Phila. plans to convert pier to green space

A former eyesore on the Delaware River is being converted into a beautiful greenspace.  The goal is to make it a model to convert over piers into recreation spaces on the riverfront.

The over six-million dollar transformation of the former Pier 11 into the Race Street Pier will take the rotting structure and turn into a recreation lovers dream. 

Thomas Corcoran, head of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation said when the project is complete in the spring of next year it will offer numerous recreational activities.

“At the edge of the pier you have spectacular views north and south and seating areas,” said Corcoran of the pier that rises 14 feet high.  “There will also be a lawn area where we can have small performances and a circulation path of trails for people on bikes and skates so they can do whatever they want to do,” added Corcoran.

The pier was full of weeds and potholes and hadn’t been used for 40 years.  Corcoran says the goal is to transform other rotting piers along the river to offer similar recreational activies and in turn bring businesses to the riverfront to capitalize on the people using the recreational sites.