Philadelphia, PA − September 16, 2026 − State Senator Art Haywood (D-Philadelphia & Montgomery Counties) and neighboring state representatives welcome over $4 million in state funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Economic and Community Development for their communities.
“While these state dollars are physically improving our neighborhoods, they are also advancing the dignity of our neighbors,” said Sen. Art Haywood. “Through the joint advocacy of our local state representatives, we secured funding for critical community improvements that will benefit our neighborhoods for generations to come. This is what government working for the people looks like.”
Senator Haywood and Rep. Benjamin Sanchez welcome:
- Roslyn Community Center, Abington Township, Montgomery County: $1,000,000
- Funding professional services and engineering costs for the planning and design of the community center remodeling.
- Jarrett Playground Community Building and Inclusive Playground, Rockledge Borough, Montgomery County: $500,000
- Funding will be used for construction, the purchase and installation of equipment, and engineering costs for ADA repairs to the playground.
“Investing in places where neighbors come together is one of the most meaningful commitments we can make. The Jarrett Playground Community Building and Abington Township’s new community center are more than construction projects, they strengthen local families, create safe spaces for recreation, expand opportunities for learning, and support the health and connection of the entire community,” said Rep. Ben Sanchez. “These projects are long-term investments in our shared future, and I was proud to support both Rockledge and Abington Township as they sought grant funding for these important efforts.”
Senator Haywood and Rep. Napoleon Nelson welcome:
- Curtis Arboretum Accessibility Improvement, Cheltenham Township, Montgomery County: $400,000
- Funding will be used for the construction and engineering costs to improve accessibility to the park and grounds. Additional improvements will include installing lighting in the parking lot to increase safety and constructing a new sign to increase site visibility.
- Glenside Pool, Cheltenham Township, Montgomery County: $350,000
- Funding will go toward demolition costs for the original 1967 Glenside Pool and the construction of a new pool complex for recreation and community space.
- Rowland Community Center, Cheltenham Township, Montgomery County: $400,000
- Funding will be used for construction and engineering costs for making ADA and energy-efficiency improvements.
- Grace Presbyterian Church elevator replacement project, Jenkintown Borough, Montgomery County: $300,000
- Funding will be used for the construction and engineering costs of a new elevator in the church.
“I am excited to see these funds come back into our communities,” Nelson said. “We remain committed to partnering with our local officials and residents in advocating for our community, park and recreation assets.”
Senator Haywood and State Rep. Chris Rabb welcome:
- Quintessence Theatre Group, Mount Airy, Philadelphia County: $750,000
- Funding will be used for construction, engineering, and administrative costs for two new elevators in the theater. The funding will support a front passenger elevator and a rear service elevator to move theater equipment.
“I appreciate the support of Senator Haywood as we work to make the Sedgwick Theater an even better experience for patrons and artists alike,” said Rep. Chris Rabb. “The theater has been a home base for Philadelphia arts for nearly a century, and this funding will keep that tradition alive and thriving.”
Senator Haywood and State Rep. Khan welcome:
- Woodmere Community Accessibility and Environmental Stewardship Institute, Philadelphia City, Philadelphia County: $758,755
- Funding will be used for the renovation, construction, and engineering costs to repair the porch at Charles Knox Smith Hall and its accessibility ramp. The funding will also support ADA improvements between halls and create a retaining wall for accessible pathways.
“Woodmere is more than a museum. It educates our children, supports local artists, and brings our community together,” said Rep. Tarik Khan. “At the beginning of my term, Senator Haywood and I secured $750,000 for Woodmere, and with this new $759,000 grant, we’ve helped bring more than $1.5 million in state funding to this institution over the last four years. At a time when museums are closing, we should be investing in institutions that educate our children and strengthen our communities, not watching them disappear.”
Senator Haywood and State Rep. Andre Carroll welcome:
- Wyck Chimney Restoration and Site Drainage, Germantown, Philadelphia County: $175,160
- Funding will be used for renovation and engineering costs to restore the four chimneys at the Wyck House and repairing water drainage infrastructure.
- Pre-Development For Washington Lane & Germantown Ave Accessible, Affordable, Apartment Properties, Germantown, Philadelphia County: $229,826
- Funding will be used for engineering and professional costs for architectural and engineering design to renovate two ADA-accessible, low-income apartment complexes for physically disabled individuals in Philadelphia City, Philadelphia County.
“It’s an honor to be able to bring these resources into the community. From preserving history to advancing stable housing, these projects are deeply important to me,” said Rep. Carroll. “I’ve toured these spaces and seen firsthand the urgent need for improvements. I will continue to advocate for funding these critical projects.”
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