See the new man-made island coming to the Schuylkill River

A man-made circular island will soon be built in the Schuylkill River .

Why it matters: The public art installation will become a permanent river access point at Bartram's Garden, offering 360-degree views of the Schuylkill and city skyline.

Driving the news: Construction on the 75-foot-wide FloatLab is slated to begin in the fall, per a news release .

• The project is a collaboration between Mural Arts and the West Philadelphia garden.
• J. Meejin Yoon and Höweler + Yoon Architecture are designing the floating deck, which will include a pool at the center.

🛶 Plus: The FloatLab will serve as a community hub, environmental education space, stage, gallery, fishing spot, and kayak launch.

💍 Thought bubble: It could also become the next go-to for engagement proposals and photoshoots.

What's next: It's expected to open in summer 2026.