Harrisburg Proposes ‘Racial Equity’ Plan to Rebuild Pools With $13 Million in American Rescue Plan Funds

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Mayor Eric Papenfuse announced a plan on Oct. 14 to completely rebuild the city’s two aging public swimming pools, with $13 million in American Rescue Plan funds. “Our pools were built in the aftermath of the racial unrest in Harrisburg in 1968,” Papenfuse said during a press conference at the Hall Manor Pool. “It was a recommendation of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission that we build these facilities as a matter of racial equity and social justice.” The pools have served the city well over the past 50 years but they are beyond their useful life, the mayor said. They leak and it’s a struggle to keep them in operation. “The American Rescue Plan funds are a one-time fund designed to help people who need help the most,” Papenfuse said. “This is a perfect use for those funds in part because this is an opportunity for youth recreation and family activities.” …