Chelsea City and Green Roots dedicate new neighborhood park to longtime volunteer James “Bear” Burke

Chelsea City and the nonprofit Green Roots opened a new neighborhood park on Earth Day and dedicated it to James “Bear” Burke, a longtime local volunteer who coached youth sports and supported families in the area.

Organizers said the park was the result of a multiyear partnership between Green Roots and the city after a previously underused lot and an adjacent abandoned parcel were transformed into public green space. An event host noted the project faced setbacks when construction crews discovered the property was contaminated, and that Green Roots secured multiple grants while the city also provided funding and operational support.

"This neighborhood doesn't have a lot of green space. So, any little green space we can add makes a big, big difference," the host said, recounting the project's five-year history and the community-led design process.

Nancy Burke, speaking for the family, read a tribute describing James’s long record of service. "He was the epitome of Chelsea, a true Chelsea legend," she said, noting he worked for the city's Department of Public Works, coached youth baseball, helped start local leagues and advised Explorer Post 109.

Representatives from Green Roots thanked volunteers, neighborhood residents, the Boston Society of Landscape Architects and an anonymous donor for their roles in the project. "Every element of this park was created with community in mind," said Jasmine, a member of Green Roots’ climate justice team, urging neighbors to use and care for the space.

Organizers also announced a community mural to be painted on the underside of a shade canopy and invited residents to take part. The ceremony concluded with a group photograph and a call of "Bear park on three."