Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway

The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, a 15-acre ribbon of parks and development, has taken the place of the old, green Central Artery overpass that used to weave through Boston. While we often use the term Greenway to describe what seems to be a single space, the fact is that there are four main designated park areas that comprise the Greenway, each with its own unique features and personality. Take the time you visit them and learn more: The Big Dig buried the highway and made way for the construction of parks, walkways and greenspace from the North End to the Financial District. It's clear that the Greenway could become one of the world's great urban parks. With the announcement of its fund-raising success, the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Conservancy which manages the greenway space is on its way to realizing the Greenway's full potential. With the highway gone and the city reunited with its waterfront, Boston has an opportunity unique in the history of the modern city -- to create a grand promenade of parkland through the middle of downtown. People tend to make the space their own, by bringing cricket sets to play. The streets surrounding the Greenway are busy, but the park itself has a surprisingly relaxing atmosphere. Of particular interests to families of young ones is the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Rings Fountain on the Greenway by the New England Aquarium (between Milk St and Congress St). Tall, easy-to-dash-through sprays find an unsuspecting audience of tourists, aquarium go-ers and commuters. Many parents of little ones let them strip down, unprepared to find a new water feature in their travels. The Greenway is named after Sen. Edward Kennedy's mother, who died in 1995 at the age of 104. Rose Kennedy grew up in the North End. One year after her death, the then-Gov. William Weld signed legislation naming the Greenway in her honor. The Greenway is managed by the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Conservancy, Inc.

Saturday, Oct 4, 2008 - The Rose F. Kennedy Greenway Grand Opening, 8am Now that the Big Dig Project is complete, come and celebrate the grand opening of the Rose F. Kennedy Greenway. The Greenway is 15 acres of new public parkland that goes through Chinatown, the Wharf District, and the North End neighborhoods. There will be artwork, dance, and music from local organizations and individuals. Bring your family and friends to this once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Admission is FREE.
View an Interactive guide to the Greenway here View a resident's slideshow of the gorgeous day here.