The main topic of discussion at last week’s NEWRA Parks and Open Spaces Committee meeting held at the Nazzaro Community Center was public access space along the Waterfront and North End.
Following a tour of the entire area with residents and Deputy Director Patrice Todisco of the Boston Harbor Association, the group is raising some questions and offered a few suggestions relating to public access to many areas not known to residents and the general public.
The group pointed out that signage and general information regarding public places are lacking in the area. They also indicated that the area is poorly lit.
The group also noted that for the most part, residents and tourists are of the opinion that the area along the Waterfront is private property.
Committee members Anne Pistorio (chair) and David Kubiak who were part of the walk around claimed that there are many, many places along the North End/Waterfront that are spectacular viewing areas that most people don’t even known exist.
While the committee is planning to have the Boston Harbor Association, the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) and elected officials attend a NEWRA meeting where a presentation of neighborhood issues and concerns can be placed on the table for discussion.
Boston City Councilor Sal LaMattina told the Review he is aware of the Waterfront public access issue and will attend a NEWRA meeting to work with residents and the City to coordinate a plan of action to open-up the area to the public.
The next committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 7 at 7pm in the Nazzaro Community Center, 30 North Bennet Street.