FDR Park Receives State Grants for Improvements

South Philadelphia's largest park is about to undergo improvements courtesy of state grants.

Officials from the Fairmount Park Conservancy and Philadelphia Parks & Recreation joined state Rep. Regina Young to announce $275,000 in newly awarded state grants for FDR Park.

According to The South Philly Review, $125,000 from the CFA Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program will support the FDR Park Nature Phase Franklin 5K and connect park landscapes to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. Another $150,000 from the PA Watershed Restoration Protection Program will help restore the Shedbrook Creek ecosystems and boost native plant biodiversity.

The 348-acre park is home to lakes, creeks, wetlands, and multiple recreation facilities.

“We cannot say the word ‘park' without thinking of children, which is why we must continue creating spaces for our youth in Philadelphia,” Young said in a statement during the announcement. “At a time when so many young people are facing challenges related to mental health and access to safe physical spaces, we must work together to support their overall well-being. These grants will help foster growth and opportunity within FDR Park for all of our young people. Together, we can accomplish so much more.”

Tony Sorrentino, CEO of Fairmount Park Conservancy, said the impacts of the restoration projects in FDR Park are essential for bolstering public health and recreational access for children and families. “It's very rare to find that combination in any city across the country, and we have it all right here at Broad and Pattison,” he said. “These projects reflect our commitment to the vision for what these 348 acres will mean to Philadelphia.”