Overview
- The Supreme Judicial Court heard arguments Wednesday as construction continues under a 2024 Superior Court ruling that let the project proceed.
- At issue is Article 97, a state constitutional protection for public parkland that requires a two-thirds vote of the Legislature to change a park’s use.
- Opponents led by the Emerald Necklace Conservancy argue the Franklin Park site cannot be leased for pro games without that vote, saying public access would be curtailed.
- Boston says White Stadium has long operated as a Boston Public Schools facility owned by the George Robert White Fund and will keep school and community use, with up to 20 Boston Legacy FC home games each year.
- The $325 million plan includes $135 million from the city and $190 million from the team, which also commits to more than $62 million in rent, upkeep, and park and community benefits, as the attorney general and municipal groups back the city and conservation coalitions support the lawsuit.