Recognizing The American Institute of Architects, Philadelphia Chapter, on the occasion of relocating their operations to the historic Young, Smyth, Field Company Building at 1218 Arch Street in Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, The American Institute of Architects (AIA), Philadelphia Chapter, will be opening its new facility at the end of April 2008; and

WHEREAS, The newly renovated and restored facility will be home to the Center for Architecture, AIA Philadelphia, the Community Design Collaborative, and AIA Bookstore and Design Center; and

WHEREAS, The new non-profit Center for Architecture will provide a meeting space for public engagement on issues related to design, planning, and building of Philadelphia, as well as an exhibit gallery that will provide the public with an opportunity to see many great, new Philadelphia and regional projects; and

WHEREAS, Many of these projects will highlight Greater Philadelphia’s newest buildings and designs, as well as the area’s architectural history and culture; and

WHEREAS, The Center will offer daily tours that will promote an understanding of the history, architecture, and culture of the region; and

WHEREAS, The AIA Bookstore and Design Center, a successful retail establishment with a 30-year history in Philadelphia, will be open 360 days a year and offer books and products focused on Philadelphia, the city and region, and provide information to city visitors and AIA membership; and

WHEREAS, The AIA, Philadelphia Chapter, has been headquartered in Philadelphia for 139 years and represents nearly 1,400 member architects within four southeastern Pennsylvania counties: Philadelphia, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery, in addition to representing 300 member architecture firms and 250 affiliate companies supplying products and services to the industry; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That Council does hereby recognize The American Institute of Architects, Philadelphia Chapter, on the occasion of relocating their operations to the historic Young, Smyth, Field Company Building at 1218 Arch Street in Philadelphia.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to John Claypool, Executive Director of AIA Philadelphia as evidence of the sincere sentiments and recognition of this legislative body.

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