Anyone can take pride in the aesthetics of a place, be it a store, a theater, or an eatery, but if nobody comes, what lasting satisfaction can one have? Rich Cedrone does not need to pose such an inquiry regarding Marconi Plaza, 2700 S. Broad St., as the 19-acre gem receives ample adulation for its looks and growing legacy as a recreational haven, with residents’ regard leading to its designation as South Philly’s top park.
“We’re happy that it’s well-used because more use leads to a stronger neighborhood with less crime to worry about,” Cedrone, the Friends of Marconi Plaza resident, said of the victorious expanse. “We’re excited for the future, too, because there are some great things in store.”
The inhabitant of the 2700 block of South Iseminger Street, already thrilled to have a seasonal worker to address the space’s maintenance needs, to host two Love Your Park celebrations, and to hold well-received movie nights that the City of Philadelphia has commended, yearns for the eventual addition of more lighting through the Stadium Casino LLC overseers, an identity as a live music provider, and the implementation this spring of a farmers’ market. Also the president of the South Philadelphia Communities Civic Association, he greatly anticipates the endowment of that entity, along with two other civic bodies, with funds from a community benefits agreement.
“Simply put, we want the park to thrive and for people to have plenty of opportunities to enjoy great programming and chances to build friendships,” Cedrone said of the space that last year oversaw National Night Out’s opening ceremony.
The proud Marconi denizen believes in gradual yet effective changes for the green haunt and noted further modification plans are on schedule. Confessing to being a big dreamer, he hopes that the Parks & Recreation Department will one day erect a building there to offer sports contests and gatherings for older adults.
“The key is to grab kids early so that they know what to avoid,” Cedrone, who wished to thank the public and his peers, said. “A place like Marconi Plaza is a great spot to get that understanding.”
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park looked shimmering in second, while Columbus Square Park showed its bark in third. — J.M.
