Harambee Park

History and Design

Harambee Park, formerly known as Franklin Field, is a 45-acre recreational park located in the Dorchester and Mattapan neighborhoods of Boston, Massachusetts. Originally designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in 1892, the park was created to provide Bostonians with a dedicated space for sports and active recreation, complementing the more passive recreational focus of nearby Franklin Park.

Recent Renovations

The park has undergone several transformations over the years, with its most recent redevelopment efforts beginning in 2015. A multi-phased master plan was implemented to improve the park's facilities and accessibility.

The first phase, completed in 2018, included the construction of a new playground on the west side of the park along Blue Hill Avenue, featuring accessible play structures, embankment slides, climbing nets, and water play features. Additionally, basketball courts with LED lighting were added, along with improvements to pathways and park entrances.

Sports Facilities

Subsequent phases of development have focused on enhancing the park's sports facilities. The second phase, completed in 2021, saw the addition of multi-purpose soccer and lacrosse fields, as well as further pathway improvements.

In 2022, the third phase introduced a new football field and practice field. As of 2024, the fourth phase is underway, which includes the construction of cricket competition and practice fields.

Community Impact

Harambee Park serves as a vital community center, offering a wide range of recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. Its extensive open spaces and diverse sports facilities make it a popular destination for both organized sports activities and casual play.

The park's name, "Harambee," which means "pull together" in Swahili, reflects its role in fostering community cohesion and providing a shared space for neighborhood gatherings and events.