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South Philadelphia residents celebrate a new playground at Stinger Square
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell joined Councilman Kenyatta Johnson and the Grays Ferry community to cut the ribbon on new playground equipment at Stinger Square Park.
PHILADELPHIA – On Thursday December 1st, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell joined Councilman Kenyatta Johnson (District 2), and Grays Ferry community members to celebrate the installation of new playground equipment and safety surfacing at Stinger Square Playground.
A ceremonial ribbon cutting took place on the playground, alongside children and community leaders from the Grays Ferry neighborhood.
The $350,000 project was the culmination of an effort led by the late Irene Russell, who served as President of The Friends of Stinger Square for many years. In September 2021, the 3200 block of Reed Street, where the park is located, was renamed “Irene Russell Way” in honor of her service and dedication to the Grays Ferry community.
“I know this playground will get a lot of use in the new year, and for years to come,” said Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell. “We’re grateful to be able to serve and provide safe and high-quality recreation to the young people of South Philadelphia.
“Irene Russell was a friend, and tremendous advocate and leader for the children and families of Grays Ferry,” said Councilman Kenyatta Johnson. “Investments in places like Stinger Square and playgrounds and recreation centers throughout the Second Council District are a critical investment in anti-violence and community safety.”
Learn more and find a playground near you today at: https://bit.ly/StingerSquare
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) advances the prosperity of the city and the progress of its people through stewardship of nearly 10,200 acres of public land and waterways, and management of 500 recreation buildings, 166 miles of trail, and 250 playgrounds. PPR offers safe, enjoyable recreation, environmental and cultural programs and events throughout Philadelphia’s parks and recreation system. PPR promotes the well-being and growth of the city’s residents by connecting them to the natural world, to each other and to fun, physical and social opportunities. In 2017, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell, set about implementing the park system’s first strategic plan: Our Path to 2020 and Beyond. As a result, PPR is undertaking a period of historic change, setting the department on a course to become a modern, equitable and exceptional parks and recreation system. Visit us at www.phila.gov/parksandrec, and follow @philaparkandrec on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.