North Square Renovation Project Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Held

Renovations on North Square in the North End, Boston’s oldest public square, was completed with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, Sept. 23.

Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, residents, community advocates, business owners and city officials including Councilor Lydia Edwards participated in the $2.5 million reconstruction ribbon-cutting ceremony on a 92-degree fall day.

The reconstruction project began in 2014 with a community design public meeting process with the priorities resulting from those discussions leading to the final design of the project.

A partnership between the Boston Public Works Department and the Boston Art Commission, the renovated Square includes a new piece of permanent public art entitled “North Square Stories,” by A + J Art + Design which conducted three additional neighborhood public meetings gathering input and approval for the final design.

“The renovations of North Square showcase our commitment to making upgrades to Boston’s infrastructure, while still preserving the history and culture of our neighborhoods,” the Mayor said.

“By working hand-in-hand with the community and incorporating their ideas into the design, we have built a better, more accessible space for residents and visitors to gather and enjoy the North End and these new works of art, designed for all,” Mayor Walsh added.

A budget of $200,000 was allocated by the Public Works Department for the public art project team of A+J Art + Design, made up of Ann Hirsch and Jeremy Angier that developed the initial proposal for North Square Stories.

“This investment highlights the beauty of the North End and our city’s role as a cradle of democracy and liberty,” Councilor Edwards said. “The renovated North Square is a wonderful reminder that in Boston we welcome people from across the world as well as those differing physical abilities.”

The city also renovated Rachel Revere Park also located adjacent in North Square on the Freedom Trial.