PHILADELPHIA, PA − October 23, 2026 − Today, State Senator Art Haywood, Mayor Cherelle Parker and representatives from MT. Airy CDC held a grant presentation press conference outside of the construction site of Simons Recreation Center III. Together, they announced a $1.5 million state grant for major renovations at Simons Recreation Center III, bringing expanded athletic facilities, upgraded recreational spaces, and improved accessibility to Northwest Philadelphia.
“With all of the expanded athletic and recreation facilities, Simons will serve Northwest Philadelphia for decades and help show what’s possible for all of our recreation centers and sports campuses across the city,” said Mayor Parker.
Mt. Airy CDC was awarded the funding through Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP). The investment will support an ongoing series of improvements designed to enhance recreational opportunities for children, families, athletes, and residents throughout the community.
“This is a statement that we who have been elected to office, we see you, we hear you, and we are responding,” said Senator Haywood this morning, “…special thanks to Mayor Parker, who many years ago, we came up with a pledge to bring more money to our neighborhoods than those who were before us…We were committed to compete. And we competed.”
