Boston Harbor Islands Pavilion construction begins

19, May, 2010 Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy

The Conservancy horticultural staff has recently transplanted fourteen trees and all of the plant material in the raised bed of the northern most parcel of the Wharf District Parks to prepare for construction of the Boston Harbor Islands Pavilion. The landscape may look a little barren right now but very soon construction fencing will be erected with photos of the islands – tempting us to take the short ferry ride to the harbor and explore one of the greatest hidden gems in Boston!

When it opens next year, the pavilion – a project of Boston Harbor Island Alliance and the National Park Service – will  help further enliven and activate this part of the Greenway which is already a popular destination as the site of the Greenway Carousel. The pavilion – a 4,500 square foot open-air public facility, built within a 28,000 square foot landscaped footprint – will serve as a visitor information facility and will offer ferry tickets, schedules, and answers to general questions about the city of Boston. Innovative interpretive exhibits will promote the islands and help visitors learn about their wonderful natural, cultural and historical features.

Pavilion rendering; view from the carousel looking southwest.

Pavilion rendering; view from the carousel looking southwest.

The pavilion will also provide the capacity for special events, a small retail function and concessions, and serve as a landside environmental education facility that can accommodate groups of kids and/or adults. We are looking forward to collaborating with National Park Service on many programs and activities.

Pavilion rendering; view from the Mothers' Walk looking north.

Updates on construction will be posted periodically on the Greenway’s Facebook page and this blog.

The pavilion will also provide the capacity for special events, a small retail function and concessions, and serve as a landside environmental education facility that can accommodate groups of kids and/or adults. We are looking forward to collaborating with National Park Service on many programs and activities.