The Argument For and Against the Rosemary Lake Recreation Complex

Needham, MA — The money was approved last year at Town Meeting, but should Needham move ahead with plans to renovate the Rosemary Pool area?

Recently, the Boston Globe had a proponent and opponent for the project give their views on the proposed plan.

Matt Toolan, the chairman of the Needham Park and Recreation Commission, said the plan restores the pool and gives more recreational opportunities for residents.

Toolan argues that the complex would provide access to swimming, canoeing, hiking, summer programs, and more. Other activities like arts and crafts, yoga, dodgeball, and teen programs can be run year round and the area can be used as a meeting place.

On the other side of the issue is Sam Bass Warner, a former member of the Needham Planning Board and a visiting professor of urban history at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He believes that the proposed complex would limit use to children and adults swimmers.

Warner suggests looking at an alternative site for the new pools, including the Newman School parking lot and an area off of High Rock Street, next to the rail trail.

Click here for more from the Boston Globe.