January 10: Pothole problems | Crude oil rail safety questioned | Coast Guard breaks ice | Free Library branch closes | East Falls dog park | Election info PSA

Good morning and happy Friday, Eyes on the Street!

Temperature swings like we had this week, combined with plenty of rain and snow have caused an increase in potholes much earlier than in a typical year. Until spring, the potholes can only be fixed temporarily because asphalt plants close in the cold weather.

The state’s House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee is considering a hearing on the safety of crude oil rail shipments, which are on the rise in Southeastern Pennsylvania. 

Upriver, the Coast Guard is sending a cutter to break up the ice jam near Trenton. This is a preventive measure since if the jam suddenly bursts on its own it could cause flash flooding downstream. 

The Free Library branch at Broad and Morris closed last month to make way for a new Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia wellness complex. The library and adjacent rec center will be torn down, but the new CHOP facility will include a library and rec center next to a refurbished playground. 

The East Falls Dog Park Committee will pitch its proposal for a dog park at an East Falls Community Council general membership meeting Monday. This isn’t the first time residents have pushed for a dog park in the neighborhood, but past efforts stalled when they faced obstacles in securing a location. 

Philebrity reminds us that Committee of Seventy has info on this year’s gubernatorial race – everything from background on Corbett and the cast of Democratic candidates to regular election updates. Stay tuned!

The Buzz is Eyes on the Street’s morning news digest. Have a tip? Send it along.
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