Boston 2024's Latest Bid Eliminates Franklin Park Pool Plan

Photo Credit: Boston 2024

As part of their revised Olympic bid, Boston 2024 eliminated previously proposed plans to build a pool in Jamaica Plain’s Franklin Park. The idea of constructing permanent buildings in the area was withdrawn as well.

The previous plans for the pool were almost certainly drawn up to accommodate the swimming stage of the five-event pentathlon.

Franklin Park Coalition leaders are disappointed with Boston 2024’s decision, saying they wish the group consulted the community before erasing the plans from “bid 2.0,” which was unveiled on Monday at a gathering at Boston’s Convention Center.

Boston 2024’s chief operating officer, Erin Murphy, says a meeting was held with the Franklin Park Coalition board. She made it known Boston 2024 was led to believe the board was not in favor of structures or a pool in the area of the park.

“However, we are open minded and would be eager to discuss projects that could enhance the park and leave a lasting legacy after the Games. We are continuing to have conversations with the community and welcome more input as we move forward in the planning process,” Murphy said in statement.

Bid 2.0 did highlight some lasting changes that would be made to Franklin Park. The new plan calls for an upgraded overhaul of the park’s golf course and park land.