Mass. high court rules in favor of Boston in White Stadium lawsuit

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled in favor of Boston in a lawsuit challenging the $325 million White Stadium renovation project, clearing the way for construction to proceed. The project, a public-private partnership between the city and Boston Legacy FC, will renovate the stadium as a hub for Boston Public Schools Athletics and the NWSL team. Plaintiffs, including the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and local residents, argued the plan violated Article 97, a state constitutional amendment protecting public parkland. However, the court determined that 1947 and 1950 state legislation transferred the stadium site from parkland to a school facility under the George Robert White Fund, removing it from Article 97 protections. Mayor Michelle Wu and Boston Legacy FC celebrated the decision, emphasizing its benefits for students and professional women’s soccer. Opponents criticized the project’s rising costs and potential displacement of public access, advocating for a smaller, fully public renovation. The project’s budget increased from $50 million in 2024 to $325 million, with Boston Legacy FC contributing $190 million and the city $135 million. The ruling resolves a years-long legal battle, though concerns about traffic and community impact remain.

(Source：The Boston Globe)