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Parks for People Philadelphia Initiative: Jose Manuel Collazo Playground

A collaboration with the community for an effective transformation with a multi-beneficial outcome

  • 1.25

    Acres Managed

  • 67K

    Gal Managed/Rainfall

  • 1.42M

    Gal Managed/Year

  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

We utilized green stormwater infrastructure to minimize combined sewer overflow while also revitalizing community spaces

The EPA 2014–2018 Strategic Plan goal is to “focus on urban, rural, and economically disadvantaged communities to ensure that everyone—regardless of age, race, economic status, or ethnicity—has access to clean water, clean air, and the opportunity to live, work, and play in healthy communities.” It also places a focus on enhancing long-term climate resiliency through multi-benefit and geographically-suitable solutions.

The Jose Manuel Collazo Playground project started out at nearly 99% impervious, not exactly storm-ready. After development, a rain garden collects and manages the remaining impervious site as well as adjacent street runoff, providing pollution control, flood protection, habitat creation, water conservation, and a community gathering hub. The site also features two basketball courts, four handball courts, a playground, spray ground, tricycle track, and community area. 

As part of the Trust for Public Land, the Jose Manuel Collazo Playground project transformed an under-utilized, depreciated play area into a beautiful public recreational spot.

At a Glance

Offices
Client
  • The Trust for Public Land
Award
Sustainable Business Network’s GSI Partners, Excellence in GSI Awards, 2018 Public Project Finalist
Meet Our Team

Bernadette Callahan, Senior Associate, Green Infrastructure Sector Leader, Water

Green infrastructure supports urban resilience. Now, more than ever, cities will need to be resilient.
Bernadette Callahan Senior Associate, Green Infrastructure Sector Leader, Water Read More

Bernadette Callahan

Senior Associate, Green Infrastructure Sector Leader, Water

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