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New Waterfront Park Opens In South Philadelphia

By Cherri Gregg

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation cut the ribbon on a $1.8 million park in South Philadelphia Thursday.

It's the third pier park opened along the Delaware River in the past six years.

Located on Columbus Avenue behind the Walmart parking lot, Pier 68 is tucked behind a canopy of trees, but a walk across the entrance deck reveals distinctive views of the Delaware River and the city skyline.

 

Pier 68 In South Philadelphia
Pier 68 in South Philadelphia. (credit: Cherri Gregg/KYW)

 

"We're taking down one more no trespassing sign and providing the public with access and greenspace we promised six years ago," said Mayor Michael Nutter.

Mayor Nutter called the pier another example of transforming blight into usable public space.

The half-acre park includes picnic tables, sculpted wooden benches in the shape of waves and lots and lots of greenery. It's a quiet place where fishermen are invited to catch and release.

 

Pier 68 in South Philadelphia
Pier 68 in South Philadelphia. (credit: Cherri Gregg/KYW)

 

But Pier 68 is just part of the master plan -- another project is the permanent Delaware River Trail running from Pier 70 Boulevard to Washington Avenue North.  That trail will later be connected with the East Coast and Spring Garden Greenway.

 

Pier 68 in South Philadelphia
Pier 68 in South Philadelphia. (credit: Cherri Gregg/KYW)
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