Bala Cynwyd

Bala Cynwyd is a suburban community in Lower Merion Township in Pennsylvania that extends along the Schuylkill River. Residential areas alternate with commercial buildings and green spaces, while West Laurel Hill Cemetery sits to the south.

Welsh Quaker families purchased around 5000 acres from William Penn in 1682 and founded a settlement named after two towns in their homeland. The proximity to Philadelphia led to growth during the 20th century and the establishment of media companies.

The name combines two Welsh towns and recalls the Quaker settlers from the 17th century who shaped this part of Pennsylvania. The community preserves its connection to Welsh heritage through names and street designations throughout the area.

The Schuylkill Expressway and City Line Avenue form the main traffic routes and connect the area with downtown Philadelphia. Parks along the riverbank offer walking paths and recreation options for visitors and residents.

CBS and ABC operate studios and broadcast facilities here, making this location a media center in the greater Philadelphia area. This presence brought jobs and technical infrastructure to the residential areas along the river.