May 14, 2026 - Philadelphia, PA
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Jessica Shirley and local officials highlight the success of an Act 2 Land Recycling Program project at Bridesburg Riverfront Park, now known as the Robert A. Borski Jr. Park, where a heavy industrial site was transformed into a vibrant public park and environmentally restored riverfront community destination. DEP's technical review was performed by staff funded through theHazardous Sites Cleanup Act (HSCA)."The Robert A. Borski Jr. Park represents a powerful example of transforming Pennsylvania's industrial legacy into a community asset and a safe space for residents to enjoy," said Secretary Shirley. "For decades, this site along the Delaware River in Philadelphia was a heavily used industrial property - first for oil manufacturing, then for concrete and asphalt production. Thanks to HSCA funded DEP staff from the Land Recycling Program, that same 10-acre property is being redeveloped into a beautiful, vibrant public park, turning a once underutilized and contaminated space into an important asset."Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed a one-time $20 million transfer in the 2026-27 budget proposal to support HSCA, which will help continue the critical state-led site investigations and remediation projects, and begin the conversation that finding a permanent funding source is critical to the environment and human health. Speakers in Order:Kris Shiffer, DEP Director of Bureau of Environmental Cleanup and BrownfieldsStephanie Phillips, Executive Director Riverfront North PartnershipPalak Raval-Nelson, Ph.D., City of Philadelphia Health CommissionerState Rep. Joe HohensteinJessica Shirley, Secretary PA Dept. of Environmental Protection
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