City of Boston 

Mayor Martin J. Walsh 

 

January 21, 2021 

 
Dear Community,  
 
Over the last several months, we have had many conversations about the plans for Melnea 
Cass Boulevard. Based on the concerns about the impact of those plans on our shared 
environmental, social and transportation goals, the City of Boston is announcing the 
cancellation of the current design for the Boulevard’s reconstruction.   
 
This is not the end but, instead, a new beginning for this project. We remain committed to 
advancing with urgency the aspirations that we share for this corridor -- improving safety 
for all who use this road; increasing resilience in an area prone to flooding and extreme 
heat; and, enhancing this ribbon of open space that curls through the heart of our city.   
 
We know that we will only deliver a new plan we are all proud of through a process we are 
all engaged in. In the months ahead, we look forward to designing that process with you. 
We are confident that this process will realize a final design that reflects the aspirations 
and needs of the communities abutting the corridor. ​And, while a primary goal of this 
project will be to strengthen the urban forest in this area, we are also committed to a 
public tree hearing as part of the project, if that plan results in the removal of even a single 
healthy tree. 
 
We are mindful that, 52 years ago this week, a collaboration of residents advocated to stop 
a highway project along this corridor and instead lay the foundation for today’s Boulevard. 
We are also mindful that the namesake for this Boulevard organized our city to fight 
against racism, to empower people to vote, and to expand opportunity for those most in 
need. We appreciate all that you have done to honor that legacy, and we look forward to 
taking the next steps with you.   
 
Sincerely, 
 
 

Chris Cook Dr. Karilyn Crockett Chris Osgood 

Chief of Environment Chief of Equity Chief of Streets