Philadelphia's historic Franklin Square is set for nearly $8 million in upgrades, aimed at enhancing the square for all visitors. Historic Philadelphia, Inc., the non-profit behind these plans, has outlined several improvements including restroom renovations and playground upgrades to increase accessibility and enjoyment.
As reported by NBC Philadelphia, the upgrades include a new restroom facility with more stalls, gender-neutral options, and handicap-accessible features. Amy Needle, President and CEO of Historic Philadelphia, stated that the lighting throughout the square would be upgraded to LED for a brighter and more environmentally friendly experience. Children will also enjoy a new playground designed to reflect the site's cultural significance and encourage nature-based play, according to Lesly Attarian, Vice President of Development at Historic Philadelphia, Inc.
The playground will incorporate input from the nearby Chinatown community and elements inspired by Benjamin Franklin, as mentioned in a 6abc report. Historic Philadelphia, Inc. shared that the play area will feature climbing towers, ziplines, and a misting area for cooling off during the summer.
In addition to recreational upgrades, transportation and safety improvements are also planned. The Franklin Square PATCO station will be modernized and reopened this spring, alongside a $1.9 million Department of Streets project. This initiative will introduce bike lanes and sidewalk extensions along Race Street, between 6th and 8th streets, with a completion target for May, according to the Metro Philadelphia. The square will also benefit from a $250,000 federally-funded initiative to install LED lights.
The Franklin Square facelift also focuses on inclusivity. The new equipment will be accessible to youth with disabilities, and signage will be available in English, Spanish, and Mandarin. "At a time when many are retreating from efforts to promote inclusion and diversity, we know that places like Franklin Square, that are welcoming and accessible to all, are essential to building a healthy, free and just society," said Shawn McCaney, executive director of the William Penn Foundation, as quoted by Metro Philadelphia.
The community impact is significant, with Mary Graham, executive director of Children’s Village, telling Metro Philadelphia that the new playground will be ideal for the more than 425 kids from their childcare center who visit the park daily.
