Just in time for summer, a new state-of-the-art nature-themed playground has opened in Cobbs Creek near 63rd and Spruce. A ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by state and city officials, as well as students from Add B. Anderson Middle School and community members, took place on Wednesday afternoon.

The new Cobbs Creek Nature Playground combines modern and unique features to create a “nature-themed play oasis.” All play equipment was made from refurbished solid wood and the playground was designed around the existing trees. The playground itself has been designed to cultivate imaginative play with ample swinging and climbing structures.

“I’m grateful to see the vision for this site come to fruition just in time for summer,’ said Mayor Jim Kenney. “Cobbs Creek Playground has been an integral part of the West Philadelphia community, and now it’s a space where the community can safely play and proudly call their own.”

The improvements at Cobbs Creek were made thanks to the city’s Rebuild program, Philadelphia’s $500 million historic investment in public spaces. The investments into the playground is part of more than $25 million in investments coming to Cobbs Creek through Rebuild. Through this program, community members will see improvements to the Nature Playground, Environmental Center, Johnny Sample (Cobbs Creek) Recreation Center, and Blanche A. Nixon (Cobbs Creek) Library.

Totaling in $1.6 million in investment, the improvements at the Cobbs Creek playground include (see more photos below):

• New nature-themed, solid wood, play equipment including swings, climbing, colorful play mounds, and water misters to foster imaginative play.
• Water fountain
• Newly planted trees
• On-site seating (made from refurbished tree stumps and logs)
• Lawn area
• New walking paths
• Trash receptacles
• Pedestrian lighting and security cameras

Cobbs Creek Nature Playground is also one of many projects throughout the city to introduce playful learning. At the Nature Playground, additions have been added to the site to inspire playful learning, including puzzle walls, textured turtle play equipment, interactive panels at low eyesight for children, and literacy wall.

“The renovations here at Cobbs Creek will provide West Philadelphia families with imaginative outdoor space to grow and play,” said Rebuild Executive Director Kira Strong. “I always say that all Rebuild sites are for the entire community, beyond the play equipment, this site’s paved nature path and preserved trees are for all ages to enjoy.”

The project at Cobbs Nature Playground was funded in part with American Rescue Plan funding facilitated by the Department of Community and Economic Development – State Speaker Joanna McClinton of the House and Representative for the Cobbs Creek neighborhood played a major role in advocating for this support.

“I am proud to call Cobbs Creek home for many reasons, but especially because it is a great community for neighbors of all ages,” said Pennsylvania Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton. “When community members and elected leaders collaborate, we can make beautiful things happen, and the restoration of the Cobbs Creek Playground is a perfect example of what we can achieve.”

Aerial view.

Here’s what the playground looked like before.