Inspired by the site’s woodland qualities, the project offers a nature-based, inclusive play experience. Conceptualized as a clearing among the trees, the playground features a loop path to preserve and integrate existing trees into the play experience.

The Cobbs Creek Playground exemplifies the Design Team’s mission, which is founded on the belief that the public realm is the most important space in our cities. Through their work, they strive to revitalize underutilized and underinvested spaces by creating vibrant, welcoming public spaces that strengthen community connections with ecology, as well as enhance beauty and local identity.

The incorporation of nature-themed, solid wood play equipment provides a range of play value and serves both children and adults of all ages. Logs salvaged from the Philadelphia Parks system were repurposed on site as creative play opportunities.

The circulation network was intentionally designed to protect and maintain the site’s existing mature tree canopy. This ensured that the playground would have ample shade from day one, maximizing user comfort. The primary path connects to park entry points, and functions like a track for children to run, providing additional play value.

Colorful play mounds offer open-ended play value for all ages, including imaginative/fantasy play, exploratory or sensory play, and mastery/constructive play.

The playground equipment and surfacing were carefully designed to take into account long term maintenance and operations considerations. The improvements include a total of $1.6 million investment for the community of Cobbs Creek.

Climbing ropes, in-ground steppers, colorful play mounds, spinners, and a continuous outer loop all provide endless opportunity for enjoyment.

A ribbon cutting ceremony drew hundreds of visitors, local leaders, and politicians for a joyful celebration of this new neighborhood asset. Mayor Jim Kenney remarked “Every neighborhood, no matter their zipcode, deserves high quality accessible parks. And finally this neighborhood is getting the attention it needs.”

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney said “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 final project is a transformative public space that is rooted in its community.