Isaacson, Saval announce $80,500 grant for Fishtown District

HARRISBURG, June 13 – The Fishtown District has been awarded an $80,500 grant through the Department of Community and Economic Development for the Front Street and Cecil B. Moore Plaza portion of the Vision Plan, according to state Rep. Mary Isaacson and state Sen. Nikil Saval, both D-Phila. 

According to the Fishtown Kensington Area Business Improvement District, the new community plaza will be a public meeting space highlighting, amplifying and expanding the existing cultural, creative and commercial personality of the neighborhood, as well as connecting the Kensington portion of the district with the commercial corridor. 

“I am proud to throw my support behind this important neighborhood endeavor,” Isaacson said. “This project is the result of many hours of planning and lays out a vision for our community that provides so much opportunity for the residents who live here, connecting us to the commercial corridor that is important to our everyday lives.” 

"Vibrant public spaces cultivate community engagement, foster collective safety and support local businesses,” Saval said. “Together, the Fishtown and Kensington communities have forged a comprehensive and coherent vision for residents and visitors alike to better access and enjoy all the region has to offer. These communities deserve deep investment from their government, and it’s been my honor to ensure that they received it!" 

Fishtown Kensington Area Business Improvement District Executive Director Marc D. Collazzo expressed his gratitude to the lawmakers for their help in securing the funding. 

“The Fishtown Kensington Area Business Improvement District thanks Senator Nikil Saval and Representative Mary Isaacson for their partnership, collaboration and zealous advocacy in our receipt of this generous Local Share Account grant award,” Collazzo said. “We look forward to beginning our work together to create and activate a dynamic, thriving public plaza at the corner of Front Street and Cecil B. Moore Avenue to not only connect the Fishtown/Kensington neighborhoods, but also to provide a beautiful, programmed outdoor space for all to enjoy.”