See Before and After Images Here
PHILADELPHIA – Today, City and State officials, Rebuild Philadelphia, Community Ventures, and community members celebrated the grand reopening of the newly renovated Cohocksink Recreation Center, which received a $4.45 million makeover through the City’s Rebuild program, a historic investment of over $500 million in 72 neighborhood parks, recreation centers, and libraries.
“It is so important that our young people have safe, engaging places to play, learn, and grow – especially during the summer months, when school is out,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This renovated playground and basketball court gives the young people of Port Richmond what every neighborhood in our city deserves: a vibrant public space where families can come together and kids can be kids.”
Located within one of the oldest and close-knit neighborhoods of Port Richmond, Cohocksink Rec has long served as a gathering place for local families. The newly reopened site honors the legacy of this community hub by offering safe, modern amenities that reflect the neighborhood’s evolving needs.
“Recreation centers are the heart of every neighborhood, especially here in Port Richmond,” said Councilmember Mark Squilla (1st District). “Through its accessible design, dynamic play spaces, and safety features, this renovation will ensure all are welcome.”
The renovation project was completed in nearly a year, demonstrating Rebuild’s commitment, under the Capital Program Office, to efficient project management and delivery.
“It’s a proud day for Port Richmond,” added Aparna Palantino, Deputy Managing Director, Capital Program Office. “The renovation of Cohocksink Recreation Center is the result of true collaboration between the City, Rebuild Philadelphia, Community Ventures, and the residents who call this neighborhood home, and support from the Commonwealth.”
Totaling $4.45 million, the renovations at Cohocksink Recreation Center include:
- New expanded playground safety surface and equipment
- Exterior lighting and security cameras
- Sports field upgrades (pending completion)
- New Basketball courts
- Perimeter fencing improvements
- Sidewalk Improvements
- New trees
“With upgraded courts, a vibrant new playground, and a renovated field on the way, Cohocksink Rec is now better equipped to support the kind of quality programming and opportunities our staff bring to this community every day,” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. “It’s a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming space for kids and families to play and connect.”
In addition to funding from the City’s Rebuild program, the project received $1 million from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and $600,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
“Our recreation centers are essential spaces for residents to learn, connect, play, and foster creativity,” said Joseph C. Hohenstein, State Representative (177th District). “Cohocksink’s transformation provides the community with a modern, welcoming facility that reflects how much we value not just our youth, but community members of all ages.”
The Rebuild team and Community Ventures worked closely with residents to shape the design and vision for the updated site. Hands-on activities held throughout the community design phase also helped teach young participants about construction and civic engagement.
“Community Ventures wants to thank the Port Richmond community and close neighbors for their collaboration to set the vision for this renovation and Rebuild for its continued partnership,” said Troy Hannigan, Director of Development at Community Ventures. “We hope the community enjoys these improvements to the Cohocksink Recreation Center for generations to come.”
Rebuild is the City’s historic investment of over $500 million in neighborhood parks, recreation centers, and libraries across Philadelphia. Rebuild promises to acknowledge history, engage the community, and invest intentionally to uplift pivotal community spaces, empower neighborhoods, and promote economic opportunity for all.
Community Ventures is a Philadelphia non-profit real estate development and property management organization founded in 1987 to work in partnership with neighborhoods to improve communities and increase the supply of affordable housing. Community Ventures was selected by Rebuild to manage the Cohocksink Recreation Center improvements, including community engagement, design, and construction.