~ OP-ED ~ City on sidelines too long — soccer stadium key

By Mayor Carlo DeMaria

In response to the Boston Globe’s continuing coverage on pending legislation that would open the door for a waterfront stadium proposal, I urge the focus to stay on the urgent economic and environmental needs of Everett (“Krafts move closer to their goooooooal,” Business, July 17).   The need for this bill has been no secret and has been reported on widely. I welcome the opportunity for all interested parties to be presented with an official proposal regarding a new soccer stadium if and when the legislation is passed.

Mayor Michelle Wu of Boston and I are strong advocates for leveraging private projects to improve the lives of residents in environmental justice communities, especially if they help enhance public transit options for our residents and our region. She’s a great ally for the advancement of bus rapid transit systems, and I appreciate that.

The Conservation Law Foundation’s opposition over the process for changing a designated port area makes no sense when one considers the benefits of using private funds to replace a contaminated industrial site with a waterfront area — one that features open green space and fresh air.

Everett has watched on the sidelines for years while other communities have grown. We have carried the burden of smokestacks and outdated industries long enough. Everett deserves better options such as those our surrounding communities already enjoy.