PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Lawrence E. Murphy Recreation Center in South Philadelphia officially reopened on May 20, unveiling a $7.5 million transformation that modernized the community space with state-of-the-art athletic facilities. Funded through Philadelphia’s Rebuild Program and bolstered by a $750,000 contribution from Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, the project was celebrated with a grand reopening event featuring Eagles legend Ron Jaworski and local youth sports teams.
The celebration culminated in a signature Philadelphia “Tush Push” and touchdown ribbon cutting, with kids from neighborhood sports leagues taking center stage.
“Murphy Rec has always been a cornerstone for youth and families in South Philly—and now, with this $7.5 million investment, this community has the top-tier fields and facilities they deserve,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Whether it’s soccer, football, baseball, or a pick-up game on a summer night, this investment is about keeping our young people active, safe, and supported. And today, we’re celebrating in signature Philly style – with a Tush Push and a touchdown in South Philadelphia.”
The renovated recreation center, named for a beloved recreation department employee who dedicated 37 years of service, now includes synthetic turf athletic fields designed for football, soccer, baseball, and softball; new basketball courts; enhanced lighting; and upgraded outdoor amenities such as bleachers, fencing, and sidewalks.
Councilmember Mark Squilla expressed personal joy at the reopening. “I am thrilled to finally cut the ribbon for the new and improved Murphy Rec! I spent my childhood playing on this field and basketball court with my friends, as did my four children and their friends. I am so pleased my grandchildren and their friends will be able to play in a state-of-the-art facility.”
The renovations were shaped by community input, ensuring that the facility meets the needs of local residents. The Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association (EPYSA) contributed a soccer mini-pitch to encourage youth participation in the sport.
“It’s our mission to grow the game of soccer, and it’s our privilege to work with the City of Philadelphia to build these mini-pitches and create new safe spaces to play,” said Chris Branscome, CEO, Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer Association. “All children deserve to have well maintained and safe fields to play on. These fields will provide for great fun, fitness, and friendships.”
Craig Clark, General Manager of Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, reinforced the community focus of the project. “At Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, we believe in the power of investing in our community’s future,” he said. “These important renovations will provide a safe and enriching space for South Philly’s children to thrive, learn, and grow. We’re excited about the positive impact Murphy Rec will continue to have on our neighbors for generations to come.”
The project marks the second Rebuild-renovated facility to reopen this spring, following the revitalized Rivera Recreation Center and Mann Older Adult Center in Fairhill. With its new features and expanded capabilities, the Murphy Recreation Center is positioned to serve as a vital hub for youth sports and community gatherings for years to come.
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