02-05-2025
Revamped Copley Square has some Bostonians asking where the green went
Boston's Copley Square partially reopened last month after nearly two years, and while most visitors love that it's back, some expected more grass and less cement.
Why it matters: The $18.9 million renovation transformed what was predominantly a grassy area into a paved plaza. To some, the Back Bay's green oasis now looks more like a parking lot.
What they're saying: Back Bay native C.J. told Axios that he's happy the park has reopened and that he likes the plaza's greater capacity for events but that "the jury's still out" on the aesthetics.
"It could use maybe a sprinkle of color, some art display or something like that, you know, kind of to signify Copley," he said.
Mary M. Smith told Axios she's been waiting for the plaza to reopen and thinks the designers did a beautiful job.
"One of the big things for me is the Boston Book Fest, and so I am hoping to see the vendors back, and even before that, I'm looking forward to seeing the farmers market happen again," Smith said.
"It sucks," said one woman who declined to be interviewed.
Mayor Michelle Wu defended the new layout.
"This is the result of months and months of community conversations ... a more walkable, vibrant space for everyone," Wu said.
The intrigue: Josh Kraft, Wu's opponent in this year's mayoral election, is asking if that community process was well known enough to everyday Bostonians.
"It is grey, barren and soulless and looks like a skateboard park. Where are the trees and green space, and more importantly, did the community have input here?" Kraft wrote in a campaign statement.
Yes, but: The park project isn't finished. Fountains and lawns on the Trinity Church side of the square remain under construction.
And while the park doesn't have much green at the moment, it does have some yellow. A tulip installation on the Boston Public Library side of the park has blossomed just in time for this week's bout of warm weather.
The bottom line: Where the old park presented traditional urban greenery, the revamped Copley Square prioritizes the site as a multiuse gathering spot.
The new Copley Square features cement paths meant to improve walkability and for large gatherings, like First Night, sports rallies and other celebrations.
The cement walkways have replaced the previously expansive tree-lined grass field nestled between St. James Avenue and Boylston Street with hardscaped surfaces.
