Last summer, we told you about a plan to completely renovate Ralph Brooks Park, located at 20th & Tasker. This park, which is currently is pretty rough shape, is most easily identified by the large mural listing names of people in the neighborhood who have been impacted by violence. It’s an upsetting but very real indication of the trouble that Point Breeze has faced in the last couple of decades.

The park today

Plans for the park renovation include a new basketball court, a new play area for neighborhood kids, an urban garden, a business kiosk, new seating for kids and parents, greenery, lighting, and a new mural. The cost for all of these improvements will be about $500K. A year ago, they were about halfway there. Hopefully, by the time this weekend is over, they’ll have the majority of the funds they need to get the project moving, thanks to a fundraiser taking place at Union Transfer.

Project rendering

On Friday, June 20th, Kurt Vile & The Violators, The Districts, and The Tontons will play a fundraiser show at Union Transfer, in partnership with the Make the World Better Foundation. According to R5 Productions, every dollar from ticket sales and bar sales will be going toward Ralph Brooks Park. Just as importantly, Philadelphia Eagle Connor Barwin has agreed to match whatever is raised at Union Transfer with money out of his own pocket to support the cause. If the show sells out and those in attendance do a good amount of drinking, the money raised for the park could approach six figures. Amazing.

Haven’t been to Union Transfer yet? Looking for something to do on Friday night? Love supporting good causes? Look no further, think no more. We’ll see you at the show.