Be sure to check out EastBoston.com’s Calendar for community events.
Boston Municipal Research Bureau Appoints New Director of Research
The Boston Municipal Research Bureau has named Dr. Mariellen Jewers as its new Director of Research. Dr. Jewers brings over a decade of experience in public policy research and evaluation, including senior roles at The George Washington University, Creative Associates International, and as an Advisor to USAID. She holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Public Administration from George Washington University, with her dissertation published in Health Affairs. In her new position, she will oversee the Bureau’s research agenda on municipal finance, public management, and education governance. (Source: Boston Municipal Research Bureau)
Massachusetts House Passes $2.25 Billion Supplemental Budget
The Massachusetts House approved a supplemental budget to close Fiscal Year 2025, appropriating $2.25 billion in gross spending at a net cost of $750 million — nearly $200 million less than the Governor’s original proposal. Key investments include $10 million for health coverage enrollment assistance, $10 million for the Life Sciences Center, and $15 million for a Sports and Entertainment Fund (with $10 million earmarked for 2026 FIFA World Cup events). The bill also addresses budget deficiencies including $1.67 billion for MassHealth, $60.7 million for snow removal, and $12 million for Universal School Meals. Representative Adrian Madaro (D-East Boston) emphasized the bill’s protection of residents amid federal cuts to healthcare and other services. The legislation passed 141-14 and now moves to the Senate. (Source: Office of State Representative Adrian Madaro)
Holiday Clothing & Toy Drive for Umana Academy
Lapels Laundromat and Dry Cleaning at Liberty Plaza is hosting a holiday drive through December 23rd, collecting gently worn clothing and wrapped toys for Umana Academy students and families. Donations can be dropped at the customer service counter or 24/7 in the drop box next to Kappy’s liquors. (Via email to EastBoston.com)
Healey-Driscoll Administration Officially Opens New Constitution Beach Playground in East Boston
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has officially opened a new playground at Constitution Beach in East Boston, completing a $1.1 million project to replace aging play equipment with modern, accessible facilities. The original playground equipment, installed in 2000, had deteriorated due to the coastal environment.
The new playground features hot-dipped galvanized materials designed to withstand coastal conditions and reduce maintenance needs. It includes a poured-in-place rubber surface that meets ADA and Massachusetts Architectural Access Board standards, ensuring accessibility for visitors of all abilities. With a coastal theme reflecting its beach setting, the play structures accommodate children ages 2 to 12 with activities including climbing, swinging, rocking, spinning, and quiet play spaces.
Additional improvements include expanded accessible parking, a replaced water bubbler, and strategic relocation of the playground farther from the shoreline. This repositioning allowed for the creation of a new coastal dune to help protect the beach from erosion.
“Playgrounds are vital spaces where kids learn, grow, develop important skills, and build connections with each other and the outdoors,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “This newly updated playground reflects DCR’s commitment to creating accessible, welcoming, and resilient spaces for families across Massachusetts.”
The project aligns with the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s priority of improving accessibility in the state park system. The Administration’s Mass Ready Act includes $764 million for improvements to DCR infrastructure including playgrounds, parks, and campgrounds. (Source: DCR)
