Fiedler announces S.P.R.I.N.G. initiative for public spaces in South Philly; celebrates $3.6 million already awarded
Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler April 30, 2026 | 1:58 PM
PHILADELPHIA, April 30 – State Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler, D-Phila, today announced her new initiative, South Philly Revitalization Initiative for New Greenspace, or SPRING, to encourage the maintenance and development of playgrounds, green space, and other public spaces in her district.
“It’s important that children, seniors and people of all ages have a space for relaxation and recreation right in their own neighborhood,” Fiedler said. “Playgrounds and green space are good for our bodies and our minds, and serve as important gathering spaces in our communities, allowing us to connect and meet our neighbors. Since I came into office, we have worked diligently to bring back state funds for this purpose. I’m so proud of the work that we have done!”
Since taking office, Fiedler has brought in over $3.6 million in state funding to directly support schools, community centers, libraries, parks, sports facilities, and other spaces for rest and play.
Green and recreation spaces have many proven benefits for communities, especially for youth. Research shows that playgrounds have a positive impact on children’s mental and physical health. Access to green spaces like parks also eases stress, encourages physical activity, and creates positive social conditions that deter crime for both children and adults.
The initiative will also bring ecological and infrastructural benefits to South Philly. Trees and plant life reduce the heat island effect, while areas with permeable ground like gardens and natural playgrounds prevent urban flooding, which causes damage and financial strain to homes, businesses, and city infrastructure like roads.
George W. Sharswood School is one of the most recent recipients of state grant funding in Fiedler’s district. Their $225,000 grant will be used to transform the school’s concrete courtyard into a welcoming play space with sensory gardens, murals, and nature-focused areas.
“This long-overdue project will give our students a safe, welcoming space filled with greenery, soft and safe play equipment, and opportunities to explore and learn through their senses. More than anything, it brings joy—our students deserve a space that lifts them up every day, and we can’t wait to see them thrive in it,” said Leigh A. Vitvitsky, principal of Sharswood.
Along with community centers and parks, schools are a major part of Fiedler’s initiative. Fiedler’s district includes 12 public and private K-12 schools along with a number of early childhood education and childcare centers. As of this spring, Fiedler has helped bring in over $878,700 in state grants specifically for school recreational facilities and green spaces.
“Thanks to a grant from Rep. Fiedler in 2022, we were able to transform our barren concrete schoolyard into a welcoming and safe space for students,” said Pauline Cheung, principal of Francis Scott Key Elementary. “With artificial turf, outdoor seating, balance beams, and a dedicated soccer area that reflected our community’s wishes, the playground has quickly become a centerpiece of joy and activity. Looking ahead, we would love to continue building on this momentum with future grants that further enhance outdoor learning and play opportunities for our students”
Last September, Fiedler was joined by City Councilmember Mark Squilla, Superintendent Tony Watlington, and Principal Siouda Douglas to celebrate new facilities at A.S. Jenks school paid for with a $150,000 Department of Education grant.
“Rep. Fiedler made our students' dreams come true after over a decade of us applying for funding for a playground at A.S. Jenks,” said Douglas. “You can hear screams of joy and laughter at recess. Students are coming to school earlier in the morning, decreasing late arrivals by 70%, coupled with other strategies. Injuries have decreased tremendously, and families are socializing more before and after school.”
School leaders, “Friends of” groups, and other community leaders who are interested in applying for state grants for public space projects are encouraged to reach out to Rep. Fiedler’s office by emailing repfiedler@pahouse.net or calling (215) 271-9190.
To see an interactive map of all past and current SPRING projects, head to bit.ly/spring184map