[Philly Fan]

The Wall Street Journal just posted an interesting article reporting intelligence gathered from recent Amazon site visits to some of the 20 HQ2 finalists. Maybe it's because I'm biased, but I read this as good news for Philly's--and especially SY's--chances:

Rules of Engagement: How Cities Are Courting Amazon’s New Headquarters

For example:

So many cities are nixing the fancy hotels, dinners at the governor’s mansion, private planes and small gifts—all typical core aspects of a traditional site visit, according to people familiar with the matter. “We were concerned that if we went over the top, it would push them away,” said a person involved in one site visit.

Instead, they are attempting to be creative by bringing in university officials, younger people and professionals who can speak to talent and growth in the area. Officials are adding visits to trendier neighborhoods to highlight the draw for younger employees. And cities have even ferried Amazon executives around by bicycle and boat as modes of transportation.

A few of Amazon’s desires are crystallizing, some of the people said. The company appears to be leaning toward a more urban site, despite requesting proposals that included sites in the suburbs. It also wants to come to a city prepared to handle its growth and the influx of high-paid employees.

“They believe there is no American city that can provide for all their needs,” said the person involved in a site visit. Another person said the company expects to have to compromise no matter which location it selects. Amazon has also placed particular emphasis on the tech talent pipeline: How much already exists locally, and how much Amazon can attract from around North America and the rest of the world.