Revolution proposes $700M soccer stadium on Everett waterfront with extensive transit plans

In a pivotal City Council meeting held on April 28, 2025, Chelsea officials discussed the significant developments surrounding the proposed soccer stadium for the New England Revolution, set to rise on the Everett waterfront. The meeting, marked by a sense of optimism and urgency, highlighted the stadium's potential to transform the area, which has long been marred by industrial pollution and limited public access.

The proposed stadium, estimated to cost around $700 million, is seen as a catalyst for revitalization in a region historically dominated by heavy industry. The site, previously home to a decommissioned power plant, has been a source of environmental concern, with high rates of asthma and cancer reported in nearby communities due to years of pollution. The stadium project aims not only to bring professional soccer to the area but also to clean up the land and improve public access to the waterfront for the first time since 1897.

Key to the stadium's development is the lifting of the Designated Port Area (DPA) restrictions, which has been a complex legislative process. The DPA, one of the largest in Massachusetts, previously limited the use of waterfront land for anything other than industrial purposes. Recent legislation has successfully lifted these restrictions, contingent upon a community benefits agreement between the cities of Chelsea and Everett and the Kraft family, owners of the Revolution.

Traffic concerns were a major topic of discussion, with Chelsea officials emphasizing the need for a robust transit plan to accommodate the expected influx of visitors. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has been tasked with developing a comprehensive transportation strategy, which includes a new commuter rail stop, an extension of the Silver Line, and a water shuttle service. These initiatives aim to mitigate traffic congestion and ensure that the stadium is accessible without overwhelming local streets.

Despite the excitement surrounding the project, challenges remain. The recent cancellation of federal funding, which included a critical $50 million allocation for flood prevention in the area, has raised concerns about the project's financial viability. City officials are working diligently to address these funding gaps while ensuring that the environmental protections promised in the community benefits agreement are upheld.

As the meeting concluded, there was a palpable sense of hope among council members and residents alike. The stadium project represents not just a new venue for sports but a transformative opportunity for the community, promising improved infrastructure, environmental restoration, and renewed public access to the waterfront. With deadlines approaching for the community benefits agreement, the coming months will be crucial in determining the future of this ambitious project and its impact on Chelsea and the surrounding areas.