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The Boston City Council approved a resolution supporting House Bill No. 148, which establishes a Livable Home Modification Grant Program. The program offers individuals up to $5,000 for retrofitting homes with accessibility features, benefiting those earning under 120% of the area median income.
Mayor Michelle Wu has announced the return of the Boston Playoff Hub on Canal Street, transforming it into a pedestrian-only zone for Celtics fans during home playoff games. This initiative enhances community engagement and supports local businesses, following the Celtics’ recent championship win. The closure of Canal Street provides a festive atmosphere for fans to gather and celebrate safely.
Mayor Michelle Wu, alongside city officials and regional partners, announced comprehensive public safety measures for the upcoming 129th Boston Marathon, set for April 21, 2025. This year, the marathon will host 30,000 participants from around the globe, and the event will feature the Fastest Bostonians award for local runners. Public safety officials, including police and emergency services, are collaborating to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both participants and spectators.
The article commemorates the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere's midnight ride, a pivotal event in American history that warned of British troop movements during the American Revolution. It highlights the contributions of Revere, William Dawes, and Samuel Prescott in alerting colonial militias, which ultimately helped secure a victory against British forces. The city of Boston plans a series of celebrations to honor this historic milestone, emphasizing its revolutionary spirit.
Mayor Michelle Wu announced the partial reopening of Copley Square Park ahead of the 2025 Boston Marathon, with the Plaza and Raised Grove areas now accessible. The park, undergoing an $18.9 million renovation since July 2023, aims to enhance accessibility and community use. While not open for spectators on race day, the space will support athlete services and volunteer operations during the marathon weekend.
Mayor Michelle Wu recognized outstanding contributions to Boston's climate initiatives at the inaugural Boston Climate Leader Awards. The event honored various individuals and organizations for their innovative efforts in sustainability, climate resilience, and environmental protection, showcasing a strong commitment to climate justice in the city. Award recipients included Boston University, LISC Massachusetts, and Dr. Anna Goldman, each making significant strides in reducing emissions and fostering community engagement.
The Council's Earth Day celebration highlights the ongoing commitment to environmental preservation and climate resilience in Boston. Through initiatives like Climate Ready Boston, the city aims to protect vulnerable communities and natural resources, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and climate justice. This resolution serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address environmental challenges year-round.
Mayor Michelle Wu celebrated the grand opening of the Betty Greene Apartments in Jackson Square, a new 65-unit affordable housing development aimed at revitalizing the area. The project, designed to be energy-efficient and transit-oriented, includes various income-restricted units to support lower-income families. Local officials praised the initiative as a crucial step in addressing Boston's housing crisis.
Boston Public Schools (BPS) will implement a new transportation policy that pauses bus transportation for students who do not ride consistently. Beginning in May, students who miss ten consecutive school days without prior notification will be removed from their bus routes, aiming to improve operational efficiency. This change affects an estimated 1,000 students and provides families a chance to opt back in later.
The Boston Streets Cabinet has launched the next round of applications for the Boston E-Bikes Incentive Program, designed to provide financial vouchers to seniors, low-income residents, and individuals with disabilities for purchasing e-bikes. The initiative aims to enhance mobility, promote sustainable transportation, and address historical inequities in access. Applications are open until April 30, 2025, with additional support available through community events and resources.