The Renaissance of Packer Park
By Dorette Rota Jackson
In the late 1950's, Lud Capozzi looked out at the small farms that dotted the land south of Packer Avenue and wondered what the area would look like if he were to build 1,200 state-of-the-art brick homes, complete with air-light kitchens, sunken living rooms, and an amenity that most South Philadelphians could only dream of - a garage!
What began as a vision of one forward-thinking young realtor resulted in the largest community development in the history of South Philadelphia - a dream he shared with anyone who could afford the hefty price of Packer Park living - $11,500!
More than 40 years later, Packer Park is making its way back into Philadelphia's history books with the development of 27 acres at The Reserve at Packer Park, former site of the Naval Homes. Spearheading that development is another Capozzi - Barbara - who is following in her father's footsteps, revitalizing the dream that originally attracted residents to this tree-lined enclave of patios and posterity.
Philadelphia Row Home sat down with Barbara Capozzi, Esquire, to talk about her project, her commitment to the community, and her passion for the profession that keeps her moving forward at a seriously assertive pace.
Why did you go into Real Estate?
It's in my genes. From the time I was very little, my father took me to Open Houses. When we went on vacation, we went to Open Houses. Real Estate is definitely my comfort zone. I married a man who is interested in real estate. He's a builder. I guess you can say I'm like Scarlet O'Hara - attracted to the earth.
What keeps you in the business?
Real Estate is more than a house. It's a lifestyle. It's a tradition. There's history in everything about a neighborhood. Even in the trees. It' very important to me to preserve what's most valuable to people who live in a community - helping them maintain the character of their neighborhoods.
When did this new project begin?
We started the demolition of the old Navy Homes in March 2003 - my 50th birthday. Mayor John Street's opening remarks to the crowd were, "I know you think we're here to start the demo of these homes, but we're not. We're here to sing happy birthday to Barbara Capozzi." I really got a kick out of that. It was totally unexpected.
Why is this project so important to you?
I just want to finish what my father started. I call it a Renaissance of the Naval Home community. There were 400 military homes built on 27 acres of ground. They're being replaced by 230 beautiful homes in a space that could have held 1,000 units. It makes me proud to know we've expanded the community without increasing the population density of the neighborhood.
What attracted the developer to the Naval Home site?
The housing was so close to a beautiful neighborhood. When Westrum Development - the developer approved by the community - embarked on this project, we wanted to maintain the open space and character of the existing community. In addition to the 230 customized homes that we're building on the original 27 acres of land, Westrum is building 100 condominiums and 100 bi-level townhomes in an additional 10 acres of space. This project is bigger than any development in this area since Packer Park and has increased the value of the neighborhood real estate by $50,000 per home.
What is your role in the development?
I am the exclusive broker for The Reserve at Packer Park, which encompasses the custom homes, luxury condos and exquisite bi-level townhomes, for which plan and pricing will be available in the fall.
"It's very important to me to preserve what's most valuable to people who live in a community." |
Your community involvement on behalf of Packer Park is well known. What other projects have been keeping you busy?
I've been president of the Packer Park Civic Association since 1994, a post that I never take for granted as both a resident and activist on behalf of this community. I also represent Packer Park on a seven-member Board of the Sports Complex Special Services District, negotiating the details of the Stadium Complex expansion - lobbying the City to improve and protect the neighborhoods surrounding the arenas.
I am a founding Board Member of the Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School; a member of the Citizens Crime Commission's Board of Directors; a trustee for the Order of the Sons of Italy in America; and a Board member of the National Italian-American Political Action Committee.
What were some of the details that helped the Board negotiate on behalf of Packer Park?
Special needs like extra police protection, extra cleanup, better management of event schedules. Our goal was to keep our community's concerns in the forefront of the stadium discussions with the city, team owners, contractors and government entities. Believe me, our voice was heard and will continue to be a strong presence when it comes to Packer Park's interests.
Tell us a little about The Reserve at Packer Park.
The Reserve at Packer Park by John Westrum Development is one of the most spectacular single-family-home communities to debut in our region. It offers families exceptional living space in the most contemporary settings, boasting three, four and five bedrooms, full dining rooms, large, ultra-modern kitchens, laundry rooms, two-and-a-half baths, and the prestige of a rock-solid community that lays claim to a brand-new billion-dollar stadium complex within walking distance to their front doors. And of course, there's that ever-attractive 10-year tax abatement from the City!
What is attracting people to these new homes?
Residents want to stay in the community and benefit from the amenities we have to offer; a driveway, green space, convenience, and a close-knit neighborhood. We had deposits three years before we even broke ground! To date, 89 are under agreement - 52 of which have already gone to settlement. It's amazing that four phases of development sold out in less than a year thanks to a unified effort, particularly from my assistant Linda Franchetti.
You have a reputation for being tough, sometimes even relentless, when it comes to doing business. Is that a fair representation?
I am the nicest person I know! It's okay if others see me as a mother tiger protecting my cubs - my neighborhood. The fact is, I love Packer Park. It's a connection to my father. When it comes to working on behalf of my neighborhood's best interests, I will not back down! I will not take "no" for an answer. "No" is not an answer, it's an excuse. If you work long enough and hard enough, you can find a creative solution that suits everyone's needs.
What words would you use to describe yourself?
Aggressive. Passionate. Resilient. Tenacious. Honest. Relentless - I think that's the word you'll see on my tombstone!
What motivates you to continue on this tireless path of community development?
Money and power are not my motivators. Neither is open appreciation. When I drive by Broad and Hartranft and I see the Eagles practice facility, the Stadium placement, I am proud of my accomplishments. I know that I am doing the best I can for the neighborhood that I've loved from the time I was a kid.
What do you say to people interested in buying a new home?
I can promise you a community of well-built homes, wonderful people, and string, caring community leaders.
Take a walk in the Park with Barbara Capozzi!
