Our Neponset Community Celebration

The rainy days prior,was just what the Neponset Greenway needed ,because today as neighbors and friends gathered for the opening of the expansion,the vibrant Fall colors amidst a canopy of luscious greenery,welcomed all who made their way to the Harvest Bridge the focal point of today's celebration.

Karen Groce- Horan,Diane D'Souza and Vivien Morris,three members of the planning committee,were hard at work setting up upon my arrival.Director of Family and Community Health Services of The Mattapan Community Health Center,Sharon Callender, was one of the first to have her table with resource material of various health care needs all set up .When asked why she chose to be here today she remarked"she graciously accepted an invite from Vivien Morris ,a stalwart member in the community who with her passion for equity and inclusion and whose current work with the Mattapan Food and Fitness Coalition,often partners with the health center to help improve the health of local residents for easy access to healthy food.

Pride filled the air as residents on both sides of the bridge, Mattapan and Milton gathered to celebrate what took many years to bring to fruition.

State Representative Russel Holmes who grew up in Mattapan recounted how as a boy access to the Milton side of the Neponset was prohibited.State Rep.Dan Cullinane and State Senator Nick Collins also spoke of the symbolism of the bridge and it's ability to bring people together.

Former Governor Deval Patrick along with Former State Senator Linda Dorcena Forry were both thanked for their steadfast commitment and legislation helpful to the expansion.

City Councillor Andrea Campbell who took part in the exercise portion of the celebration was overjoyed at the success of the expansion and thanked the organizers for this day of festivities.

The Divas mentoring Divas Dance Troupe had everyone dancing along.The Boston City Singers World Rhythm E semble thrilled under the direction of Kimani Lumsden and what a treat it was to hear the number 1 chart topper Despacito played with such charisma by the oh so talented musicians making up the Branches Steel Band.

There was music, dancing,poetry, kite flying and yes food, Caribbean delicacies compliments of The Church of the Holy Spirit who also lifted the crowd in rousing gospel sweet strawberry tomatoes from.Brookwood Farm and Vanilla Ice Cream from the Ice cream Smith, there was something for every palette.

DCR Commissioner Leo Roy talked about the importance of getting outside and breathing fresh air and just how valued these green spaces are for healthy living and raising families.

The weather was perfect as the bikers rolled across the bridge from the Milton T stop to Mattapan Square and back.A grateful Neponset Greenway Committee who gathered with State Senator Walter F.Timilty for a group celebratory photo, expressed their gratitude to everyone who helped not only today's event but who fought over the years for this expansion.

As the festivities came to an end,Vivien Morris summed it a up with these three pointers.

Never give up

Speak up for justice

Be open to connecting with neighbors

And with one look at the Harvest Bridge we can see why.

To find out more about all the performers at today's celebration.

Email the Neponset Committee at

Mattapan.Milton@ Gmail.com