LoPresti Park
LoPresti Park is located on the farthest most corner of East Boston. This prime location affords some of the most dramatic views of the Boston skyline, the 4th of July fireworks, and sunsets all year long. With Pier Park as a nearby attraction, LoPresti Park is reportedly one of the best kept secrets of the city and often overlooked as a destination for anyone other than the locals. LoPresti functions as a well-used neighborhood park and playground and is frequented by residents who arrive mostly on foot or by bike.
During LoPresti’s last renovation 15 years ago, the turf playing field became the centerpiece of the site. Pedestrian circulation and complementary programmed uses were organized around the field’s central location. Since that time the Maverick neighborhood has evolved with significant development both completed and in progress on three sides of the park.
Weston & Sampson's master plan realigns pedestrian connections with the streets of the neighborhood and strengthens connections with the surrounding housing. The main entrance is now centered on the Maverick Gardens housing development, and the revised layout positions the most-used elements of play and basketball along Sumner Street for improved park safety and access. Fields for game play and practice have been rotated and positioned to allow for most efficient use of the site. Additional programming includes a formal Harborwalk along the water’s edge that connects to the forthcoming developments on either side of the park, walking and running paths with tree cover, earthen mounds for sitting and taking in the views, exercise stations for calisthenic activities, and a mist fountain at the main promontory of the site. Redevelopment of the water’s edge at the cove closest to New Street includes terraced granite steps to allow for access to the water and a launching point for kayaks.