Boston Common Master Plan

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department (BPRD) selected Weston & Sampson to develop a creative, historically compatible, and flexible master plan for the revitalization of Boston Common, America’s first public park.

In preparing a strategic plan for this 50-acre urban oasis, we envisioned a resilient Common that can withstand heavy use, New England weather, and the test of time. Together with BPRD and the Friends of the Public Garden, our team developed a master plan with increased capacity for historical tourism, recreation, and programming.

To capture diverse voices across the city and beyond, we deployed a robust public outreach process, that included pop-up exhibits at a range of events and sites, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to comment on areas of the Common, evaluate current programming, and create a wish list of potential enhancements. Nearly 6,000 individuals took our online survey or engaged with us at an in-person event, providing valuable data about how people use the Common now and how it can better serve them in the future. Coupled with our design expertise, this carefully curated engagement program will culminate in the delivery and implementation of a new vision for Boston Common.