Center City Playground To Receive Face-Lift
By Mike Dougherty
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Markward Playground in Center City is set to undergo a drastic, million-dollar renovation thanks to funding from both the city and state.
Yes, there are other places in the city that could really use a face-lift, but Parks and Rec commissioner Kathryn Ott Lovell says this playground's popularity pushed it to the top of the list.
"It doesn't just serve the local residents, but serves residents from around the city. It's really become a regional destination because of its proximity to the river, because of it's proximity to center city," said Ott Lovell.
Most of the money will go toward improvements to make the playground compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act. Councilman Kenyatta Johnson put up $300,000 from his general fund.
And nearly $400,000 is coming from the state, after Representative Brian Sims fought for it in Harrisburg, where cash is pretty tough to come by these days.
"These funds are going to be used for the right reasons, and we were able to bend the right ears," said Sims.