Mayor Domenic J. Sarno Patrick J. Sullivan, Executive Director of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management, and more City staff toured the construction of a new culvert at Main Greeting Road in Forest Park. This work is made possible by a $3 million grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts thanks to the Baker-Polito Administration to replace the original 1854 culvert.
Mayor Sarno stated, “Culverts play a crucial role in the survival of ecosystems, and the repairs taking place in Forest Park will protect Swan Pond and the surrounding habitat. Forest Park is a tremendous natural resource within our city and this project is vital as main Greeting Road is the gateway into this wonderful park. Completion of this project will protect critical environmental resources while ensuring that park patrons can safely access the park for active and passive recreational opportunities. Viewing this work today illustrates the need for the new culvert and the magnitude of the project. I’m thrilled the project is on time and the road is scheduled to reopen for early November.”
Patrick Sullivan said, “The Swan Pond Project is proceeding as planned even with wet weather this spring and the recent summer flash thunderstorms. This is an extensive project that has required meticulous engineering and permitting to protect the ecosystems in Forest Park. Also, the volume of water that empties into Swan Pond and Meadowbrook Ravine from the X and surrounding streets had to be controlled during this phase of construction — not an easy task. We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation during this construction period. It has been an inconvenience not to use the Sumner Avenue entrance; however, through the efforts of many we have enjoyed another successful summer season at the park."
J.L. Raymaakers & Sons construction staff have recovered two porcelain license plates, one dating back to 1912, and a glass beer bottle from Springfield Brewers, also dating back to the early 1900s. These artifacts are both pictured and will be preserved.
