Hoyt Sullivan Playground Renovation

UPDATE 5/1/2017

The renovation of the Hoyt Sullivan Playground is underway, and the park will be closing the week of May 1, 2017. Construction fencing and signage will be erected in the days ahead.

The City of Somerville would like to thank everyone who has helped with this project to date. The input that we have received allowed us to create a quality plan that we look forward to bringing to fruition. We also thank residents in advance for their patience and understanding in the months ahead. We hope to reopen the Hoyt Sullivan Playground later this fall.

If you have any questions, please contact Arn Franzen, Director of Parks and Open Space:

Arn Franzen
Director of Parks and Open Space
Mayor's Office of Strategic Planning & Community Development
(617) 625-6600 x2545
afranzen@somervillema.gov 

The Hoyt Sullivan Playground is located at 117 Central Street and is scheduled for renovation in the spring of 2017. Plans and images for the new design can be found in the meeting notes below.

After many community requests, the City prioritized the playground’s renovation in 2015. In 2016 the project funding sources were confirmed and the renovation will be will be funded with a combination of Federal Community Development Block grant funds, a State PARC grant, and local CPA funds.

Three community meetings were held between June of 2015 and September of 2016, and a final design community presentation is scheduled for March 29, 2017. Presentations from those meetings can be seen below.

Our new design is based upon the ideas developed with community members and will focus on improved security and safety, a healthier tree canopy, and a design that incorporates natural materials and features that promote healthy exploratory play for all ages.

New features will include better lighting and improved visibility, basketball hoops for children and adults, a new deck around the beech tree, a cafe space with tables and chairs, an ADA accessible circulation and scootering path that traverses new slopes and elevations, an interactive sand and water play area, monkey bars, natural log play features, new swings, and a balcony overlooking the rail corridor.

For more information, please contact Arn Franzen at 617-625-6600 ext. 2545, or e-mail afranzen@somervillema.gov