Malden River Greenway Gets Green Light Of Sorts

MELROSE, MA — The Malden River Greenway got something in the way of a green light recently.

The Department of Environmental Protection last Friday issued a Chapter 91 license condition that says National Grid must build and maintain a 10-foot wide half-mile pathway along the Malden River. National Grid must submit a plan within one year and finish the path's construction within two years.

Malden hopes to see the waterfront along the river transform into a living, breathing area for recreation and enjoyability. It's part of a larger effort by the Mystic River Watershed Association to connect communities across Malden, Medford, and Everett by building a park system along the river, allowing for more accessible green space.

"I think the Malden River is a citywide asset," said Ward 4 City Councilor Ryan O'Malley, who has been championing improvements in the area as Malden's advisory to the Mystic River Watershed Association.

The City is working with the National Park Service, the Friends of the Malden River, the Mystic River Watershed Association, Malden Arts, and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to infuse the area with art and culture - including sculptures - and inform people as to the great industrial history of the river.

MassDEP's decision "is a huge step in the right direction towards achieving our vision," O'Malley said.

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Main image credit: Utile Design