Your trusted source for local Boston, MA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Mayor Michelle Wu launched Boston Reads, a comprehensive literacy initiative aimed at supporting early childhood literacy in Boston. The program expands on the legacy of ReadBoston and seeks to engage families and community partners to improve literacy rates among young learners. The initiative includes various programs like Boston Reads Days and interactive Story Stops to foster a culture of reading.
Mayor Michelle Wu inaugurated improvements to Chandler Pond in Brighton, marking a $990,600 investment in ecological restoration and community access. The project focuses on shoreline stabilization, invasive species removal, and native plantings, enhancing the pond's ecological health and recreational value.
Joshua Burrell-Thompson, a PowerCorps Boston graduate, has become a Foreman at the City of Boston’s Parks and Recreation Department after completing the program in June 2023. PowerCorps Boston offers young adults hands-on training and career readiness support in the green industry, with Joshua emphasizing the importance of being open to learning.
Mayor Michelle Wu announced initiatives to aid Boston's low-income residents, including expanding access to affordable fruits and vegetables for 143,000 SNAP participants. The city has launched a marketing campaign to promote farmers markets and the Double Up Food Bucks program, which provides discounts on fresh produce.
Boston will implement parking restrictions and street closures for several events from July to September 2025, including the Open Newbury Street Series and the Hare Krishna Procession. Attendees are encouraged to use alternative transportation methods like walking, biking, or public transit. Streets near these events will have temporary no-parking zones to ensure public safety.
Boston residents and community groups can now apply for the Spooky Streets Grant Program, receiving $300 mini-grants for Halloween and Fall block parties. The initiative, announced by Mayor Michelle Wu, aims to enhance community engagement and safety during festive celebrations.
The Planning Advisory Council unveiled its Progress Report: East Boston in June 2025, showcasing major public investments in the neighborhood. The report, informed by PLAN: East Boston, highlights initiatives across various sectors, including support for local small businesses through the Legacy Business Program.
Boston has officially acquired Sister Mary Veronica Park in South Boston, ensuring its preservation as public open space. The City purchased the park for $200,166.67, fulfilling a community initiative to protect the area from development. Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized the importance of maintaining accessible community spaces for residents.
Early voting for Boston's Preliminary Municipal Election begins tomorrow, running until September 5. Voters must register by August 30 to participate in determining candidates for Mayor and City Council positions. The election takes place on September 9, 2025.
Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston Public Health Commission commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, acknowledging the lives lost to the opioid epidemic. They highlight their ongoing initiatives to improve access to harm reduction services and celebrate National Recovery Month starting September 1. In 2024, Boston saw a 38% decrease in fatal overdoses compared to the previous year.