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Committee tables naming of new JFK Boulevard pedestrian bridge for Andre Lopes pending ownership transfer and MOU review
Summary
The committee tabled a Mayoral request to name the new pedestrian bridge over John F. Kennedy Boulevard for Korean War veteran Andre Lopes after staff and councilors said the city has not yet accepted the bridge; members asked for a copy of the executed memorandum of understanding between the city and state.
The Special Committee on Memorials and Dedications on May 13 tabled a request from Mayor Mitchell to name the new pedestrian bridge over John F. Kennedy Boulevard the Andre Lopes Memorial Bridge, after Assistant City Solicitor Catherine Chukka explained the city’s authority depends on the bridge’s ownership status and an executed memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the city and the state.
Assistant City Solicitor Catherine Chukka said her understanding is that an MOU between the city and the state exists and that "upon the bridge's completion, the bridge does become a city owned asset, in which case it would be for the city to decide the name of the bridge. That's my understanding." She also confirmed the MOU had been executed but that the city had not yet accepted the completed bridge.
A committee member said the city has not accepted the bridge and cited a letter from the state delegation indicating the delegation intended to keep the existing name until the ownership transfer is complete; that councilor noted the committee may not have the authority to name the structure until the city formally accepts the asset.
Committee members asked the city solicitor's office to provide the committee with a copy of the executed MOU and any related documentation about easements or acceptance procedures. Councilor Moretz and other members requested prompt distribution of the document so members can review the legal terms.
The committee then approved a motion to table the naming request. The motion to table was made by Councilor Mora and seconded by Councilor Carney; it carried on a voice vote.
The item will return to committee when questions of ownership, the executed MOU and any outstanding easements are resolved and the city formally accepts the bridge.
