Some locals like the plan
for a new athletic super site at 10th and Bigler streets, but
others have differing opinions.
The worn-down athletic field at 10th and
Bigler streets will undergo a makeover - like it or not.
While many residents feel something should be done at the site,
some voiced their concerns about how the proposed changes might
impact their neighborhood during a meeting Monday.
Typically dubbed the Southern-Bok field, it is one of four
sites being revamped through the School District of
Philadelphia's Capital Improvement Plan. With an estimated cost
of more than $6 million, the super site will include a synthetic
football field with a rubber track and two full-size baseball
fields that will overlap two practice football fields. In
addition, the area will house a soccer field, new grandstand and
scoreboard. Two new parking lots also are part of the package.
During the meeting at the Stella Maris School hall, nearly
100 people viewed the site plan while listening to environmental
remediation efforts that will occur on the land. The purpose of
the gathering was to bring together district officials and the
community one last time to address any questions or concerns,
Tony Greco, president of the South Philadelphia
Communities Civic Association, said.
Commenting on the field, Greco said, "I think it's great. It's a
no-brainer. If we don't do it now with the funding in place,
it'll never get done."
The area can expect short-term disruptions, but long-term
improvements, he added.
"It will be a hassle for the quality of life for the next year
or so, but when it's said and done, it's really going to be
worth it," he said.
South
Philadelphia Communities Civic Association
