Philadelphia – Residents of the Mayfair section of the city are living with a large sinkhole that has turned the 2900 block of Fanshawe Street into a daily safety and convenience challenge. The hole, which first appeared as a small depression in late March, has since expanded into a sizable opening that blocks traffic, eliminates a handicapped parking space and raises concerns about children wandering too close.
Neighbors voice frustration
Long‑time resident Rosanne Boudreaux described the situation as “terrible” and urged officials to act quickly: “You can’t miss this; it’s terrible. Just come out and help, take care of it, get rid of it. Whatever you can do to make it safer for our residents.” Parents echoed her worries, fearing that the hole could become a hazard for youngsters playing nearby.
Mike Shelgosh, whose wife relies on a nearby handicapped parking spot, said the loss of that space has made daily errands more difficult: “My wife needs to get in and out,” he explained.
City response and ongoing work
The Philadelphia Water Department confirmed that the sinkhole resulted from a private contractor working under the department’s Homeowner Emergency Loan Program (HELP). The contractor was addressing a defect in a property’s lateral connection to the city sewer system when the ground gave way.
According to the department, the area has been barricaded to protect residents, and crews halted work on Friday after discovering worsening conditions. Plumbing repairs are slated to continue into next week, though no firm completion date has been set.
Department spokespersons thanked neighbors for their patience and encouraged anyone who notices unsafe conditions to call 215‑685‑6300.
Community hopes for a swift resolution
Shawna Tracey, who has been documenting the sinkhole since the spring, expressed disappointment that the problem remains unresolved months later: “It started at the end of March; you would think by the end of September it would be fixed months ago.” Residents hope the street will be restored to normal before winter arrives, fearing that lingering hazards could lead to injuries.
One homeowner directly opposite the sinkhole declined an interview but told Action News that their house currently lacks running water. They have arranged alternative water sources while repairs continue.
Local officials awaiting updates
City Councilmember Mike Driscoll, who represents the Mayfair area, was contacted for comment but had not responded at the time of reporting.
As crews work to stabilize the sewer line and fill the opening, neighbors remain vigilant, keeping an eye on the barricades and reporting any new safety concerns. The community’s patience and cooperation are essential as the city strives to restore safe access and normal traffic flow to Fanshawe Street.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
