCT to protect the use and value of the real estate. Over time, the KCT will amass a significant number of assets on the commercial corridor which should allow the neighborhood to control affordability and actively work against displacement and gentrification.
+ How does the KCT benefit the neighborhood?
The KCT will be reducing the vacancies in commercial spaces on Kensington Avenue by developing quality, affordable business spaces. A reduction in blight should benefit everyone trying to do business on the avenue, both consumers and business owners.
+ How can I partner with the KCT?
We love building new mission-aligned partnerships! Contact us to spark a conversation.