Bellmon celebrates $4 million in funding for Lawncrest Recreation Center’s new pool

Philadelphia House Delegation June 8, 2026 | 4:07 PM

PHILADELPHIA, June 8 – On Saturday, state Rep. Anthony Bellmon, state Sen. Sharif Street, PA House Appropriations Chair Jordan Harris, all D-Phila., and Councilmember Anthony Phillips held a news conference where they presented a $4 million check to the Lawncrest Recreation Center.

Bellmon and Street helped secure this $4 million in state funding that will be used to construct a new pool at the Lawncrest Recreation Center. Construction has begun.

“Lawncrest Recreation Center is a centerpiece of the Lawncrest community, providing a safe space for children to grow, families to gather, and neighbors to build connections,” Bellmon said. “This pool is another reason for members of our community to gather at the rec center during the summers to cool off, stay active and interact with neighbors. I was proud to secure this funding, and as construction is currently underway, I look forward to seeing the finished product.”

“Investing in safe places for children and families to gather is of the utmost importance, especially in the summer when school is not in session,” Street said. “I am proud to work with Representative Bellmon to provide support for the pillars of our community like Lawncrest Rec Center. This funding is about more than a pool, it is about showing folks that they are deserving of beautiful spaces to enjoy themselves. I will continue to work for them and fight for those spaces to exist.”

In addition to the $4 million for the pool, Phillips presented a $100,000 check for new spray grounds at the rec center.

“When government at every level works together, we deliver real results for our community. I’m grateful to State Representative Anthony Bellmon for partnering to make this important investment in our neighborhood,” Phillips said. “Our parks are more than green spaces—they are gathering places for families, safe places for children to play, and vital assets that strengthen the fabric of our community. Together, we’re ensuring our neighbors have the quality public spaces they deserve.”

Harris, who serves as chair of the PA House Appropriations Committee, noted the importance of this funding.

“Everyone deserves access to high-quality green space and safe public facilities in their community, regardless of socioeconomic status,” Harris said. “This $4 million investment in the Lawncrest Recreation Center pool and clubhouse facility will help deliver a modern, welcoming space where young people can be safe, families can gather and neighbors can build stronger connections. I am proud to stand with Representative Bellmon in supporting these upgrades and renovations, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have for families and young people for years to come.”

The lawmakers were joined by Susan Slawson, Parks & Rec commissioner; Phil Grutzmacher, president, Lawncrest Civic Association; Heather Miller, 35th Ward leader; Steve Schmidt, Lawncrest Rec. Center leader; and Anthony Luker, senior regional director, Office of Gov. Shapiro.

Details for the project include the following.

Pool Replacement Scope:

1. Pool Basin & Equipment

2. Full concrete deck replacement

a. Utilities sized & pavement designed for future sprayground construction

3. Pool deck shower relocation

4. Low fence & gate separating pool deck from deck area in front of clubhouse

5. Retaining Wall Repair/Replacement

6. Retaining Wall Ornamental Fence with Integral Lighting

7. Coordination with CreativePHL for treatment of existing Percent for Art Sculpture

Pool Features:

ADA ramp