by Navy Yard
July 23, 2026
On Thursday, July 2, community members, employees, residents, and visitors came together to celebrate the opening of Pier 1 Park, the Navy Yard’s sixth public park. Despite temperatures soaring above 100 degrees, guests stopped by throughout the afternoon to enjoy the waterfront, explore the park’s newest feature, and celebrate another milestone in the Navy Yard’s growing network of public spaces.
Situated along the Delaware River, Pier 1 Park offers another welcoming destination for recreation, relaxation, and community gathering while expanding public access to the Navy Yard’s waterfront. Created through the rehabilitation and revitalization of historic Pier 1, the park transforms a former industrial site into a vibrant public space. Designed by Urban Engineers and Ground Reconsidered, constructed by Commerce Construction, and funded by Moran Towing, the project reflects the continued investment in creating welcoming public spaces throughout the Navy Yard.
The celebration gave visitors their first opportunity to experience the park together. Guests enjoyed lunch from Mr. Jerk King Caribbean Feast, cooled off with sweet treats from Curbside Creamery Ice Cream Truck, and took in the waterfront views while spending time with coworkers, neighbors, and friends.
A special highlight of the celebration was the debut of the park’s Little Free Library. Community members helped stock the shelves by donating gently used books, creating a shared resource that visitors of all ages can enjoy throughout the year. The growing collection reflects the Navy Yard’s commitment to creating spaces that encourage community, learning, and connection beyond the workday.
Guests also picked up Navy Yard bookmarks and stickers to commemorate the opening and explored the park’s new seating areas and waterfront pathways.
The opening of Pier 1 Park marks another exciting chapter in the continued transformation of the Navy Yard into a vibrant mixed-use community where people can work, live, and enjoy thoughtfully designed public spaces. From waterfront parks to community events and neighborhood amenities, each new addition helps create more opportunities for people to gather and experience all the Navy Yard has to offer.
discoverthe Navy Yard
Keep an eye on our events calendar for future programming and community activities taking place throughout the Navy Yard’s parks and public spaces.