Codman Square Park Reopens as a Community-Driven Gathering Space in Dorchester

Codman Square Park has officially reopened, and for the people of Dorchester, it’s more than just a ribbon-cutting. The long-awaited $1.1 million renovation represents years of community visioning, planning, and advocacy—transforming the park into a cultural and climate-resilient hub designed for today and generations to come.

Residents, local organizations, and neighborhood leaders joined with City partners to celebrate the improvements, which include a new performance stage, upgraded spaces for events and everyday use, and climate-smart features like cooling towers, rain gardens, and porous paving. The redesigned space also centers community life with new café seating, water bottle stations, power access, and a community bulletin board to support events such as the beloved Codman Square Farmers Market.

For the Codman Square Neighborhood Council (CSNC) and Friends of Codman Square Park, the moment was years in the making. Back in 2018, the CSNC secured seed funding from the Edward Ingersoll Browne Fund to launch a master plan. Since then, countless volunteer hours and four rounds of community meetings have shaped the design, ensuring the park reflects the voices and needs of local residents.

“This new design and powerful art installation will assist with activating the square and reimagining how we use this open space,” said Cynthia Loesch-Johnson, President of the Codman Square Neighborhood Council. “We are excited for the return of the Codman Square Farmers Market and the many new events to take place in the park.”

One of the most striking additions is the “I Am Codman Sq” sculpture, created by artist Destiny Palmer with metalwork artist Alaina Mahoney. Placed at the Washington and Talbot Streets entrance, the piece celebrates the history, diversity, and cultural vibrancy that define Codman Square.

Local elected officials praised the project as a model for how community input and public resources can create lasting impact.

“The park is a shining example of success for future generations of a community-driven collaborative effort that considers the many voices and backgrounds that make Dorchester such a great community to live, work, and play,” said State Representative Russell Holmes.

With the improvements complete, Codman Square Park is ready to welcome neighbors for everyday connection and special events alike. For residents, it’s more than a renovation—it’s a reflection of their collective power to shape public spaces that bring people together.

For more information, visit boston.gov/codman-square. To stay up to date with news, events, and improvements in Boston parks visit boston.gov/parks, call 617-635-4505, join our email list, and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on X, Facebook, Instagram, and @parks.boston.gov on Bluesky.