White Stadium demolition, facelift plans OK'd by Parks Commission
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The stands of White Stadium. Photo: John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images
The Boston Parks Commission approved plans to redevelop White Stadium in Franklin Park into a professional soccer stadium.
Why it matters: Boston Public Schools and Boston Unity, which owns the professional women's soccer team slated to begin play in 2026, are one step closer to turning the dilapidated space into a destination.
- But the process has devolved into a fight over whether to cede public parks for student athletes to private interests.
Catch up fast: The redevelopment plan would make White Stadium the home of Boston's professional women's soccer team, bringing renovated fields and seats.
- But residents and some parents say the proposal has moved forward with little to no community input and questions left unanswered about transportation and private events.
- The plan would also mean football players wouldn't be allowed to practice on the field.
State of play: The commissioners voted unanimously in support of the demolition and construction plans, but only as long as certain conditions are met.
- Boston Unity and BPS must sign the lease before demolition begins.
- City officials must hold a hearing on how trees will be protected before they can get the approved permits.
- Officials also need to update the commission on the demolition and construction management plans before construction begins.
What they're saying: "Just speak to the kids and see what they want. … It's a benefit to them. They need it," said Nas Rivera, a BPS alum and track coach.
- "It's very important for the city because we don't have good facilities."
Priscilla Andrade, a BPS parent and local business owner, said, "the way this project is propelling as it goes along, it's harder and harder to support because so many questions remain unanswered."
- Those questions revolve around increased noise, trash, transit and traffic, "including policing once there's a private partnership and private property at play," Andrade said.
What's next: The proposal still must secure final approvals, including permit approvals after the hearing on protecting trees surrounding the stadium.
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