Neighbors Park to Reopen Saturday

After several years of heavy-lifting by community members, politicians and construction workers, Neighbors Park in Wissahickon will reopen on Saturday, July 20, at 11 a.m.

The park, located at the corner of Terrace and Hermit Streets had long been a community eyesore until Councilman Curtis Jones helped secure a $250,000 grant to help rebuild the park.  

The update included included greening the park by better using rainwater, resurfacing the park's basketball court, adding some play equipment for older children, painting more play surfaces and other changes.

"This would not have been made possible with out the help and support of Councilman Curtis Jones, Jr., Craig Ablin, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, Philadelphia Horticultural Society, Community Design Collaborative, Flatiron Building Company, MOPS, Winnie's LeBus, and the countless members of the Councilman's office, Philadelphia City Services and members of the Community," said Wissahickon Neighbors Civic Association President Drew Bantly.

To celebrate the park's opening, the civic association will be hosting a community picnic that will include kids activities, food from Winnie's LeBus and a ribbon cutting ceremony at 2 p.m. with Councilman Jones.

Additionally, the park water spray will be on, and there will be a moon bounce and face painter/balloon artist for the kids.

The picnic runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Neighbors Park located at the intersection of Terrace and Hermit Streets.