Dear Members and Friends:Due to the heat emergency, Fenway Cares food distributions and deliveries are canceled for 7/17. The MGB Community Care Van clinic will still take place at Morville House, 100 Norway Street from 2-5 p.m., so please drop in for your blood pressure and blood sugar screening. Learn more at: Community Care Van | Mass General Brigham Regular food distributions and deliveries resume 7/31.
Need a heat break? If you would like a sweet frozen treat this week, head to Symphony Park at 39 Edgerly Road on Thursday from 2-4 p.m., where members of Northeastern University’s City and Community Engagement will be sharing frozen lemonade. Information below:
Hazardous Weather Conditions This week, once again, the weather is the news. This Sunday through Tuesday Boston is under an excessive heat alert– expecting temperatures in the high 90s, combined with high humidity.
Please check on those near you who are vulnerable, such as elderly or those without air conditioning. Stay hydrated, and take precautions to avoid overheating. If you live in a hot space, make sure to get to a cooling center to bring your core temp down to normal, this is a serious issue for many people throughout Boston.Here are some web links with info and resources for dealing with the excessive heat:
Places to keep cool – check out this page for information on Boston Centers for Youth & Families cooling centers; Pools and Tot Sprays map; State owned pools; Cooling Resources Map
Northeastern University is setting up Community Heat Breaks: when the city declares a heat emergency, stop by Carter Field or Forsyth St on campus to cool down. In partnership with the Climate Justice and Sustainability Hub, NEU is putting misters out and water at the Forsyth St location. At certain locations, they’ll have cool treats from Del’s Lemonade available. Follow @sustainablenu for the most up to date information.
39 Edgerly Road – Ariadne is a New Jersey-based musician who plays with a variety of different tones to shape her sound. Her influences include Stevie Wonder, Yebba, and Erykah Badu. Ariadne’s sound is contemporary R&B and neo-soul; her first single will be released this summer.. (see flyer)
Wednesday, July 17, 3:30 p.m., Fenway Cares Food Distribution and Healthcare (see Ongoing). Food for those in need, healthcare options, volunteer opportunities.
Wednesday, July 17, 6:30 p.m.Swingin’ in Ramler Park (rain date 7/24) – Ron Reid’s Liberty Quartet (see flyer) Ramler Park, 130 Peterborough Street
Thanks to Berklee, City of Boston, Fenway Civic Association for this great annual event at Ramler! Bring a blanket, lawn chair, picnic, friend, and have a spectacular swingin’ time with us, look forward to seeing you there! *Rain Date* WE ARE WATCHING THE WEATHER and will report via email blast as well as Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RamlerParkBoston/ and website if postponing due to weather.
Thursday, July 18, 2-4 p.m., NEU Community Heat Break at Symphony Park
The event will last between 2 and 4pm. Del’s Frozen Lemonade will be handing out free sweet treats! Make sure you stop by.
39 Edgerly Road – This series is presented by the Fenway Civic Association and the Friends of Symphony Park in collaboration with Berklee College of Music. The concerts are free and open to the public. Fair weather only. (see flyer)
Wednesdays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. June and July, FreeTai Chi
Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road. Free beginning Tai Chi Classes, taught by Sifu Huan Zhang.
Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution
Next date: 7/17 – at 2 locations:
West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)
East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
Thursdays through August 29, 10-11 a.m. Chair Yoga at Symphony Park
39 Edgerly Road – Free Chair Yoga class led by certified instructor, Michelle. Classes are sponsored by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, and the Boston Public Health Commission.
Red Sox concert season is underway. The Fenway Park Neighborhood Concert Committee is reviewing concert mitigation and impact reports. If you have comments to forward, please write to fenwaycivic@aol.com and we will make sure they are shared with the committee.
THE WEEK AHEAD
Saturday-Sunday, July 6, 7 p.m., and July 7, 1-5 p.m., Kaji Aso Studio presents TANABATA Celebration 2024 – two events – two locations – two days – Art, Music & Poetry, and Japanese Cultural Performances. Kaji Aso – Tanabata 2024
• TANABATA 2024 | Kaji Aso Studio
Tuesdays, starts 7/9 – through 7/30, 6:00 p.m., Sunset Concerts at Symphony Park
This series is presented by the Fenway Civic Association and the Friends of Symphony Park in collaboration with Berklee College of Music. The concerts are free and open to the public. Fair weather only.
This is a Mass Department of Transportation virtual meeting, to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed project. Meeting attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and offer comments. This project will have significant consequences for the Charlesgate portion of the Muddy River.
ONGOING
Sundays through October 13, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Charlesgate Farmer’s Market
The Muddy Water Initiative hosts a farmers market featuring local farms, bakers, chefs and vendors for fresh produce, seafood, meat, chicken, and eggs, prepared and cooked foods. Located under the Bowker Overpass at Commonwealth Avenue between Charlesgate East and Charlesgate West.
Wednesdays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. June and July, FreeTai Chi
Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road. Free beginning Tai Chi Classes, taught by Sifu Huan Zhang.
Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution
Next date: 7/17 – at 2 locations:
West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)
East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
TChair Yoga with Michelle in Symphony Park, 39 Edgerly Road. Repeats each Thursday until August 29. Participate in a free fitness class offered by a certified instructor. Classes are sponsored by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, Blu
e Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, and the Boston Public Health Commission.
Thanks for attending The Annual FCA Rose Garden Picnic last Tuesday. We are so grateful to our park partners, business community donors, volunteers, neighbors and our elected officials who support this event, and to all who attended to make the evening so special.
Celebrate Juneteenth on Wednesday, and at many events throughout the week.
This week we’ll have the first of two important development meetings centering on the West Fens- a new proposal for housing at 112-114 Queensberry (this Tues 6/18), and in July, an ongoing discussion on a tower proposal at 2 Charlesgate West (date changed to Monday 7/1), abutting the Back Bay Fens. Your input is highly valued, important, and meaningful in shaping our neighborhood. Please see details below in the Development section.
July is full of music as Kaji Aso Studiohosts a Two-day Star Festival of music (and art) on 7/6 and 7/7; the Sunset Concert Series at Symphony Park begins on 7/9; and the ever fabulous Swingin’ in the Fens returns to Ramler Park on 7/17.
THE WEEK AHEAD
Tuesday, June 18, 5-7:30 p.m.; this project scheduled for 5:45 p.m. – Boston Civic Design Commission Design Committee – 2 Charlesgate West meeting link
BCDC meeting to discuss the public realm impacts of major projects currently being reviewed by the BPDA, this meeting is from the DESIGN perspective. Commission meetings are open to the public.
Tuesday, June 18, 6-8 p.m., BDPA virtual meeting on 112-114 Queensberry (details in DEVELOPMENT section). A 6-story housing development.
The MFA is hosting an open house Juneteenth | Museum of Fine Arts Boston; and local colleges are hosting many events as well. Celebrate our history and find what’s moving us all ahead on this important holiday.
Wednesday, June 19 at 9:30-10:30 a.m., Tai Chi at Symphony Park (see ONGOING)
Wednesday, June 19 at 3:30 p.m. ‘til done., Fenway Cares Food Distributions (and MGH/MGB clinic 2-5 p.m. at Morville House) (see ONGOING)
Thursday, June 20, 10-11 a.m., Chair Yoga at Symphony Park (see ONGOING)
ONGOING
June is Pride Month, check out the City’s Pride page with links to celebrations, events, and LGBTQ+ community resources throughout the month!
Wednesdays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. June and July (no class on July 3rd), FreeTai Chi
Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road. Free beginning Tai Chi Classes, taught by Sifu Huan Zhang.
Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution
Next date: 6/19 – at 2 locations:
West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)
East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
Thursdays – Park Fitness: Chair Yoga with Michelle in Symphony Park, 39 Edgerly Road. Repeats each Thursday until August 29. Participate in a free fitness class offered by a certified instructor. Classes are sponsored by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, and the Boston Public Health Commission.
Sunday, June 23, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Charlesgate Farmer’s Market Opening Day
The market will be held on Sundays, 11a.m.-2 p.m., June 23 – October 13
The Muddy Water Initiative will host a farmers market at Charlesgate Park featuring local farms, bakers, chefs and vendors such as Dick’s Market Garden for fresh produce, Captain Madden’s Seafood and Cape Ann Fresh Catch for fresh fish, Top Shelf Cookies, Azuluna Foods for meat, chicken, and eggs, and prepared and cooked foods from Samosa Man and Dumpling Daughter. About 30 vendors are expected.
Located under the Bowker Overpass at Commonwealth Avenue between Charlesgate East and Charlesgate West with easy access from the Fenway and Kenmore Square.
The Grand Opening will feature performers from Berklee and other festivities!
Tuesday, June 25, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.,Fenway Safety Walkfollow the link for full details and to RSVP. A great opportunity to join Councilor Durkan, Senator Brownsberger, and the Department of Conservation and Recreation for a safe streets neighborhood walk-around. Stroll the state-owned roadways in the Fenway to identify needed safety improvements and share resident feedback.
DATE CHANGED TO Thursday, July 1st, Virtual Meeting – BPDA hosts Joint IAG and public meeting, 2 Charlesgate West (large residential and commercial project requesting exemptions) (details in DEVELOPMENT section).
Saturday-Sunday, July 6-7 Kaji Aso Studio presents TANABATA Celebration 2024 – two events – two locations – two days – Art, Music & Poetry, and Japanese Cultural Performances. Kaji Aso – Tanabata 2024
Tuesdays, 7/9 – 7/30, Sunset Concerts at Symphony Park – This series is presented by the Fenway Civic Association and the Friends of Symphony Park in collaboration with Berklee College of Music. The concerts are free and open to the public. Fair weather only.
Wednesday, July 17, 6:30 p.m. Swinging in Ramler Park (rain date 7/24) – Ron Reid’s Liberty Quartet (more details to come)
DEVELOPMENTS – BPDA ACTIVE PROJECTS
Tuesday, June 18, 6-8 p.m., BDPA virtual meeting on 112-114 Queensberry
Tuesday, June 18, 6-8 p.m.,BDPA virtual meeting on 112-114 Queensberry.
(former location of single-story Queensberry laundry building)
How to Participate Register in advance for this meeting: bit.ly/4aFGznH
Fenway CDC proposes to develop the 112-114 Queensberry site into a building six stories above grade and one story partially below grade; with 24 units of housing affordable (in perpetuity) to individuals and households at or below 30% and 60% of area median income. A mix of studios and one-bedrooms for single people, couples, and small families. No parking will be provided onsite. For full details on this project, check out the BDPA site here.
The rendering (above) shows the lower level entrance from Ipswich Street.
Monday, July 1, 6-8:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting – Joint IAG and public meeting,2 Charlesgate West (large residential and commercial project)
The Proposed Project consists of approximately 290,000 square feet. Proposal to include 406 residential units, 2,860 SF retail at the Ipswich Street level and indoor bike parking for 408 bikes. The Proponent is proposing the Project to provide 61 units (15%) of on site affordable housing units exceeding the City of Boston’s applicable IDP requirements. There is no onsite parking planned for the Project. A new publicly accessible open stair and enclosed public elevator is proposed, joining Ipswich Street with Boylston Street and providing access to the Back Bay Fens.
MEETINGINFORMATION:
This is a virtual joint Impact Advisory Group (IAG) and public meeting for the proposed 2 Charlesgate West project located in the Fenway neighborhood of Boston. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Draft Project Impact Report (DPIR) that was filed and its potential impacts. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the IAG and public.
How to Participate
Please register for the meeting using the following Zoom link: bit.ly/3KbHilw
Below: a shot from the public presentation shows a rendering from Boylston Street side
COMMENTARY
Below: An unauthorized rendering from a local architect imagines the tower (in white) in a wider context (from height and massing as presented in first meeting):
The April 4th public review meeting was attended by over 50 people, many of whom voiced concerns on the project not being compliant with the established zoning and Parks Ordinances, potential detrimental effects from the height and massing including increased wind at critical pedestrian routes, shadows on parklands, increased stress on existing neighborhood transportation and congestion problems, and deterioration of Parks Ordinance protections established for this very reason. A separate Boston Design Commission meeting had commissioners asking for improvements.
The Annual FCA Rose Garden Picnic is this Tuesday at 6pm – weather looks great, park is looking fabulous, we can’t wait to see you at the Back Bay Fens, outside the Kelleher Rose Garden. Enjoy the food, music, flowers and friends who’ll be there!
Lots of activity in our parks this week: mid-week, stay fit with exercise classes at Symphony Park. On Friday, join Mayor Wu at the Neighborhood Coffee Hour at the Back Bay Fens Rose Garden (details below). And on Saturday, there’s an afternoon of Porchfest at various locations. Our neighborhood is truly a walkable feast!
There are two important development virtual meetings centering on the West Fens – a new proposal for housing at 112-114 Queensberry (Tues 6/18), and an ongoing discussion on a tower proposal at 2 Charlesgate (Thurs 6/27), abutting the Back Bay Fens. Your input is highly valued, important, and meaningful in shaping our neighborhood. Please see details below in the Development section.
THE WEEK AHEAD
Tuesday, June 11 6-8 p.m., FCA Rose Garden Picnic
Music, food, flowers, friends – spring at the Rose Garden… magical! See flyer.
Wednesday, June 12 at 9:30-10:30 a.m., Tai Chi at Symphony Park (see ONGOING)
Thursday, June 6, 10-11 a.m., Chair Yoga at Symphony Park (see ONGOING)
Friday, June 14, 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a..m., Mayor Wu’s Coffee Hour, Back Bay Fens (near Kelleher Rose Garden) across from 73 PARK DRIVE
Mayor Wu’s Neighborhood Coffee Hour is a unique opportunity to speak directly with the Mayor and staff from City departments about open space in our neighborhood. Dunkin’ will be on-site to fuel the local community with freshly brewed Iced Coffee and Donuts. Dunkin’ will brew up even more fun with gift card giveaways. Residents at each event will also be eligible to win a raffle prize from Dunkin’. In addition, each family in attendance will receive a free flowering plant provided by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, while supplies last. Fresh fruit will be provided by Star Market. Additional support by City Express. Full details here: Neighborhood Coffee Hours – Fenway / Kenmore | Boston.gov
Saturday, June 15, noon – 4:30 p.m., Fenway Porchfest
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
Thursdays – Park Fitness: Chair Yoga with Michelle in Symphony Park, 39 Edgerly Road. Repeats each Thursday until August 29. Participate in a free fitness class offered by a certified instructor. Classesare sponsored by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, and the Boston Public Health Commission.
Tuesday, June 18, 6-8 p.m., BDPA virtual meeting on 112-114 Queensberry (details in DEVELOPMENT section). 6-story housing
Sunday, June 23, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Charlesgate Farmer’s Market Opening Day
The market will be held on Sundays, 11a.m.-2 p.m., June 23 – October 13
The Muddy Water Initiative will host a farmers market at Charlesgate Park featuring local farms, bakers, chefs and vendors such as Dick’s Market Garden for fresh produce, Captain Madden’s Seafood and Cape Ann Fresh Catch for fresh fish, Top Shelf Cookies, Azuluna Foods for meat, chicken, and eggs, and prepared and cooked foods from Samosa Man and Dumpling Daughter. About 30 vendors are expected.
Located under the Bowker Overpass at Commonwealth Avenue between Charlesgate East and Charlesgate West with easy access from the Fenway and Kenmore Square.
The Grand Opening will feature performers from Berklee and other festivities!
Tuesday, June 25, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Fenway Safety Walkfollow the link for full details and to RSVP. A great opportunity to join Councilor Durkan, Senator Brownsberger, and the Department of Conservation and Recreation for a safe streets neighborhood walk-around. Stroll the state-owned roadways in the Fenway to identify needed safety improvements and share resident feedback.
Thursday, June 27, Virtual Meeting – Joint IAG and public meeting, 2 Charlesgate West (large residential and commercial project requesting exemptions) (details in DEVELOPMENT section).
An update on the Back Bay Fens pathways project – from the City of Boston | Parks & Recreation Department
The plan is for a Spring 2025 construction start on the pathways project. Rosales + Partners have been hired to work on the new Evans Way Bridge, and will include community engagement. The team is continuing the construction documentation for the larger Back Bay Fens pathways, WWII and O’Reilly work in preparation for permitting with Boston Conservation Commission, Boston Landmarks Commission, Massachusetts Architectural Access Board, DCR and others as needed. Once there is a public meeting date, we’ll share it!
DEVELOPMENTS – BPDA ACTIVE PROJECTS
Tuesday, June 18, 6-8 p.m., BDPA virtual meeting on 112-114 Queensberry
Tuesday, June 18, 6-8 p.m.,BDPA virtual meeting on 112-114 Queensberry.
(former location of single-story Queensberry laundry building)
How to Participate Register in advance for this meeting: bit.ly/4aFGznH
Fenway CDC proposes to develop the 112-114 Queensberry site into a building six stories above grade and one story partially below grade; with 24 units of housing affordable (in perpetuity) to individuals and households at or below 30% and 60% of area median income. A mix of studios and one-bedrooms for single people, couples, and small families. No parking will be provided onsite. For full details on this project, check out the BDPA site here.
Thursday, June 27, 6-8:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting – Joint IAG and public meeting,2 Charlesgate West (large residential and commercial project)
The rendering (above) shows the lower level entrance from Ipswich Street.
The project description from the BPDA project page:
The Proposed Project consists of approximately 290,000 square feet. Proposal to include 406 residential units, 2,860 SF retail at the Ipswich Street level and indoor bike parking for 408 bikes. The Proponent is proposing the Project to provide 61 units (15%) of on site affordable housing units exceeding the City of Boston’s applicable IDP requirements. There is no onsite parking planned for the Project. A new publicly accessible open stair and enclosed public elevator is proposed, joining Ipswich Street with Boylston Street and providing access to the Back Bay Fens.
MEETINGINFORMATION:
This is a virtual joint Impact Advisory Group (IAG) and public meeting for the proposed 2 Charlesgate West project located in the Fenway neighborhood of Boston. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Draft Project Impact Report (DPIR) that was filed and its potential impacts. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the IAG and public.
How to Participate
Please register for the meeting using the following Zoom link: bit.ly/3KbHilw
Below: a shot from the public presentation shows a rendering from Boylston Street side
COMMENTARY
Below: An unauthorized rendering from a local architect imagines the tower (in white) in a wider context (from height and massing as presented in first meeting):
The April 4th public review meeting was attended by over 50 people, many of whom voiced concerns on the project not being compliant with the established zoning and Parks Ordinances, potential detrimental effects from the height and massing including increased wind at critical pedestrian routes, shadows on parklands, increased stress on existing neighborhood transportation and congestion problems, and deterioration of Parks Ordinance protections established for this very reason. A separate Boston Design Commission meeting had commissioners asking for improvements.
After last week’s historic trial, one hopes the country finds a peaceful way ahead as we get into election season.
At the FCA, we’re all about unity! We’ve got many ways to come together: feel great and get fit with outdoor exercise classes (see the flyers), get food & health services offered by Fenway Cares, chill out at ISG Free 1st Thursdays. Concerned about the preponderance of labs? Attend the City’s Life Sciences public safety meeting to ask questions, and get answers.
Next week, enjoy some flower gazing, music, food and fun at the Annual FCA Rose Garden Picnic. Want a one-on-one with the Mayor? Come to Mayor Wu’s coffee hour at the Back Bay Fens Rose Garden. And Fenway Porchfest is back!
Later in June, attend the grand opening of the Charlesgate Farmer’s Market; and join neighbors and officials for the Fenway Safety Walk, a safe streets neighborhood walk-around.
June is National Pride Month, and Boston has a lot to offer, check it out!
Looking forward to spending some quality time with you!
THE WEEK AHEAD
Wednesday, June 5 at 9:30-10:30 a.m., (first class!) Free Tai Chi at Symphony Park (Repeats each Wednesday in June & July *except July 3rd). Free beginning Tai Chi Classes, taught by Sifu Huan Zhang. See flyer for details
Wednesday, June 5, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution
(see ONGOING)
Thursday, June 6, 10-11 a.m., Chair Yoga at Symphony Park (see ONGOING)
Thursday, June 6, 6-8 p.m., Life Sciences Public Safety Meeting (in person)
105 West 1st Street, South Boston 02127
This is a public meeting in partnership with the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), Boston Fire Department, and Boston Emergency Medical Services to discuss the public safety protocols and regulatory responsibilities currently in place for the Boston Life Sciences industry. Paid parking available, or MBTA Broadway Station (red line) is close-by. You can submit questions in advance; the meeting will be recorded. For full details, check out Life Science Public Safety Public Meeting | Boston Planning & Development
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
Thursdays – Park Fitness: Chair Yoga with Michelle in Symphony Park, 39 Edgerly Road. Repeats each Thursday until August 29. Participate in a free fitness class offered by a certified instructor. Classesare sponsored by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, and the Boston Public Health Commission.
Sunday, June 23, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Charlesgate Farmer’s Market Opening Day
The market will be held on Sundays, 11a.m.-2 p.m., June 23 – October 13
The Muddy Water Initiative will host a farmers market at Charlesgate Park featuring local farms, bakers, chefs and vendors such as Dick’s Market Garden for fresh produce, Captain Madden’s Seafood and Cape Ann Fresh Catch for fresh fish, Top Shelf Cookies, Azuluna Foods for meat, chicken, and eggs, and prepared and cooked foods from Samosa Man and Dumpling Daughter. About 30 vendors are expected.
Located under the Bowker Overpass at Commonwealth Avenue between Charlesgate East and Charlesgate West with easy access from the Fenway and Kenmore Square.
The Grand Opening will feature performers from Berklee and other festivities!
Tuesday, June 25, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Fenway Safety Walkfollow the link for full details and to RSVP. A great opportunity to join Councilor Durkan, Senator Brownsberger, and the Department of Conservation and Recreation for a safe streets neighborhood walk-around. Stroll the state-owned roadways in the Fenway to identify needed safety improvements and share resident feedback.
An update on the Back Bay Fens pathways project – from the City of Boston | Parks & Recreation Department
The plan is for a Spring 2025 construction start on the pathways project. Rosales + Partners have been hired to work on the new Evans Way Bridge, and will include community engagement. The team is continuing the construction documentation for the larger Back Bay Fens pathways, WWII and O’Reilly work in preparation for permitting with Boston Conservation Commission, Boston Landmarks Commission, Massachusetts Architectural Access Board, DCR and others as needed. Once there is a public meeting date, we’ll share it!
Thanks to everyone who came out to bird with us this year! Birders viewed 27 different species in the Back Bay Fens, including black and white warblers, northern parula, and black throated green warblers. For the full list, visit: https://ebird.org/checklist/S173916949
Spring is here! We’re offering a few nature based events for the community, please join us for a Bird Walk on Sunday May 12th, UrbanTree Talk on Thursday, May 16th,and the Annual Flower Share on Saturday, May 18th.
The FCA Flowershare for members is Saturday, May 18th.
Thanks to all who have renewed their membership, and welcome new members!
We are delighted that Northeastern University will continue this event as a longstanding tradition and partnership that provides Fenway residents flowers to beautify window boxes and gardens. See below for details.
FCA’s “Year of the Tree” initiative.
Tree #1 has been planted! Behind the scenes, we’re working to get grants for street tree plantings and care, and support Boston’s Urban Forest Plan. Join us to hear more on Thursday, May 16th (see below).
CHAIR YOGA started May 9th, repeats each Thursday through August 29, 10-11 a.m. Symphony Park. Full details below in ONGOING section
UPCOMING
Sunday, May 12 at 7:30 a.m., Birds of the Back Bay Fens, Guided Bird Walk with Nature Man Mike, Back Bay Fens – Meet at the Japanese Bell outside the Kelleher Rose Garden (by the footbridge across from the Museum of Fine Arts).
Thrill to the sight and sound of the array of birds that inhabit the Back Bay Fens each spring. All levels welcome. Bring binoculars (flyer attached)
Monday, May 13, 06:00 PM – 08:00 PM, Wentworth Institute of Technology IMP 2024-2034, Public Meeting | Virtual Meeting
The BPDA is hosting a virtual Public Meeting to discuss the recently filed 2024-2034 Wentworth Institute of Technology Institutional Master Plan (“IMP”). The purpose of the meeting is to provide an overview of the IMP, the potential projects listed within the IMP, and discuss potential impacts and mitigation. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.
How to Participate Please register for the meeting using the following Zoom link: bit.ly/3vomgMU
Tuesday, May 14 – Neighborhood Night at Fenway Park
FCA and other civic groups will be honored on the field before the first pitch! We might have a few tickets to distribute… watch your email for details!
Thursday, May 16, 6-8 p.m. Boston’s Urban Forestry Program – free talk “Looking Up to Trees: Growing Boston’s Urban Forestry Program” at Steve Heck Room, Berklee College of Music, 1140 Boylston Street, Boston
The FCA is coordinating with Boston’s Urban Forestry division to present an in-person talk about street trees and the city’s Urban Forestry Plan. Bring a friend! (flyer attached)
Saturday, May 18 – 2024 FCA/NEU Annual Flower Share
For those who registered, pick up at your requested location and time:
West Fenway: 9:30-11:00 a.m., Exterior of the Fenway Victory Gardens, 1200 Boylston Street
East Fenway: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Exterior of Fenway Center, 68 St. Stephen Street
ONGOING
Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution
Next date: 5/22 – at 2 locations:
West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)
East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road
Thursdays – Park Fitness: Chair Yoga with Michelle – 10-11:00 a.m. Symphony Park, 39 Edgerly Road. Repeats each Thursday until August 29. Participate in a free fitness class offered by a certified instructor. Classes are sponsored by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, and the Boston Public Health Commission.
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
On Wednesday, April 24th, we planted a beautiful sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) in the Back Bay Fens, Fenway Victory Gardens central lawn.
Hooray for #1! Long may you thrive!
THANK YOU to those who made it possible:
Thank you, FCA members – your contributions fund this initiative.
And many thanks to the people and organizations who ‘got it done’!
The Boston Parks and Recreation Department’s Forestry team and Tree Warden Max Ford-Diamond
Jack Schleifer from the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and arborist Norm Helie
The Fenway Victory Gardens
The FCA is coordinating with Boston’s Urban Forestry division to present an in-person talk about street trees and the city’s Urban Forestry plan in May. We’ll also continue working with partners to provide street tree care and work days in Ramler Park. Dates to be announced soon!
Fenway Civic Association 