Terry Gillen and Julian Abele Jr. cuts the ribbon on Philadelphia's newest public park

Posted by Haley Loram
Named in honor of the architect Julian Abele, Philadelphia’s first new public park in over a decade began as a Collaborative project to reclaim a vacant lot in 2005.  The project brought together a task force of long-time residents and newcomers, who became instrumental in advocating for the park. 

Julian Abele, a resident of the neighborhood, was a prominent African-American architect best-known for his work on the Philadelpia Art Museum and the Duke University campus.  That space is now a simple, verdant space at 21st and Montrose. The community’s next project will be a mural to commemorate Abele.

Julian Abele Park seen from the SE corner of Montrose and 21st

A broad coalition of Philadelphians worked to bring this park to life. Congratulations to you all!