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Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
Who said parks are just for children? Since early August, an experimental event landscape known as The Lawn on D has provided a place to relax for adult residents and workers in Boston’s Innovation District.
The temporary public park space, commissioned by the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, offers community-driven programming like free game rentals, interactive activities, art exhibits, free WiFi, music and food trucks.
The 2.7-acre space, located on D Street next to the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in South Boston, is the first of its kind in Boston to offer an outdoor interactive experience. The goal for the space, according to the Convention Center Authority, is to be reflective of its location and the innovative people who work and live in Boston.
“By having The Lawn On D, we’re taking another step in having the city become more innovative,” said Boston Mayor Martin Walsh. “This allows us to showcase the city of Boston in a unique way, while giving people places to come and enjoy themselves outdoors.”
A featured activity called “Swing Time,” consisting of 20 glowing oval swings, is an interactive art piece that allows curious visitors to relive their childhood. The swings have LED lights that change colors as the swings move.
The goal of the park is “to encourage public engagement, foster creativity and test opportunities for integrating the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center into the urban fabric” of the area, according to the website (www.lawnond.com). Results from the experimental programming will help the MCCA plan for a permanent outdoor space as part of the expansion of the Convention Center.
The Lawn on D will be open for 18 months and will feature seasonal programming.