The project at White Stadium promises new indoor and outdoor amenities, economic benefits, and a sustainable approach to preserving the investment. The transportation plan presented by Brian Belle from Howard Stein Hudson, a transportation consultant, included a multimodal approach that targets pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements, enhanced public transit access, and effective management of parking and traffic flow. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the proposed shuttle routes, traffic volumes, and the impact of game days on the surrounding areas.

Given the White Stadium’s capacity to host large events, such as soccer games and community festivals, the transportation plan is important for mitigating potential traffic congestion and ensuring efficient movement for residents and visitors. The project envisions 40% of attendees utilizing public transportation, 40% using off-site parking with shuttle services, 10% relying on ride-sharing, and 5% biking and walking. To facilitate this, detailed maps of bus routes, proximity to the Orange Line, and plans for bike parking and valet services were shared. Moreover, the city’s speed hump program and the Eglon Square redesign were mentioned as part of the broader strategy to encourage alternative transportation modes.

An important aspect of the transportation discussion was the proposed neighborhood-specific game day parking program. The program aims to meet the parking needs of residents with Jamaica Plain resident permit parking stickers and a visitor placard system on game days.

The meeting also touched on the enforcement of parking restrictions within the park, with park rangers and the Boston Police Department (BPD) identified as the primary enforcers, supported by game day traffic ambassadors. Plans for free Boston shuttles from the MBTA station for park visitors were outlined, and feedback was sought regarding the proposed walk shed area and street regulations.

Community engagement played a role in the meeting, with elected officials and members of the public sharing their feedback and concerns. Issues raised included the impact on parking due to the proposed changes, the need for more community engagement, and the historical significance of the stadium. Responses to concerns about pedestrian and bike safety during the construction phase pointed to the potential implementation of a raised intersection for traffic calming and pedestrian safety.

Accessibility concerns were also a focal point, with discussions on the lack of public parking on-site and the limited ADA parking due to the topography of the area. The board acknowledged these challenges and highlighted the provision of ADA services from pick-up and drop-off locations to the stadium via golf cart.

The debate over the shuttle route on Walnut Avenue and the use of MBTA bus stops was vigorous, with community members expressing concerns about the inability to turn buses around at the MBTA station and the efficiency of using shuttles. Safety and the impact on businesses due to restricted parking zones were also discussed, along with a suggestion to implement short-term parking restrictions near commercial areas. Further discussions regarding transportation delved into the impact on the community, the need for additional parking permits, and the location of satellite parking.

Attendees were reminded of upcoming engagement opportunities and encouraged to participate in ongoing discussions about the project.