Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson (Second District) today announced that the application to serve on the City of Philadelphia’s Parks and Recreation Commission (PaRC) is now available.
City Council will accept applications beginning today and ending on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 11:59 pm EST.
“Public spaces increase the quality of community life and the mental and physical well-being of our citizens,” Council President Johnson (Second District) said. “They are particularly important for our young people. If you want to make a positive impact on our City, I encourage you to apply to serve on the Parks and Recreation Commission. Our city government is stronger when everyone’s voices are heard.”
The Parks and Recreation Commission was created in 2008 with the purpose of providing guidance, expertise, and support to the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department for the benefit of all Philadelphians.
The Parks and Recreation Commission consists of 15 members, nine of whom are appointed by the Mayor from nominations made by City Council and six of whom serve “ex officio,” including the President of City Council and the Executive Director of the City Planning Commission, the Water Commissioner, the Streets Commissioner, the Public Property Commissioner, and the Parks and Recreation Commissioner.
“As Chair of the Committee on Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs, I’m proud of the role our parks, recreation spaces, and cultural institutions play in our communities, and I’m excited about the progress still ahead,” said Councilmember Anthony Phillips (9th District). “This Commission is an opportunity to continue building on that work with people who care deeply about their neighborhoods. I look forward to working alongside residents who are ready to contribute and help shape the future of these spaces across Philadelphia.”
Councilmember Cindy Bass (8th District) said: “As Vice Chair of City Council’s Committee on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs, I see every day how important our parks and recreation spaces are to families across the 8th District and throughout Philadelphia.” She continued, “From neighborhood playgrounds to larger green spaces, these places bring people together and support healthier, stronger communities. I encourage residents to apply and help ensure our parks reflect the needs and priorities of the communities they serve.”
Details about the application process can be found here: www.phlcouncil.com/parc
The application can be found online at https://forms.office.com/g/xrBRbknjJz
Paper applications can be mailed to City Council Chief Clerk’s Office, Attn: Elizabeth McCollum, Chief Clerk, Room 402, Philadelphia City Hall, 1400 JFK Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
The applications must be postmarked by Monday, May 4, 2026, to be accepted. If applicants want to drop off applications at the Clerk’s office, they must do so by 5:00 pm on Wednesday, May 6 EST.
