December 24, 2024
Monday’s news that Mayor Wu has signed a partnership agreement with Boston Unity Sports Partners drew immediate criticism from the leading opponents’ group, dubbed the Franklin Park Defenders.
Renee Stacey Welch, a Jamaica Plain resident and a member of the group that has has filed a lawsuit in an attempt to block the White Stadium project, said she was “completely disappointed. It’s a sad day for the community because it seems like the voice of the community isn’t heard.”
She added: “We can renovate White Stadium on our own for $20 million, it has been shown, and not have to have a partner but still get all of the great things for the kids and community. This is irresponsible when we’re talking about also raising our property taxes. The Franklin Park Defenders will continue to fight and push this lawsuit that is still pending in court.”
A different reaction was heard from the leadership of the Franklin Park Coalition (FPC), a non-profit that has been largely supportive of the city’s plan. It hailed Mayor Wu for her “vision, commitment, and courage,” in a statement from Rickie Thompson, the coalition’s president.
Thompson noted that the city and soccer franchise “have engaged community members through dozens of meetings” over the last two years.
“Many of the changes FPC advocated for have been incorporated directly as binding commitments in the lease documents,” said Thompson. “FPC is pleased with the project’s progress, but our advocacy on behalf of park users will continue.”
City Councillor-at-Large Erin Murphy called the agreement a “significant milestone,” but she wants a “briefing” from the mayor on “critical questions and concerns that remain unanswered.
“This project has the potential to deliver long-term benefits to Boston residents, but only if we prioritize equity, sustainability, and robust public input at every step of the process,” Murphy said.
