Bernie Cooper Park a new treasure

What was once a fenced-off jungle of overgrowth and invasive species is now an open, peaceful place to run, to stroll, to sit and enjoy the outdoors. Though the many new plantings will need some time to mature and invasive species remediation must continue, the layout of the park and the thoughtfulness of the design already stand out. You can sit in the shade or soak up the sun from various points. You can lounge on the lookout platform and admire the Neponset River below, or wander down to its bank and watch the water flow. You can listen to the rush of Hawes Brook as it spills into the river. You can sit and chat or enjoy a snack at one of the many picnic tables.

Of particular importance, the park is accessible to those with mobility challenges. The crushed gravel trails are smooth and flat. The park’s main outer loop measures just under 0.4-mile in distance, with several connector trails within to shorten a trip if needed, and there are plenty of benches placed throughout to rest and enjoy the atmosphere.

The outdoor classroom space presents an exciting opportunity for students at the neighboring Balch School to have a break from walls and screens and learn while surrounded by nature. The park remains woodsy enough that wildlife watchers will still be able to spot plenty of deer and other critters wandering through. The river access provides an easy drop-in point for kayakers.

There is so much to love within this space already, and so much potential for the years ahead. As we walked along the park’s southern edge, I gazed across Hawes Brook and saw the fenced-off, almost always empty overflow car lot on the land between Hawes Brook and Morse Street. Imagine if that were an extension of the park, perhaps with a dog park for pups to romp and a playground for children. Imagine dropping a foot bridge over Hawes Brook and connecting Bernie Cooper Riverfront Park to that space, creating direct pedestrian and bike access from the park to the Norwood Space Center via a beautiful, tree-covered corridor.

In the days and weeks ahead, I encourage you to explore the new park. Enjoy the amenities, dream about new possibilities, and feel proud to have this special space in our town.

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Chris Wristen

Town Meeting Member, District 5