McClinton, Harris announce $2.6 million to build a new boathouse and workshop in Bartram’s Garden

State Reps. Joanna McClinton and Jordan Harris announced today a grant for more than $2.6 million will invest in expanding outdoor opportunities at Bartram’s Garden.

The John Bartram Association was awarded the funding through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program to help construct an 18,000-square-foot community boathouse and workshop on previously developed land near the popular public dock, facing both the Schuylkill River and the Bartram’s Mile Trail.

“From hiking to boating, Bartram’s Garden provides our neighbors with so many great outdoor activities in a safe environment,” said McClinton, D-Phila./Delaware. “I am proud to work with House Democratic Whip Jordan Harris and Bartram’s Garden to secure these dollars and help grow such a critical resource that so many rely on both in and around our communities.”

“This funding represents another step toward creating a destination spot for enjoying the outdoors in Southwest Philadelphia,” said Harris, D-Phila. “I appreciate Governor Tom Wolf’s understanding of the importance of this project, and I’m honored to work with our Democratic Leader Joanna McClinton to bring these resources home to benefit our communities and the city at large.”

"We're honored and grateful for Leader McClinton’s and Whip Harris’ support in making Bartram's Garden and the Tidal Schuylkill River a welcoming space for all our neighbors,” said Maitreyi Roy, Bartram’s Garden executive director. “This project grows from our commitment to strengthening the riverfront as a safe and beautiful place for fun, for school children to learn about nature and urban ecosystems, and for growing the next generation of environmental justice leaders in Southwest Philadelphia."

The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program is a grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects.

RACP projects are authorized in the Redevelopment Assistance section of a Capital Budget Itemization Act, have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact, and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenue or other measures of economic activity.