https://forms.gle/t1Pnk9evGxrHLBTx8 or register via email to nicholas.long@boston.gov

RAIN DATE

Sunday, November 9, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

The scope of work for this event will focus on several projects related to cleaning up fallen leaves, woody debris, and undesirable plants, making Nira Rock healthier for people and wildlife. Other projects may include trail improvements and generally preparing the site for the winter. Volunteers can expect to work on even and uneven terrain, with tasks involving picking up sticks and bags as well as using rakes. 

WHAT TO BRING

Drinking water, sturdy footwear, and clothes you wouldn't mind getting dirty, including long sleeves and long pants. No experience necessary! Staff from the Urban Wilds Program will provide tools and instruction, but you are welcome to bring your own tools and work gloves as well.

Please reach out if you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions. 

Join Pao Arts Center, Ecosistema Urbano, and the Rose Kennedy Greenway as we say goodbye to PlanTable with a final celebration.

(Rain date Sunday, 10/19, from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.)

Over the past three months,  a variety of visitors of all ages have enjoyed the shade provided by the 16 trees, community members have connected with friends and family with additional benches and seating, and learned more about climate change through  a historical temperature timeline on the table.

Stop by to enjoy family-friendly activities, meet the architects and community partners that made this project come alive in Chin Park.

Please join the City of Boston for a ribbon cutting and community celebration for the completion of the Mattahunt Woods Urban Wild Restoration project. This will be a family-friendly event with activities for children and resources from various City of Boston Departments. This event is free and open to the public.

WHEN: Friday, October 24 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: Colorado Street entrance; 210 Colorado Street, Boston, MA 02126

Mattahunt Woods consists of over eight acres of secluded forested wetlands in Mattapan. The site provides important wildlife habitat and native vegetation, and mitigates the impacts of stormwater runoff, but had become degraded over time. The City launched a capital improvement project in early 2023 to study the site, engage the Mattapan community to inform the project, and design a new trail system and other site improvements. Project goals and outcomes include removing hazardous trees and invasive species and increasing native vegetation; preserving and enhancing on-site wetlands; creating a trail system throughout the property improving site access and wayfinding/signage; and enhancing the connection of the property to the nearby Mattahunt Elementary School. Site restoration and trail construction began in Summer 2024 in partnership between the City of Boston's Environment Department, Parks and Recreation Department, Office of Green Infrastructure, and PowerCorps Boston. 

To learn more, visit the project website or check out this video about the project!

Celebrate the unveiling of P.L.A.Y. (Play Learn Athletic Youth)—a new public art project at Dewitt Playground in Madison Park, designed by artist Marlon Forrester in collaboration with Studio Luz and BR+A+CE. The project reimagines the basketball court as both a neighborhood gathering space and a living canvas. Alongside the ribbon cutting, experience Out of Bounds, a live art showcase curated by Marlon Forrester, with activations that bring artists, coaches, and neighbors together.

Come for the ribbon cutting, stay for the joy.

RSVP for the event

What’s Going Down

• Ribbon cutting and unveiling of P.L.A.Y. with Marlon Forrester, Studio Luz, BR+A+CE, City partners, and Madison Park/BPS community
• Out of Bounds court activations led by teaching artists and coaches
• Live DJ and performances that move us to reflect
• Hands-on art stations for kids and grown-ups, beginners welcome
• Community tables with resources, programs, and ways to get involved
• Local food vendors on site

Play by Play

11 a.m. - Opening remarks

12 p.m. - Ribbon cutting and group photo

12:30 p.m. - Showcase and live performances

1 p.m. - Afrofuturism / The Court as Canvas: Sport, Design, and the Architecture of Black Imagination curated by Nucarta

2 p.m.  - Tunes by your favorite DJs

3 p.m.  - Youth basketball activation

5 p.m. - Closing word

Meet Us Here

Dewitt Playground at Madison Park, Roxbury

Enter near Dewitt Drive and Malcolm X Boulevard. Follow the wayfinding and the sound of good music.

Need the T?

• Transit: Roxbury Crossing (Orange Line), Bus 15, 22, 23, 28, 44, 45
• Bikes: Bluebike stations nearby + racks (bring a lock)
• Parking: Limited neighborhood street parking — transit or rideshare encouraged

Accessibility

The site has paved paths, curb cuts, and seating. ASL available by request — email (arts@boston.gov) by September 22. A low-sensory area will be located near the info table.

Gratitude

Presented by the City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, Nucarta, Studio Luz, BR+A+CE, and artist Marlon Forrester. With production support by SIDE Presents. Thank you to Madison Park/BPS, neighbors, volunteers, and partners who make this day possible.

Photos on this page by Jane Messinger.