Good neighbors make good fences

In the current challenging economic climate, more than 60 civic-minded residents of Jamaica Plain and collaborating organizations have, once again, partnered to bring a needed improvement to the Emerald Necklace park system.

Through the “Partnerships Matching Funds Program” of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Con-servation and Recreation (DCR), we will be able to replace the deteriorating 10-foot- tall chain link fence at the Arboretum crosswalk median with a 4-foot-tall steel picket fence. This fence will enhance public safety by improving sightlines between motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists, and will be also be more visually appealing and in keeping with the historic character of the parkway.

The state (DCR) is contributing $2 for every dollar raised by the community.

This project is a shining example of neighborhood associations, local businesses, individuals and organi-zations collaborating towards a common goal. Partners include: Arboretum Park Conservancy, Arnold Arboretum, Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center, Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen Union Local No. 3, Emerald Necklace Conservancy, Faulkner Hospital, Ferris Wheels Bike Shop, Gazette Publications, Jamaica Hills Association, Jamaica Pond Association, James Hennigan Insurance Agency, Lawrence & Lillian Solomon Fund, Mt. Washington Bank Charitable Foundation, Zoo New England, Jamaica Pond Project, Arborway Coalition, City Councilors At-Large Stephen J. Murphy and John R. Connolly and City Councilor John Tobin. Although the names of all indi-vidual participants are too numerous to list, each will soon receive a letter thanking them for their generosity. With great appreciation…

Gerry Wright, Jamaica Pond Project
Sarah Freeman, Arborway Coalition
Jamaica Plain

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