by Veronica Wakefield, ScoopUSA Media Intern
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation is meant to create a safe recreational environment for all Philadelphians. The 166 miles of trails, management of 500 recreation buildings, 250 playgrounds, and 10,200 acres of public land and waterways, the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation’s goal is the advancement of the city’s well-being. The program creates a bridge between communities and the natural world surrounding them.
Tuesday, July 11, 2023, Mayor Jim Kenney, Councilman Darrell L. Clarke (5th District), and Philadelphia Flyer’s mascot Gritty, unveiled its newly renovated hockey rink at the Fishtown Recreation Center to the public. The renovation was made possible by the “Philadelphia Rebuild Program,” created by the Soda Tax (2017) to invest millions of dollars into community centers, parks, and libraries around the city.
“Hearing nostalgic stories from local community members lights fire into why Rebuild is doing the work we are; to know past and future generations will now have the ability to make memories that they will later pass on to their kids, shows the true heart and soul of these site locations. Keeping traditions and history alive is top of mind during all Rebuild work,” said Rebuild Executive Director Kira Strong.
The $2.5 million investments from the Rebuild program helped upgrade the look of the original rink by installing a new roof, handicap-accessible upgrades, fresh line stripping for three different sports (hockey, futsal, pickleball), and much more. The site itself is 1.4 acres, made up of a multi-use hockey rink, playground equipment, basketball courts, a spray ground, and a picnic area. Also included in the $2.5 million investment were storm drains, a concrete deck, updated pier work, and site signage.
“Philadelphia is a sports city through and through, and sports play a critical part in supporting our young people to grow, thrive, and build their futures,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “From new mini soccer pitches to artificial turf football fields, and today Fishtown Recreation Center’s completely renovated outdoor hockey rink, Rebuild has engaged with the community to plan and update each site in accordance with the needs of the neighborhood.”
After the initial ribbon cutting and speeches ended, the center opened the floor to the children to commence the first official hockey game. The Philadelphia Flyers provided bouncy houses for youth who weren’t interested in participating in the hockey game.
“The hockey rink is a well-used and well-loved public space for the community,” said Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Interim Commissioner Orlando Rendon. “We’re so pleased to be able to welcome hockey leagues back to Fishtown Rec and expand the programming opportunities here. From the playground, pool, and now the hockey rink, we’re grateful to the Rebuild program for its continued investment in Fishtown.”
“The reopening and remodeling of the hockey rink at Fishtown Rec Center is very important for this community, said Council President Darrell L. Clarke (5th District), who represents the area. “Philadelphia has a proud history when it comes to ice hockey, and we want to thank the Philadelphia Flyers along with Rebuild for the partnership and the work. Who knows? Maybe the next Bobby Clarke or Claude Giroux will develop their hockey skills right here in Fishtown! This is a very good day for this neighborhood, and we’re grateful for the investment and the work.”
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