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Committee tables naming of pedestrian bridge for Andre Lopes pending review of executed MOU and city acceptance
Summary
The Special Committee on Memorials and Dedications of the City of New Bedford tabled May 13 a proposal to name the new pedestrian bridge over John F. Kennedy Boulevard the Andre Lopes Memorial Bridge pending clarification of an executed memorandum of understanding and city acceptance of the bridge.
The Special Committee on Memorials and Dedications of the City of New Bedford tabled May 13 a request to name the new pedestrian bridge over John F. Kennedy Boulevard the Andre Lopes Memorial Bridge, citing uncertainty about ownership and an outstanding memorandum of understanding.
The clerk read a communication from Mayor Mitchell proposing the name (item 8), which had been referred to the committee on Jan. 23, 2025. Assistant City Solicitor Catherine Chukka told the committee her understanding was that there is an executed memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the city and the state and that, "upon the bridge's completion, the bridge does become a city owned asset," after which the city would decide the name.
Several councilors said the city has not yet accepted the bridge and pointed to a separate letter from the state delegation indicating the delegation’s role in naming until city ownership is accepted. Councilor Morad said the item was "almost like cart before the horse," noting that without city acceptance the committee lacks authority to officially name the bridge. Councilor Kania asked the solicitor's office to provide the committee a copy of the executed MOU so members could confirm the legal status.
The committee first moved to receive and place the mayor’s communication on file; that motion was made by Councilor Mora and seconded by Councilor Chiquette and recorded in the transcript. Later in the meeting Councilor Mora moved to table the naming request; Councilor Carney seconded the motion to table and the committee approved the tabling by voice vote.
Assistant City Solicitor Chukka agreed to provide the committee with a copy of the executed MOU and city staff agreed to supply any relevant documentation about acceptance procedures and easements, as requested by council members.
The committee’s tabling preserves the committee’s and city council’s ability to act once the city’s legal ownership and any state agreements are clarified.
