Supporting East Cambridge Planning Team's Letter in Favor of Boston-Cambridge Riverwalk Construction at Science Park Project.  

POR 2026-62 FIRST IN COUNCIL March 23, 2026 City of Cambridge COUNCILLOR ZUSY COUNCILLOR FLAHERTY COUNCILLOR NOLAN WHEREAS: The MA Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR), MassDOT, the Museum of Science and over 30 environmental, walking and biking groups have been working on a proposal to create a Boston- Cambridge Riverwalk Construction at Science Park for many years; and WHEREAS: This visionary idea to physically connect Boston and Cambridge with an engaging river walkway connecting the loop of the Paul Dudley White Bike Path has been percolating for decades; and WHEREAS: It would spur economic development on both sides of the river while providing a unique experience and benefiting the river’s ecology; and WHEREAS: The proposed project would improve the safety and mobility of residents and visitors as they walk, run and bike along the riverfront without needing to traverse on the Charles River Dam Road, a main thoroughfare with heavy and frequent motor vehicle traffic; and WHEREAS: A 2023 feasibility study led by the Museum of Science and funded by a $209,427 grant from the Federal Economic Development Administration has proved it possible; and WHEREAS: This MassDOT project #614025 requires further funding to take it to a 25% Design stage which would include, but not be limited to a site investigation, alternative analysis, robust public outreach and engagement activities, development of conceptual designs, cost estimates, and advancement of a preferred alternative; and WHEREAS: DCR now seeks a $3 million Federal earmark for this, through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Economic Development Initiatives account in the FY2027 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill; now therefore be it ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record in support of funding this Boston-Cambridge Riverwalk Construction at Science Park Project; and be it further

ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, U.S. Senator Edward Markey, U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch, and U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley, and all Massachusetts Representatives. In City Council March 23, 2026. Adopted as Amended by Substitution by a yea and nay vote:- Yeas 9; Nays 0; Absent 0.- Attest:- Paula M. Crane, Interim City Clerk A true copy; ATTEST:- Paula M. Crane Interim City Clerk