BOSTON (WHDH) - A new master plan outlines the future of Boston Common including some new expansions and additions to the popular space.
Preview renderings of the plan for America’s oldest public park show the popular playground will expand and a soccer field will be added. There will also be an enclosed dog park.
Other recommendations for the Common include:
- Re-designing of the Frog Pond including the addition of splash features
- Adding more restrooms, trees and free events
- Expanding the visitor’s center
- Adding an accessible entrance at the Shaw 54th Memorial
- Making improvements for pedestrians at the Charles Street entrance from the Public Garden
- Renovating the mayor’s walk pathway
“We listened to the people,” said Liz Vizza, president of the Friends of the Public Garden, via both surveys and pop-up events throughout the city to gather feedback.
“What the team has presented as a first, 300-some page draft is really weaving together all of the possibilities in every nook and cranny of this space,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. “This is not only a critical space for us to be together, this is a space for protection, an important part of our green infrastructure and resiliency across the city.”
The Boston Common Master Plan said on its website that “The planning process incorporated community input to create a roadmap that prioritizes accessibility, resiliency, and inclusivity while also honoring the park’s history and operational needs.”
Parks and Recreation Commissioner Ryan Woods also spoke, saying there will be a better use of space, and that park users would find more flexibility and “enhanced visitor orientation and interpretation.”
The organization said it encourages people to explore the plans and submit feedback, sharing their priorities for early action items during the public comment period that ends on November 30.
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