Weymouth Receives State Grant to Renovate Bradford Hawes Park

The Town of Weymouth will receive a $200,000 state grant to renovate Bradford Hawes Park off Lakehurst Avenue in East Weymouth.  The award has been made through the Our Common Backyards program, a $10.3 million investment by Governor Deval Patrick to build or renovate playgrounds and spray parks in all 54 cities in Massachusetts. 

“Growth requires investment, and creating and upgrading recreational parks in urban neighborhoods will help create growth and opportunity across the Commonwealth,” said Governor Patrick, announcing the Our Common Backyards program at Tauton’s Hopewell Park on May 20, 2014. “This investment will improve the lives of Massachusetts children and families now and for generations to come.”

Through the Our Common Backyards program, the state’s Executive Office of Energy and Environment Affairs has committed up to $200,000 to renovate and make improvements to Bradford Hawes Park.  Most work will go into construction over the summer, with the goal of completing all work by the end of 2014.  The Town of Weymouth is contributing an additional $60,000 to the project, which will include a new play structure, a pine grove with benches and tables, renovation of the basketball court, and a walking path. 

“I’m thrilled with the Governor’s program to help renovate our neighborhood parks and playgrounds,” says Weymouth’s Mayor, Susan Kay.  “Preserving open space and creating new opportunities for recreation are important community-making investments that help Weymouth families live healthier, more productive lives.”  At about 11 acres, Bradford Hawes Park has space enough to accommodate a large, accessible play area that’s close in proximity to parking, seating, and trees.  The site was chosen by the Town and the state, not only because it’s among the most comprehensive playgrounds in Weymouth, but also because it’s located within walking distance to public transit and a diverse, underserved population.

Click here for the Mayor's press release.