Select Board names downtown pocket park 'Civic Plaza' after public hearing

The Westborough Select Board voted unanimously Tuesday to name the small pocket park between 32 and 34 West Main Street “Civic Plaza,” concluding a public hearing that drew two competing proposals and extensive public comment.

George Groszner, president of the Westborough Civic Club, urged the board to choose “Civic Plaza,” saying the name “highlights the space’s relationship to community life, public identity, and collective use” and reflects the club’s five decades of donations and service to the town. Mary Ellen Parker submitted a written nomination — read into the record by staff and later presented live — proposing “Parker Plaza” to honor her husband, retired Police Chief Glenn R. Parker, who served the town for 44 years and authored a local history book.

Marjorie Pierce of the Westborough Historical Commission argued in favor of Parker Plaza, noting Chief Parker’s long civic contributions and the site’s proximity to the original police entrance. Other residents and board members acknowledged both submissions, with some urging a separate memorial or plaque to recognize Chief Parker even if the board selected a non-personal name.

After deliberation the board moved to name the area Civic Plaza in accordance with the town’s naming policy; the motion was seconded and carried on a 5–0 roll-call vote. Board members said they will explore an on-site plaque or other memorial to acknowledge Chief Parker’s service without changing the selected name.

The vote follows prior Select Board action to solicit nominations under its naming policy and a public notice period. The board closed the public hearing immediately after the roll-call vote and directed staff to implement the naming in accordance with the policy and coordinate any commemorative recognition for Chief Parker.

What happens next: staff will follow the town’s naming policy to update signage and records and investigate options for a memorial plaque or bench honoring Chief Parker.