~ Boston, MA- The community of Roxbury gathered together to celebrate the completion of a $1.12 million renovation to Edna V. Bynoe Park. The park, located in the Orchard Gardens Housing Development, has been revitalized with new features including a splash pad, play equipment, and a shaded seating area.

Mayor Michelle Wu expressed her pride in the partnership between neighborhood leaders, family members, and community members that made this renovation possible. She stated that the park is now worthy of Ms. Edna Bynoe's legacy and will continue to foster connection and community for generations to come.

Edna Bynoe was a beloved community activist in Roxbury who played a crucial role in advocating for the revitalization of Orchard Gardens Housing Development. She also helped establish the Orchard Gardens Pilot School and served 33 years in the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance. In 2010, Mayor Thomas M. Menino and the Boston Parks Department dedicated Orchard Park in her honor, renaming it "Edna V. Bynoe Park."

The renovated park boasts key features such as a water play area, new children's play equipment with resilient safety surfacing, and renovated paths and fencing. It also includes new cafe tables and a shade shelter for visitors to enjoy.

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Parks Commissioner Ryan Woods expressed his excitement at seeing children enjoying the new play area and splash pad on a hot summer day like today. He stated that this major investment is a testament to honoring Edna Bynoe's legacy and community spirit.

The design for Edna Bynoe Playground was done by BSC Group while construction was completed by Sciaba Construction Corporation within the project's budget of $1,120,000. Community feedback collected during public meetings and surveys in spring 2021 drove the design and development process.

Kenzie Bok, Administrator of Boston Housing Authority (BHA), acknowledged Edna Bynoe's fierce advocacy for the residents of Orchard Gardens and her community throughout her lifetime. She also recognized the continued legacy of Edna's sister, Valerie Shelley, who carried on her work after her passing. Bok thanked the Bynoe family for sharing these remarkable women with the BHA community.

Lisa Hall, President of the Orchard Gardens Tenant Association, reminisced about the process of envisioning what the park could look like for their community. She expressed her satisfaction with how it turned out and stated that both Val and Edna would be proud.

For more information about Edna V. Bynoe Park, please contact the Boston Parks and Recreation Department at (617) 635-4505. Stay updated on news, events, and park improvements by signing up for their email list at bit.ly/Get-Parks-Emails and following their social media channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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