The Borough of Swarthmore has officially adopted its new Comprehensive Plan: Imagine Swarthmore, a community-driven guide for local decision-making over the next decade.
Home to about 6,500 residents, roughly 45 minutes southwest of Philadelphia, Swarthmore is known for its walkable town center, historic and attractive neighborhoods, and close ties to Swarthmore College. Since adopting its 2006 Multi-Municipal Comprehensive Plan, the community’s many active civic groups and the Borough have completed numerous focused studies. The new plan brings those efforts into a unified vision for the future.
Planning NEXT led a team, including Interface Studio and Urban Partners, which was engaged by Swarthmore to lead an inclusive planning process that focused on multifaceted involvement of residents and analysis of opportunities for this land-locked suburb to maximize its potential as one of the region’s most desirable communities. Key priorities for Swarthmore included:
- Improving housing options. A major theme of Imagine Swarthmore is diverse and equitable housing. Rising housing costs have made it difficult for longtime residents and young families to stay in the community. The plan recommends creative, context-sensitive strategies such as allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), subdividing large homes, and targeted infill near the town center and transit station. These approaches expand housing choice and affordability while maintaining Swarthmore’s distinctive charm.
- Advancing the Borough’s relationship to the College. The plan also outlines continued collaboration with Swarthmore College, a cornerstone of the Borough’s identity and economy. Working closely with the College helped identify shared goals around housing, amenities, accessibility, and a vibrant town center. Strengthening this partnership will support a more connected, inclusive community.
- Identifying Options on an Opportunity Site. Another key area of focus was the creation of concepts for parking lots owned by SEPTA and Swarthmore College, just north of the SEPTA station and town center. Careful collaboration among the Borough, SEPTA and the College could significantly advance the community’s vision for a more walkable, connected downtown.
The adoption of Imagine Swarthmore marks an important milestone. The plan will guide zoning updates, infrastructure investments, and community programs, ensuring that Swarthmore continues to build a strong sense of purpose and place.
