American Legion is a $2.6M all-new and complete redesign of a well-loved park along Chelsea Creek in East Boston. Warner Larson facilitated lively community meetings balancing the competing interests in the community during the design process. The worn-out grass field was replaced with synthetic turf combo softball and soccer field with efficient sports lighting and a separate turf court that allows soccer practice when the softball field is permitted.

An accessible walking loop surrounds the field and connects all park amenities including a nature-inspired playground, the soccer court, two basketball courts, bleachers, and a picnic area with tables set amongst lawn and trees. A dramatic overlook at the high point of the park includes a 12’ tall curved mural wall and a cantilevered shade structure where spectators can see the entire park and gather to play board games on café-style tables.

Soil remediation costs were minimized by Warner Larson’s team proactively and responsively working with the contractor’s schedule and weather conditions. A portion of the original 1930’s concrete bleachers and all site walls were restored and retrofitted to meet current codes with wheelchair seating, an accessible ramp, and powder-coated silver and blue railings that line the ramp, stairs and overlook.