Bill > S584

This bill modernizes the governance of parks in East Boston managed by the Massachusetts Port Authority (MPA) by establishing a new Project Advisory Committee (PAC) and clarifying the development and management of three park phases. The bill defines the specific parks as Piers Park (Phases I, II, and III), Bremen Street Park, the Al Festa Little League field, and the Narrow Gauge Extension. The PAC will consist of 21 members (7 each appointed by the local representative, senator, and city councilor) who are East Boston residents representing diverse demographics. These committee members will have significant oversight, including approving park designs, reviewing park operations, and entering into a contract with the MPA that specifies maintenance and operational standards. The bill outlines the MPA's responsibilities for funding and maintaining the parks, with provisions for penalties if maintenance standards are not met. It also specifies that the parks will be developed in three phases, with Phase I already existing, Phase II to be commenced immediately, and Phase III potentially being leased to a nonprofit entity. The legislation ensures public input, maintains the parks as public spaces, and provides a structured approach to their ongoing development and management.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S584