Chris Spahr

Urban Innovation Fellow
Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation

Chris Spahr is the Executive Director of the Centennial Parkside Community Development Corporation, a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization emphasizing equitable redevelopment in the East Parkside neighborhood of West Philadelphia. In his work, Chris supports residents striving to preserve, promote and revitalize their neighborhood. His organization does this through partnerships with businesses, institutions and programs that engage residents, increase opportunity, and grow a diverse, thriving community.

Chris lives in West Philadelphia with his wife and daughter.  When he is not doing puzzles or having dance parties with his three year old, Chris conducts research in support of an ongoing PhD in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Wisconsin. His dissertation focuses on community owned renewable energy systems that support vibrant neighborhoods and empower people to reach their fullest potential.

Chris has a varied background, which has allowed him to work in east Africa and South America as well in youth development in Harrisburg and as an urban planner in the private sector in Pennsylvania and in Wisconsin. The events in his life that have led him to this point are numerous and diverse, but all point in the direction of service to communities striving to reach their fullest potential.