Kennedy School Playground Renovations Community Meeting 2 2-26-26

The Somerville GovTV hosted a community meeting on February 26, 2026, to discuss the Kennedy School Playground Renovation Project. The meeting presented the preferred schematic design developed by CBA Landscape Architects, incorporating extensive community input and feedback from various stakeholders including school staff, city departments, and advisory councils. The project aims to create Somerville's first inclusive playground with features that promote accessibility, active and passive recreation, educational opportunities, and sustainable stormwater management. The renovation will be executed in two phases: the first phase focuses on parking lot adjustments, playground expansion, and critical infrastructure improvements scheduled for summer 2026, while the second phase will complete the playground enhancements in summer 2027. Funding for the project has been approved by the city council, including a Community Preservation Act (CPA) grant. The design balances playground expansion with a reduction in parking spaces, addressing accessibility needs with ADA-compliant parking and drop-off areas. The meeting also covered details about playground equipment, shade structures, stormwater management, and community engagement plans moving forward.