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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The debate over a proposed soccer stadium in Everett was renewed during a hearing on Beacon Hill Tuesday.
The Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies heard arguments on a bill (S 2692) filed by Sen. Sal DiDomenico in December. The legislation would rezone a 43-acre parcel of unused industrial land on the Everett-Boston border to pave the way for a "professional soccer stadium and waterfront park."
The new stadium on the Mystic River would become the home turf for the New England Revolution, who currently play at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.
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Everett leadership and Revolution owners The Kraft Group are in favor of the rezoning.
"What we are asking for is economic equity for our environmental justice community, so that we can get rid of the dirty industrial uses that we have to live with, and a chance to bring in desperately needed new growth," Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria told the committee.
However, environmentalists such as Maggie Sullivan of the Conservation Law Foundation are opposed to developing the land currently protected in a "designated port area."
"Major transportation would also need to be developed and funded in order to support the stadium," Sullivan said.
City of Boston representatives also expressed their concerns for public transportation and traffic safety.
"I think the closest stop will be Sullivan Square," said Boston City Councilor Carole Durkan. "This is a mile away from the stadium and walking would be dangerous."
New England Revolution owners The Kraft Group currently play at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, but have long wanted its own stadium closer to Boston.
WBZ's Mike Macklin reports.
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