Date: October 29, 2013
Honor Our Heritage. Protect Open Space. Renovate Existing Buildings.
We have a legal and moral obligation to Save Ward Park in Marlborough. It honors our forefathers and has served as a public park since 1925. We have a duty to protect Ward Park so that future generations can enjoy the same health benefits, environmental quality, historical pride, and cultural value as past generations.
Marlborough has underutilized buildings that can be renovated such as the Meeting House on Pleasant Street. In recent years developers have restored buildings and improved neighborhoods: Renaissance Lofts, Design Pak Lofts, Saint Mary’s Condos, the old fire station/courthouse on Main Street. We do not need a new building on this precious, protected Open Space in Marlborough. We can restore and renovate existing buildings in the city.
Projected costs for a new building are at least $7+ million. What will be the costs if the center is fully staffed as designed?
In addition to environmental and economic considerations, we need to address the overarching social concerns of community representation and environmental justice. Do we want our youth, seniors, and underserved residents to compete for Open Space and Recreation Land?
We can do better. Let’s form a committee with all stakeholders. Let’s figure out how to have a senior center and save the park at the same time.
Jen Boudrie, Founder, Green Marlborough
Info at www.SaveWardPark.com, www.GreenMarlborough.org