McLaughlin Park slated for renovation

The McLaughlin Park, which is located between Parker Hill and Fisher avenues on top of Parker Hill, is slated for a $333,000 renovation, according to Boston Parks and Recreation Department (BPRD) project manager Allison Perlman. Construction is expected to start in spring 2015.

BPRD was scheduled to hold a community meeting on the renovation April 24 at New England Baptist Hospital (NEBH), but instead held a walk-through at the park, as requested by constituents, according to spokesperson Marchelle Jacques-Yarde. The Gazette was not notified of the change and could not cover the walk-through, for which Jacques-Yarde apologized. She said BPRD did flier the area and notified constituents about the change.

Perlman said only the upper terrace at the park will be affected by the renovation. She said topics of concern discussed during the walk-through included drainage issues, vegetation management, pathway repairs and Ben’s Circular Tower disrepair.

Ben’s Circular Tower is a memorial for Ben Beland, according to the Boston Art Commission website. Beland, who died from cancer, was a child from Mission Hill who enjoyed playing at the park. The tower, which has large stones arranged in a circle and is designed to look like a castle, was created by artist Mags Harries.

BPRD will hold a community meeting May 27 at NEBH to discuss input from the walk-through and present park redesign proposals.

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