It’s December, a time for lists of favorites!
There is so much I love about District 7 – and so many important pieces of Framingham, past and present and future. As a freshman City Councilor, there’s been a lot of work and learning. I’ve been working to connect residents with our city services, and support our city staff to best serve residents. Thank you for your engagement as we go.
#10
The main branch of the Framingham Public Library.
Currently getting a new accessible ramp entrance, it’s more than just books. It’s museum passes, a library of things, seed lending library, and the Cossin Community Room. If you want books- there’s a monthly book sale.
#9
Field work has begun with the Eversource Geothermal Pilot Program of Eastern MA, an innovative heating and cooling system using wells, piping and pumps to pull the earth’s heat out of the ground to heat and cool buildings. This area of D7 was chosen as a mix of residential (single and multi-family) and commercial properties with a diversity of incomes and existing heating fuels.
We’re host to #8 (of 32) of the “Many Cultures, One Heart” art pieces. How many can you find before you look at a map? This public art project highlighted the artistic and ethnic diversity of Framingham through a series of heart sculptures painted by local artists and placed around the City. Each heart hosts a QR code that links to a video of the artist and explanation of the art.
#7
MetroWest Medical Center & MetroWest Pharmacy
It was welcome news when our community hospital changed their plans and announced operation of the cancer center would be taken over by Tufts Medicine, allowing the community hospital to preserve cancer care in Framingham while tapping into the resources of Tufts Medical Center in Boston. Pending state regulatory approvals, the transition is expected to be completed in early 2023. Thank you to Senator Karen Spilka for her work to bring the community together.
Across Union Ave. is independently owned MetroWest Pharmacy, where no appointment is needed for a flu shot or Covid booster.
#6
The Train Station is iconic in Framingham history and development. It is an anchor around which development happens, and many of the downtown buildings were once “rooming houses.” It is at the heart of our Transit Oriented Design development plan and Central Business District. It is a more urban area of Framingham, with density, walkability and retail. There are proposals for development of more housing, along with conversations about retail requirements, affordability, parking, and traffic. Stay tuned!
Fire Station #5 is located on Concord Street, one of five in the City.
D7 is also host to the Police Headquarters.
Lots of first responders come to work in our district — THANK YOU.
#4
Our City Hall is located in our Memorial Building. Our seat of government is rooted in remembrance of where we’ve come from and recognition of those who were called to serve and gave their lives. It is a resource center for residents, and meeting space for our government boards. Big decisions get made here…..
*All District 7 residents now vote at 150 Concord Street.*
We’ve got #3 Little Free Libraries!
Take a Book. Share a Book.
Have you found them all?
They are about expanding book access and building community. They are sites of community exchange and interaction. They are opportunities for you to casually meet your neighbors.
#2
Learned Pond Beach
One of three public neighborhood beaches in Framingham. Free and open only to residents it’s a gem on a hot summer afternoon. During the summer the water quality is tested weekly (thanks Health Department!). Neighbors have struggled at times with the increased traffic, parking, and noise. Remember, please be a good neighbor and consider the safety and sanity of the local residents.
#1
Butterworth Park
My backyard winter wonderland and home to the ONLY PICKLEBALL COURTS in Framingham (thanks Parks & Rec!) as well as a playground, basketball court, and cricket pitch.
Have you gotten outside today?
| It is an honor to serve this community and delve into the challenges, opportunities, and celebrations of all of these amazing places. |
Leora, thanks for sharing this interesting report on the programs and initiatives occurring in District 7. Your personal engagement with the people in the community, listening and learning from them about the real problems they face at home, at work, in the schools, on the streets, has surely provided a strong foundation for you to represent their hopes, needs, and expectations at City Council and other forums. Applause and best wishes for a productive and happy 2023. Hank Moran