Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Boston, MA

Neponset River Greenway Tenean Beach to Morrissey Boulevard

BSC led the design of the final link of the Neponset River Greenway, completing a critical connection between Boston’s southern neighborhoods, Morrissey Boulevard, and downtown Boston. The project improved pedestrian and bicycle access while enhancing ecological resources and climate resilience along the Dorchester Bay shoreline.

The project included approximately 3,600 feet (0.7 miles) of shared-use path, including a 670-foot elevated boardwalk with scenic overlooks spanning the salt marsh and tidal habitats of Dorchester Bay. To address future climate conditions, the deck of the boardwalk was elevated above projected 1% annual chance (100-year) flood elevations, including anticipated sea level rise, while preserving opportunities for future coastal resilience measures. Additional improvements included drainage enhancements, habitat restoration, wayfinding signage, and pedestrian and bicycle crossings.

The project was reviewed and permitted by the Boston Conservation Commission for compliance with the City of Boston Wetlands Protection and Climate Adaptation Ordinance and was developed in coordination with MassDOT, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), and the City of Boston.