This summer, we’re proud to share a milestone that reflects years of care, vision, and growth: the Rose Kennedy Greenway has been officially recognized as an arboretum!

At its heart, an arboretum is a living collection of trees—thoughtfully curated, carefully maintained, and rooted in both education and public enjoyment. But here on The Greenway, it’s also something more. It’s a reflection of what’s possible when we all invest in our green spaces, not just as amenities, but as essential spaces for community life.

Stretching through the heart of Boston, The Greenway’s canopy tells a beautiful story of transformation. What was once a space occupied by a towering elevated highway is now an open green space where trees provide shade, beauty, and habitat. Each and every planting has been selected with intention—contributing to a diverse and resilient urban forest that supports pollinators, cools our neighborhoods, and invites visitors to enjoy a moment of rest as they explore the surrounding city.

This new designation as an arboretum recognizes not only the diversity of trees across the park, but also the expertise and stewardship required to sustain them. From soil health and close attention to pruning, to climate adaptation and long-term planning, the Greenway’s horticulture team cares for this unique urban landscape as a dynamic, evolving system—responding to both seasonal rhythms and the challenges of a changing climate.

For visitors, this designation offers a new way to experience the park. The Greenway is not just a place to pass through, but a place to explore—where each section of the park reveals different species, textures, and seasonal moments. It’s a place to notice the details: the dappled light under a mature canopy, the first leaves emerging in spring, the quiet work of trees supporting urban life in ways both visible and unseen.

As we look ahead, arboretum certification underscores our commitment to growing and enhancing the Greenway’s canopy. Upcoming efforts—including continued investment in areas like Dewey Square—will expand shade, increase biodiversity, and ensure that the park remains a vibrant, resilient landscape for generations to come.

This milestone belongs to our entire community. To the visitors who gather here, the partners who support this work, and the team who cares for the park each day—you are all part of this living landscape.