Gov. Baker, Mayor Walsh Celebrate Opening Of Martin's Park

BOSTON — It's been six years since the Boston Marathon bombings, which took the lives of three people and injured hundreds more. One of those three people was Martin Richard, an eight-year-old boy from Dorchester, who loved playing outside with his siblings and friends. Richard was known as a kid who wanted to make sure everyone was included, and on Saturday, Richard's family, along with Mayor Marty Walsh, Gov. Charlie Baker, and hundreds of residents joined together to make that dream a reality, opening Martin's Park at the Smith Family Waterfront in South Boston.

Martin's Park, located at 64 Sleeper Street, is an inclusive park and play space, and according to city officials, is the first of its kind in Boston, and offers a space for children of all abilities to play.

"Over the past two years, we've witnessed the incredible transformation of Martin's Park into a world-class space for everyone in Boston to enjoy," said Walsh. "Parks are the heart and soul of our city. Martin's spirit will always be alive in Boston, and because of the work of the Richard family, countless families will come together at this park and share in the love, compassion and hope one special young boy taught us."

The park consists of two playgrounds connected by a bridge. Sloped pathways throughout the site feature drums, small sculpture animals, binoculars, and interpretive signage and provide access to inclusive play elements such as embankment slides, a basket swing, play ship, timber maze climber, and water garden, as well as provide views across Fort Point Channel.

Martin's Park was a collaborative effort; the $15 million project was created when the entire Boston community came together. Hundreds of donors raised the money, the City of Boston pitched in $2 million, and The Smith Family Foundation and Barr Foundation each provided $3 million. Richard's father, Bill said he's beyond grateful to see the community come together to keep his son's vision alive.

"We are forever grateful for the unwavering support of our donors, volunteers and city officials that have made Martin's Park possible, and we are thrilled to share this special place with everyone in the city of Boston," said Bill Richard. "For us, Martin's Park is a symbol of the commitment of so many individuals and their dedication to building a more kind, just, and inclusive community here in the city that we love."