The City of Somerville regularly consults with the residents of Davis Square on long-term planning issues. Through dozens of Somerville by Design workshops and meetings, the Davis Square community has repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintaining the unique character of Davis Square. The life of Davis Square depends on its authenticity, diversity, and vibrancy.
We applaud these initiatives, but, according to the city and the city budget, they are planned for 10 plus years into the future.
The city acknowledges that Davis Square public spaces are in decline, but as of Fall 2018 there is:
Since 2013, the City has been working on a Davis Square neighborhood plan.
Beginning in 2009, Somerville residents and City planning staff engaged in a lively community planning process and created the “SomerVision: Somerville’s Comprehensive Plan 2010-2030.” This includes some 40 goals, 97 policies, and 445 distinct actions. Goals A-IV and C-VI set out a vision that could hardly be clearer:
IN 1984 and 1986 respectively, the City of Somerville redesigned the entire square as part of the design and construction of the MBTA Davis Square Station, which included the creation of its headhouse entrances, the street-level plaza (Status Park), Seven Hills Park, and the Community Path. At that same time, brick sidewalks and street trees were installed along College, Dover, Elm, Highland, and Holland Streets. These infrastructure changes were the catalyst for transforming the Square into the vibrant community and regional magnet that it has become.
We applaud these initiatives, but, according to the city and the city budget, they are planned for 10 plus years into the future.
The city acknowledges that Davis Square public spaces are in decline, but as of Fall 2018 there is:
- no plan
- no money
- no attention forthcoming.
Since 2013, the City has been working on a Davis Square neighborhood plan.
Beginning in 2009, Somerville residents and City planning staff engaged in a lively community planning process and created the “SomerVision: Somerville’s Comprehensive Plan 2010-2030.” This includes some 40 goals, 97 policies, and 445 distinct actions. Goals A-IV and C-VI set out a vision that could hardly be clearer:
- "preserve and enhance the character of Somerville's neighborhoods" and "maintain a healthy and attractive public realm"
IN 1984 and 1986 respectively, the City of Somerville redesigned the entire square as part of the design and construction of the MBTA Davis Square Station, which included the creation of its headhouse entrances, the street-level plaza (Status Park), Seven Hills Park, and the Community Path. At that same time, brick sidewalks and street trees were installed along College, Dover, Elm, Highland, and Holland Streets. These infrastructure changes were the catalyst for transforming the Square into the vibrant community and regional magnet that it has become.
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