Matters ▸ Attachment
CPC Final Rec SHA Mystic Open Space FY26 — File 26-0155
City of Somerville
Community Preservation Committee
COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION FOR
Mystic Open Space Recreation Improvements FY26
Project Description
The Somerville Housing Authority requests funds for improvement of open spaces at the Mystic
River/View public housing developments. The purpose of the project is to fully utilize the land, making
improvements that will be beneficial to the adults and children living in the community. With resident
input, SHA is in the design phase of developing a capital improvement plan. CPA funds will be used to
initiate a three-phase project: 1) to replace an underutilized community garden site with scattered raised
community garden beds; 2) make improvements to the basketball court and surrounding site, and 3)
make upgrades to playground areas.
Eligibility
Open Space/Recreation: This project would rehabilitate land for recreational use.
Recommendation
On January 28, 2026 by a vote of 9-0, the Community Preservation Committee recommended that the
Somerville Housing Authority be awarded $50,000 of Community Preservation Act funds from the
Budgeted Reserve to improve the open space at the Mystic River/View developments.
Funding Conditions
The project will follow the General Conditions outlined in a Grant Agreement between the City and the
Grantee. In addition, the following special condition applies to this project:
1. If the Mystic Development open space is subject to a change in use which reduces or eliminates
the open/outdoor recreation space within 50 years of the approval of this grant the funds will be
required to be returned to the CPA fund Open Space Reserve, unless the Community Preservation
Committee consents to allow the City to retain the funds.
2. CPA funds will not pay for design or installation of artificial turf.
3. A detailed scope for site improvements to be paid for with CPA funds will be provided before funds
are disbursed.
The full original proposal is available at:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lZA-GHYa0e-G_PTn4npCVsGcHns62koj/view?usp=drive_link