Pennsylvania House Democratic Leader, Joanna McClinton, announced on April 22 that $4.5 million was approved to invest in upgrades to Francis J. Myers Rec Center in Southwest Philadelphia.
The grant was awarded through the state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program and will be used to invest in:
- Environmental remediation to the site.
- Significant improvements to the roof, exterior masonry and building envelope.
- New windows and doors.
- Updated plumbing, mechanical systems, and electrical, including fire alarm and fire protection.
- Increased building accessibility, including an elevator.
These new updates to the Francis J Myers Rec Center will create a safer, more accessible, and visually appealing space for families in the southwest community.
The Rec Center is located at S. 58th Street and Kingsessing Avenue.
Francis John Myers (December 18, 1901 – July 5, 1956) was a former US Senator representing Pennsylvania. He was also a teacher, lawyer, and Democratic Party politician. He grew up in the 54oo Block of Cedar Avenue. He represented most of West Philadelphia and Southwest Philadelphia in the United States House of Representatives from 1939 to 1945 and represented Pennsylvania in the United States Senate for one term from 1945 to 1951. He was Senate Majority Whip from 1949 to 1951. He died of complications from Leukemia at the age of 54.
