2024-09-10 Meeting Notes

On September 10, 2024, about 40 Forest Hills residents met under the aegis of the Forest Hills Neighborhood Association for the inaugural meeting of the Forest Hills Neighborhood Association.

The Wenham Street Cinema buzzed with activity as the Forest Hills Neighborhood Association convened its latest meeting. Nearly 40 residents joined forces with city officials and law enforcement to tackle a spectrum of local issues, from traffic hazards to public drug use.

Traffic safety dominated the discussion, with residents decrying reckless drivers and perilous intersections. City Councilor Ben Weber unveiled plans for the city's street calming program, though he cautioned that eligible streets wouldn't see changes until after 2026. The spotlight also fell on the Hyde Park Avenue redesign project, with community input sessions slated for the fall.

The scourge of public drug use, particularly around Hyde Park Avenue and Parkman Playground, elicited passionate responses from attendees. Officials highlighted the Mayor's Coordinated Response Team, which dispatches social workers to aid those grappling with homelessness or substance abuse. In response to these concerns, local police have ramped up their presence in affected areas.

Noise pollution emerged as another flashpoint, with residents lamenting late-night revelry and booming car stereos. Officer Murray reported on recent crackdowns, including $20,000 in fines issued since August and nightly barrier installations to thwart gatherings.

The meeting also explored future development prospects, including a project at Walk Hill with Wachusett under Article 80 review, and a smaller venture near Tower Street. Association members emphasized their commitment to engage in these conversations alongside the JP Neighborhood Council.

Forest Hills Cemetery access sparked heated debate, with the Councilor's office pushing for greater community involvement. Recent changes, such as the dissolution of an educational trust that funded popular events like the Lantern Festival, drew criticism from residents.

Looking ahead, attendees proposed a range of topics for future discussions, from the Arborway bus yard development to tree care and MBTA bus stop improvements.

The meeting concluded with a robust action plan: accelerating street calming measures, advocating for increased cemetery access, and closely monitoring the Hyde Park Avenue redesign. With the next gathering tentatively set for November, Forest Hills residents demonstrated their unwavering commitment to community betterment.

This assembly underscored the neighborhood's collective resolve to confront local challenges head-on. As Forest Hills charts its course forward, engaged citizens will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter, more vibrant community for all.