The Charlestown waterfront along the Mystic River remains largely hidden and inaccessible - a stark contrast to the east side which has seen significant investments in the Harborwalk and other waterfront parks. Through a robust community outreach process, which is kicking off with an Open House Event on June 14th, the Mystic River Watershed Association will create a shared-vision to connect people to the Lower Mystic River.
“Currently the Lower Mystic between Charlestown and Somerville has a lot of “potential” and “opportunity” – code words for areas that are vacant, underutilized, and/or cut-off from the water,” said Amber Christoffersen, Mystic Greenways Director and project lead. “While there are some challenges, this area is about to experience growth unlike any other place in Greater Boston. And now is the time make sure that this development improves liveability and connects people the waterfront, both locally and regionally.”
The project is funded by the Barr Foundation through its Boston Waterfront initiative. Additionally, the project is building off of the work of Climate Ready Boston, addressing flooding and heat island impacts, while providing the co-benefits of public amenities. The project area, located between Sullivan Square and the Little Mystic Channel and Tobin Bridge, lacks contiguous waterfront access and walking and biking routes that connect to regional greenway networks. Furthermore, the low-lying lands of Sullivan Square and the Autoport are susceptible to coastal and inland flooding in the near-term.
SHARE YOUR IDEAS
We are kicking-off this effort with an Open House to share designs ideas from Climate Ready Boston and to ask you what kind of waterfront access, open spaces and walking/biking improvements you want to see in your neighbourhood. Join us for drinks, snacks and lively conversation dockside!
What: Open House Kick-Off Event
When: Thursday, June 14 | 5:00 - 8:00 pm
Where: Schrafft's Center and Docks, 529 Main St, Charlestown
