The proposed site plan for the Centennial Commons (Courtesy of Studio | Bryan Hanes)

Centennial Commons, the project that will provide a much needed recreation space near The Please Touch Museum in West Parkside, is expected to break ground this Fall, according to a report by PlanPhilly. The first construction phase of the project, initiated by Fairmount Park Conservancy, the Parkside Association of Philadelphia and East Parkside Residents Association, includes park “porches”.

When completed, the project will provide a seating area with landscaping that will give both residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy the space. It will also include a large playground with a climbing wall and spray park.

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and the William Penn Foundation are funding the project as part of an $11 million grant to re-imagine public spaces in Philadelphia. The total cost of the Centennial Commons project is approximately $7 million.

Read more about the project here and here.

The plan to transform a mile of vacant river frontage near Bartram’s Garden on the west side of Schuylkill took another step toward reality with the announcement this week of the funding of that and other park projects in the city.

Dubbed “Bartram’s Mile,” the project would provide better river access to neighborhoods in Southwest Philadelphia, including boardwalk trails and recreation areas. The plan is for the Schuylkill River Trail along the east bank to connect to the west side. Another project, “Centennial Commons,” in the Parkside neighborhood will include a large playground with a climbing wall and spray park near the Please Touch Museum (see rendering below).

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and the William Penn Foundation will fund the projects as part of an $11 million grant to help to reimagine public spaces in Philadelphia. Spearheaded by Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park Conservancy, the initiative will serve as a pilot project to explore the impact of connecting civic spaces and the success of cities.  Continue Reading