New Winthrop Fire Station
Dear Editor,
I commend Councilor Pat Costigan for his innovative proposal to construct a new central fire station on the site of the Walden Street basketball courts which is more than large enough to accommodate such a facility, as demonstrated by the new Revere Point-of-Pines two bay, state-of-the-art fire station, built on a 16,000 square foot site, less than half the size of the basketball courts which could also accommodate all of the required parking needs. This plan would prevent the beautiful and historic Wadsworth Building from being demolished as proposed last year. Of course, the basketball courts would be relocated to an appropriate location.
In addition, I recommend that the Town capitalize on the imminent renewal of the MWRA/Winthrop PILOT Agreement by requesting the Agency construct and operate a new satellite fire station on or about the Deer Island Sewerage Plant to serve the fire security needs of the Point Shirley and adjacent neighborhoods. This might compensate for the closure of the Shirley Street Fire Station at a cost saving to the Town.
Thank you,
John Vitagliano
Former Boston Transportation Commissioner