Philadelphia – Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PP&R) Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell was joined by Councilwoman Cindy Bass and members of the Mt. Airy community to launch the latest PP&R program, Swim Philly, at Pleasant Playground. Swim Philly will bring fun programming, special events for all ages, comfortable seating and lounges, umbrellas, plants and more to brighten and enliven typically empty pool decks and five neighborhood locations across Philadelphia. Swim Philly builds on the success of one instillation at Francisville Pool last summer.
“I’m very pleased that we were able to expand to four additional locations this summer,” said Commissioner Ott Lovell. “This expansion will allow us to introduce these revamped pools to more citizens across the city.”
Swim Philly will be returning to its flagship location at Francisville Playground, along with the following new locations:
- Pleasant Playground in Mt. Airy
- Lee Cultural Center in West Philly
- Lawncrest Recreation Center in Northeast Philly
- O’Connor Pool at Markward Recreation Center in southwest Center City
“Water access and safety are important for our young people but the pools are often surrounded by hard, hot concrete. This exciting program brings a country club feel to what is an otherwise drab environment,” said Councilwoman Bass. “The pool at Pleasant Playground is sure to become a welcome escape for all swimmers and sunbathers in the area, young and old alike!”
The Department of Parks & Recreation operates more than seventy pools every summer in neighborhoods across the City. Residents can find listings for pools by neighborhood at www.phila.gov/pools.