Boston Officials Broke Ground on New Family Park

The city has begun construction on a $1.35 million green space at Norwell and Park streets.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Stacks of paving stones and a yellow hard hat at a construction site, with urban row houses visible in the background. — Boston officials have begun construction on the new West of Washington Family Park, a $1.35 million project transforming four vacant city lots. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe neighborhood-led projects are the best way to improve local public spaces?

City officials and Boston residents have officially broken ground on the West of Washington Family Park. The new public space transforms four previously vacant lots into a dedicated green area for neighborhood families.

Why it matters

The park project fulfills a decade-long effort by local residents to secure dedicated outdoor space for their families. It serves as a focal point for community development in the West of Washington neighborhood.

The city of Boston allocated $1.35 million in funding for the project through the Community Preservation Act and its Streets Cabinet. This investment converts four vacant lots into usable green space for the community.

The players

Travis Lee

He is the developer who reached an agreement with the city of Boston to transfer the land for the park.

Boston Streets Cabinet

This municipal agency oversaw the funding and planning process for the new park development.

The details

City officials and neighborhood members collaborated through a series of design meetings to shape the layout of the space. The city secured the necessary land last year through a transfer agreement with developer Travis Lee.

Project planning for the park began in July 2016.
The city acquired the four vacant lots in 2025.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the project took place on September 19, 2026.
Construction activities commenced on the site on September 21, 2026.
Completion of the park is expected in 2027.

Political Context

This project utilizes funding frameworks established by the Community Preservation Act to finance local public infrastructure. While the park has broad support, opposition in similar urban projects often centers on the allocation of limited municipal funds versus alternative community needs.

Residents in the West of Washington neighborhood will gain access to a new outdoor recreational space designed specifically for family use. The development removes four long-vacant lots, potentially improving local property aesthetics and public safety.

The takeaway

The transformation of vacant lots into public parks illustrates the impact of long-term community organizing on city planning. Residents can influence municipal land use by participating in design meetings to ensure projects reflect their neighborhood needs.