News and Notes

Love Your Block Mini-Grants

Applications for The Love Your Block program (mini-grant) are currently available to residents and organizations to get involved in their community.

Mini-grants can be used to implement or revitalize a public space like community gardens, art installations and place making.

“The Love Your Block mini-grant program is a fantastic way for the residents and organizations to get involved in the community,” Mayor Martin Walsh said.

Applications are available at [email protected]. Deadline is March 1.

Governor Names Kornegay To Two Boards

Crystal Kornegay has been appointed by Governor Charlie Baker to the five-member MBTA Fiscal and Management Control Board and to the eleven-member MassDOT Board.

“Crystal has a record of accomplishments in housing and community development and has successfully managed operating and capital budgets, and knows the critical importance of working with the residents, business leaders and elected officials,” said Governor Baker.

Ordinance Establishes Safety

An ordinance establishing minimum safety standards for shared mobility businesses, such as E-scooter companies and authorizing the Boston Transportation Department (BTD) to pilot and license shared mobility companies that want to do business in the City.

“Our streets and sidewalks are public access, and we want to ensure that mobility operations in our City are safety, reliable and equitable,” Mayor Martin Walsh said.

Roadmap to Improve Climate

New steps to update Boston’s Climate Action plan to further strengthen the City’s ongoing initiatives to mitigate and adapt to climate control are being taken by the City.

The update includes a project beginning early next month to develop implementation roadmaps to significantly reduce Boston’s carbon emissions.

The roadmap will identify critical action pathways for public and private buildings and transportation sections.

Boston Common Master Plan Launched

A master plan for the Boston Common has been launched by the Parks and Recreation Department in collaboration with the Friends of the Public Garden to augment the cost to fully renovate “America’s First Park”.

Mayo Martin Walsh has committed $28 million from the sale of the City’s Winthrop Square Garage to fund the improvements.

This investment will ensure future generations will enjoy the park in its full vibrancy, according to the City.

Funds Available for Boston Communities

The Digital Fund is accepting applications from local organizations for grants up to $35,000 in total, seed totals up to $160,000 will be dispersed to increase equity across all communities.

By providing seed funding to a new round of applicants, the City hopes to identify promising strategies that will help Bostonians access the tools and skills they need to succeed in the 21st century. Deadline is March 1.

New School Committee Member

Dr. Lorna Rivera has been named by Boston Mayo Martin Walsh to serve on the seven-member Boston School Committee.

“Boston public school parent and an accomplished educator with an extensive background in student advancement and strengthening diverse communities, Dr. Rivera is a wonderful addition to the Boston School Committee,” Mayor Walsh said.

Black History Month

The City of Boston has announced February as Black History Month. During the month, there will be special events hosted around the City celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of the Black community, acknowledging Black leaders, activist and trailblazers.