~ Boston, MA - The Chittick Schoolyard has undergone a transformation, reflecting the city's commitment to creating a greener and more family-friendly environment for all residents. Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her gratitude to the Parks and Recreation team for their efforts in improving the space and the community members for their stewardship.

The newly renovated schoolyard boasts colorful play equipment, an ADA-accessible entrance, a running track, and a multi-use court. The design of the space also prioritizes sustainability with features such as absorbent pavers and a porous basketball court to prevent flooding, 19 new shade trees for heat mitigation, and an outdoor classroom for educational opportunities.

This project also includes the transfer of a parcel to the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, closing an existing open space equity gap in Hyde Park. This ensures that more residents are within a 10-minute walking distance to a city park.

Interim Commissioner Liza Meyer of Boston Parks and Recreation stated that creating vibrant, accessible, and resilient spaces like the new Chittick Schoolyard is at the heart of their mission. She thanked their partners and the Chittick School community for their collaboration in bringing this project to life. Meyer believes that this schoolyard will provide students and residents with a safe and welcoming place to play, learn, and connect with nature.

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The design of the Chittick Schoolyard was done by Warner Larson Landscape Architects, with construction completed by Metro Equipment. The project had a budget of $1.5 million in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds and was supported by early design resources from The Trust for Public Land (TPL).

Thadine Brown, Director of the Community Preservation Act Office, expressed her excitement about celebrating the new Chittick Schoolyard. She stated that the Community Preservation Committee is dedicated to supporting recreational spaces for all ages and promoting health and wellness within the community. Brown added that CPA funds are designed to improve access and equity in neighborhoods, aligning with Boston's vision for the future.

Through the Community Schoolyard® initiative, TPL has seen similar projects in cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Atlanta have a positive impact on mental and physical well-being for students and residents. These spaces foster safe outdoor connections and play an essential role in improving educational outcomes.

Jodi Valenta, TPL's Massachusetts State Program Director, highlighted the unique partnership between TPL, Boston Parks and Recreation Department, and Boston Public Schools in maximizing green space in a neighborhood that lacked access to the outdoors. She stated that this project connects more people to the benefits of nature.

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The design and development of the Chittick Schoolyard were driven by community feedback and collaboration with Boston Public Schools, TPL, community members, and local partners. This ensured a community-focused vision for the schoolyard that enhances both park equity and climate resilience. In 2019, fifth-grade students at Chittick School participated in design workshops to determine new schoolyard features. Many of their suggestions were incorporated into the final design, including shaded seating and a kickball field.

Principal Michelle Burnett of Chittick Elementary School expressed her excitement about opening the new playground for students and the community. She believes that this playground is more than just a place to play; it's an environment where students can grow, build friendships, make lasting memories, and have fun. The playground has been specially designed to meet the needs of all students while promoting inclusivity and accessibility.

Valerie Almeida, founder and co-chair of Rosebery/Ruskindale Road Neighborhood Association, also expressed her gratitude for this project. She stated that their neighbors love it, and soon seniors will be walking on the track too. Almeida thanked everyone who helped make this dream a reality for their school and community.

For more information about the Chittick Schoolyard project or other park improvements in Boston, please contact the Boston Parks and Recreation Department at (617) 635-4505. Stay updated by signing up for their email list and following their social media channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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