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PHILADELPHIA – Today, Rebuild, the Capital Program Office, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier (3rd District), Philadelphia Parks and Recreation, and community members gathered to break ground on the West Mill Creek Playground and Plaza.
“Public space projects like this one are moving in every corner of Philadelphia, each one bringing new energy, opportunity, and pride to the neighborhoods they serve,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Every ribbon cutting, every groundbreaking, every playground rebuilt is proof that when we say we’re investing in our communities, we mean it and we’re doing it, one project at a time.”
The project is part of a $4.5 million investment through the City’s Rebuild program, supported by a $600,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account program and $500,000 from Councilmember Jaime Gauthier through the Improvement to Existing Facilities (ITEF) program.
“Investing in our parks and playgrounds is investing in the future of our neighborhoods,” said Councilmember Jamie Gauthier (3rd District). “I contributed half a million dollars to this project because West Mill Creek deserves high-quality public spaces where they can play, gather, and build community. After decades of neglect, I am glad this beloved neighborhood space is finally starting to get its fair share of resources!”
This groundbreaking represents the second phase of improvements at the West Mill Creek site, following the renovation of basketball courts and an adjacent retaining wall completed in August.
The renovation project will include:
- New playground and equipment
- A redesigned and refurbished Brown Street Plaza
- New site furnishings
- Enhanced exterior lighting and security cameras
- Exterior site signage
- New fencing
- Tree planting and landscaping improvements
“By leveraging Rebuild funding along with state grant funding, we are bringing a comprehensive vision for West Mill Creek to life,” said Aparna Palantino, Deputy Managing Director, Capital Program Office. “This site demonstrates the impact of phased investment. When this project is complete, the exterior spaces at this site will be transformed and elevated.”
Through extensive community input, the renovation addresses neighborhood priorities, including safety, accessibility, and connection. Modern playground equipment will serve children of all ages and abilities, while the redesigned Brown Street Plaza offers a gathering space for community events and everyday use.
“Parks and playgrounds are where childhood memories are made and community bonds are strengthened,” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. “The new West Mill Creek Playground and Plaza will provide modern spaces for recreation and gathering that reflect the character of this neighborhood.”
The City of Philadelphia’s Capital Program Office (CPO) oversees the engineering, architectural, and project management functions for more than 200 active construction projects across the city. This includes upgrades to parks and recreation centers, libraries, fire and police stations, health centers, and other City-owned facilities. Through cross-departmental coordination and a commitment to continuous improvement, CPO works to improve public facilities to better serve Philadelphia residents.
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.