Stenton Park and Recreation Center Celebrates Re-Opening
Stenton Park and Recreation Center, completely re-designed to serve as a multi-purpose, public space for community engagement, re-opened on July 16th. The official ribbon cutting was attended by Mayor Jim Kenney, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell, Councilwoman Cindy Bass, and members of the community.
For several decades, the park had suffered from deferred maintenance, vandalism, and general deterioration. Despite facing a setback when a fire broke out in February, the park is now open for the public to enjoy. The $2.8 million dollar renovation features a complete rebuild of the facility, providing a safe, engaging play space for children and transforming the area into a community hub that is accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Designed with numerous windows for natural lighting and views the park grounds, the new Center is a welcome addition to the neighborhood and a far departure from recreation center designs of the past.
The site work, done in conjunction with Viridian Landscape Studio, included the design of a new playground with a gently sloping grade, a synthetic play surface, and new inclusive play equipment that welcome kids and families of all ages and abilities. A spray ground includes a central play space with water jets and other water-play features. Other additions include adult health and fitness equipment, picnic tables, new paths, landscaping, and lighting throughout. Integrated into the building façade is an art installation created by renowned artist Karyn Olivier, titled School is Out. The artwork features an interactive blackboard and engraved pavers with quotes largely drawn from James Logan’s philosophical treatise Of the Duties of Man, among other references to local history.
Stenton Park marks an important step in Councilwoman Cindy Bass’ Reclaiming Our Public Spaces campaign, which aims to provide safe and inviting community-focused public spaces for Philadelphia neighborhoods.
