To the neighborhood, this is our park; it does need renewed attention by Ellie Spring

I read with interest both Judge Dolan’s recent post on Pope John Paul II Park and the response by Maria Lyons. I have some differences of opinion with the judge, with all due respect, and am in accord with Maria. To the neighborhood, this is our park, whether or not we take advantage of the other sections of the linear park along the Neponset. As members of the Neponset Greenway Council we look at all the parkland along the Neponset to fulfill the vision of linking Boston Harbor to the Blue Hills. Read more

People amenities would enhance the natural attractions of PJPII Park by James Dolan
om Lower Mills to The Estuary at Port Norfolk. An esplanade is defined as a park that serves as a promenade along a shore, and the opportunity now exists for one in Dorchester with the clearing of land bordering the river in Port Norfolk.

In a very thoughtful response to my recent article on Pope John Paul II Park, the science teacher Mary Lyons pointed out that the reservation was designed to be a “passive park” reflecting the natural state of the riverfront estuary but modified to allow limited recreational use. If limited use means discouraging visitors, it’s working. If there is a balance to be struck between the park’s ecosystems and the public, the public is losing so far. Read More