Philadelphia PA − February 14, 2025 − Yesterday evening State Representative Elizabeth Fiedler (D–Philadelphia) and State Senator Nikil Saval (D–Philadelphia) joined Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Susan Slawson and South Philadelphia neighbors to celebrate a $600,000 state grant for repairs and upgrades to Murphy Recreation Center, a beloved South Philadelphia institution.
“I couldn’t be more grateful for the team at Murphy Rec, who work hard to make sure South Philadelphians of all ages have a safe place to spend their days,” said Representative Fiedler. “Shared public spaces like Murphy Rec are the fabric of our community, and it’s an honor to support them by bringing home this state funding. I’m excited to see this money go toward accessibility upgrades!”
The funds will be used for accessibility renovations and critical repairs, including a new entry way, accessible main-level bathrooms, interior ramps to allow access to the gymnasium from the lobby, and replacement of the aging roof.
“This is public money at its best: returning back to our neighborhoods and communities to make them healthier and more connected,” said Senator Saval. “Murphy Rec is a local anchor, and I’m so proud to have worked with Representative Fiedler to secure $600,000 to help it serve even more of our neighbors. I look forward to celebrating Murphy Rec for many years to come.”
The grant was awarded as part of the Commonwealth’s Local Share Account–Statewide program, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Projects selected must show that they offer a clear public benefit and improved quality of life for residents in the community.
“Philadelphia Parks & Recreation is truly grateful to Representative Fiedler and Senator Saval for their dedication to our city’s parks and recreation centers,” said Commissioner Slawson. “Their advocacy and commitment to securing critical funding for projects like the accessibility improvements at Murphy Recreation Center—and so many other beloved community spaces—will have a lasting impact on our neighborhoods. These investments not only enhance our parks and recreation centers but also transform them into better, safer, more vibrant, and more inclusive places for all. We are proud to stand alongside Representative Fiedler and Senator Saval in our shared mission to cultivate thriving public spaces that bring people together and enrich the lives of Philadelphians.”
More information on the Local Share Account–Statewide grant program is available from the Department of Community and Economic Development at https://dced.pa.gov/programs/local-share-account-lsa-statewide/.