Artist James Dupree fends off eminent domain effort by Philadelphia City Hall
“The Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority still wants to build a grocery store in the city’s Mantua neighborhood, but it won’t be taking James Dupree’s art studio to do it.
The PRA on Thursday relented on its quest to acquire the renowned Dupree’s studio via eminent domain, saying the legal costs resulting from Dupree’s appeal of condemnation proceedings made it “impossible” to continue the pursuit of his property.
Dupree wasn’t immediately available for comment, but Melinda Haring, activism manager for the Institute for Justice, called it an “enormous victory.” Dupree had partnered with the institute to bring awareness to his situation.
“Dupree lost many years of his work and life fighting this illegal and unconstitutional land grab,” Haring said in a written statement. “James’ victory puts the City of Philadelphia on notice: The city cannot take private property for private development ever again.””
Staub, Andrew. Independent 12 December 2014.