New renovated stadium fosters community connection ! GAME CHANGER !!

Good morning, and Happy Holidays. My name is Hatim Jean-Louis, also known as Coach H, and I’m here on behalf of Boston Public Schools Cross Country to highlight the transformative impact of investing in modernized track and field facilities.

First and foremost, improving safety and access is at the heart of this initiative. Upgraded facilities are more than just an aesthetic improvement—they directly prevent injuries and allow student-athletes to train and compete at a higher level. These enhancements ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to safely pursue excellence in athletics.

But the impact goes beyond the physical improvements. The renovated stadium fosters community connection, creating a sense of belonging and pride among student-athletes and their families. White Stadium and the Playstead area have become a home for me over the past decade, and I’ve seen firsthand how these spaces bring people together. They’re not just fields or tracks—they’re arenas where dreams are built, resilience is forged, and memories are created.

I want to take a moment to thank Mayor Michelle Wu and her incredible staff for their dedication to making these projects a reality. Their vision and commitment to the youth of Boston are truly inspiring. I also want to express my gratitude to the individuals who will be maintaining this facility and ensuring its daily operations run smoothly. Your hard work behind the scenes is what allows these spaces to thrive, and I look forward to building a positive and collaborative relationship with you. Together, we can ensure that White Stadium remains a vibrant and welcoming hub for generations to come.

This past fall, the BPS Cross Country program—made up of students from Charlestown, Boston Latin Academy, Dearborn, Snowden, John D. O’Bryant, and Boston Arts Academy—made history. Under the leadership of BPS alumni Coach Nasir Rivera and Coach Michael Ward, the team began the season unranked and achieved remarkable success: the girls’ team finished 3rd, and the boys’ team finished 6th at the state meet. These achievements are proof of what’s possible when we invest in our students and their environments.

To the student-athletes and their families, let’s continue building on this momentum. My motto has always been: Dreams Are Tangible Goals. Together, we can ensure that these dreams become a reality. Thank you.

Let me know if you'd like further refinements!

White Stadium Public Meeting: Economic Development & Community Benefits Nov 29th at 6pm

WHITE STADIUM

The City envisions revitalizing White Stadium as the centerpiece of BPS athletics and a hub for community.

White Stadium was constructed in 1945 in the Playstead area of Franklin Park. Since then, it has served as a home for many Boston athletes and community members. Unfortunately, today the stadium is in a state of disrepair and in need of revitalization. It does not meet current codes or accessibility requirements. It also lacks the spaces and amenities needed to be a citywide resource for BPS athletics.

The City and BPS envision revitalizing White Stadium as a centerpiece of BPS athletics. We are planning a significant investment in the stadium and athletic facilities.

In 2023, we launched an updated needs assessment of the facility. The assessment found that many spaces need to be improved and expanded. Improvements will include an expanded staff office, a modernized press box, improved locker rooms, and an 8-lane track.

We will also add new programs. These may include a strength and conditioning suite, a gymnasium, an indoor turf field, a community space, and a student resource space. The FY24 Capital Plan proposes $10.5 million to fund the design.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS

Our second Community Engagement session will focus on Supplier Diversity and Community Benefits.

• Join us virtually from 6 - 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 

  Register Here: Zoom Meeting Link

A Reimagined White Stadium Community Meeting Today 6-8pm (ZOOM)

A Reimagined White Stadium Community Meeting Today. The proponent will be sharing their proposal for the space and we will ask for community feedback in reviewing their proposal. The City's vision is to ensure this remains a BPS Athletic Hub and a treasure for the local community, and we would appreciate your support and feedback during the meeting today from 6-8pm. https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81429973735#success