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RECAP: Looking back on the week that was

• Pa. in the spotlight after Roe v. Wade falls

In some of Philadelphia’s largest demonstrations since 2020, thousands gathered to protest the Supreme Court decision striking down constitutional protections for abortion. The procedure is currently legal up to 24 weeks in Pennsylvania — here are places offering services in Philly — but it might not be for long if Doug Mastriano beats Josh Shapiro in November. The face-off has pundits calling Pa.’s gubernatorial contest “the most important election this year in America.” [Billy Penn/Billy Penn/@nytimes]

• City budget passes with boost for police, arts, libraries

As expected, City Council approved Philadelphia’s $5.8 billion operating budget. Its provisions, which take effect July 1, include a minor wage tax cut; a larger property tax exemption; a bigger police budget and more anti-violence funding; a boost for various arts programs; a large increase in library funding; and money to keep rec centers open on weekends. [Billy Penn/WHYY/Inquirer$/Billy Penn/Inquirer$]

• Delaware River Trail shines in summer debut

This is the first summer where pedestrians (and joggers, cyclists, rollerbladers — choose your personal transport mode!) can traverse Philadelphia’s waterfront in an unbroken path from Fishtown to South Philly. Long in the works, the Delaware River Trail is now open for use, and Asha Prihar detailed 6 don’t-miss stops along the way. [Billy Penn]

• Sixers co-owner Michael Rubin is divesting

The Sixers landed a win with their draft night trade for De’Anthony Melton, but the behind-the-scenes news is an even bigger shakeup: longtime co-owner Michael Rubin announced he’s selling his stake in the team. Rubin, who partnered with Meek Mill to launch a criminal justice reform nonprofit, is divesting to avoid conflicts of interest as he expands Fanatics. The sports apparel empire is now getting into trading cards and betting. [Sixers Wire/ESPN/GQ/CNBC]

Divine Lorraine on North Broad Street Credit: Mark Henninger / Imagic Digital

VISION: Looking forward to the week ahead

• Some SEPTA fares will drop

SEPTA also passed its operating budget, tipping in at $1.6 billion. When the new fiscal year goes into effect this Friday, some fares will go down: the day pass goes from $9 to $6, for example, and Regional Rail from Center City to Zone one drops by 25 cents. Regular in-city fare stays at $2. It’s an effort to boost ridership, which remains at 52% of pre-COVID capacity. [Mass Transit/KYW]

• Chestnut Street bus lane goes red

Half of transit users in the city ride buses, and riders might see faster service through part of Center City if a new design effort works. The Chestnut Street bus-only lane, which has theoretically existed for decades but is rarely observed by cars, is now painted bright red from 2nd to Broad. It’s a tactic that’s proven effective in Boston and other cities to keep autos out of the way. [phila.gov/NBC10/WBUR]

• Phillies face a Harper-less season

Just as the Phillies were eking out a comeback under interim manager Rob Thomson — his record is 14-3 since taking over — they were hit with a major blow. Literally, as a pitch smashed into Bryce Harper’s thumb, fracturing it and taking the MVP slugger out indefinitely. A bright side story: former No. 1 draft pick Mark Appel finally got a chance to play in the big leagues after 9 years in the minors. [94WIP/NBCS Philly/MLB]

• Fourth of July celebrations take off

As makes sense since this is where it all started, Philadelphia goes big for the Fourth of July. Celebrations are already underway as the holiday weekend approaches. This week brings events like Wawa Hoagie Day, fireworks on the Delaware waterfront, and free admission to museums around the city. [NBC10/Welcome America/Visit Philly]