Franklin Park projects advance — tennis courts, bear dens and circuit‑drive safety measures

At the May 11 Ways & Means hearing, Parks officials provided an update on Franklin Park work that councilors have pressed the department to accelerate. Luis Perez, the park’s executive director, said the tennis courts project will expand two existing courts into five lighted courts with upgraded spectator seating and accessibility improvements, expected to finish in late summer or early fall 2026.

The department also reported near completion of phase one of the Bear Dens safety and masonry work after the city reacquired the structures from the state; future phases will restore more ironwork and masonry. Parks described a multi-year sequence of capital work that includes restoring the overlook ruins and coordinating construction timing to limit impacts on park users.

On access and safety, Parks outlined a circuit‑drive traffic‑calming project scheduled to begin construction in late 2026 that will install raised speed tables designed to accommodate MBTA buses, additional crosswalks and rapid‑flashing beacons at key pedestrian crossings. The department said these measures are intended to reduce speeds and improve pedestrian safety without precluding park access; staff will evaluate post‑installation speed data and consider parking configurations to balance safety and event needs.

Parks said they are coordinating with the Tenants and Operators committee, the Zoo and other stakeholders to align construction phasing and maintenance trust investments. Councilors pressed for attention to late‑night noise and access for major events and asked Parks to explore expanded parking where feasible to reduce curb congestion during high‑attendance events.