THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, JAnuARy 26, 2024 Page 3 ~ Op-Ed ~ National Grid not fulfi lling their promise to Everett By Katy Rogers, Councillor-at-Large E verett residents deserve the same opportunities as all communities in the state of Massachusetts. National Grid is doing a disservice to the people of Everett, and it is imperative Everett residents are aware of this injustice. National Grid has failed to fulfill their legally mandated obligation to the City of Everett under Chapter 91, in which residents are entitled to twenty-four-hour public access along our waterfront. For decades, the vast majority of Everett residents have been barred from entry to our riverfront property which we are warranted to under Massachusetts law. Without National Grid’s compliance, an existing multi-million-dollar pathway connecting Everett, Malden, and Medford remains incomplete. Residents of Everett should know that all other waterfront partners, including Encore Boston Harbor and Gateway Mall, have complied with the city to do their fair share of responsibility in public access. For several years, National Grid has dodged their commitment. For context, Chapter 91 is triggered by certain activities, such as building and altering structures, fi lling, dredging, and demolition. National Grid has made at least three modifi cations to their property in Everett, instigating Chapter 91. National Grid is one of the largest utility companies in the world with a net income of more than 50 billion dollars. They are fully aware of their obligation and are the only entity standing in the way of a multi-municipality plan, which would ultimately connect Everett all the way to Marblehead. 80% of the pathway exists in Everett, but as it stands, National Grid currently has ‘No Trespassing’ signs on the land Everett residents are entitled to. It is time for National Grid to put the best interests of the people fi rst. We need not only to protect our environment, but celebrate it as well by preserving green spaces and ensuring our waterfront is accessible to all. As a partner to Everett, National Grid must be held to the standards they are obliged to under state legislation. Everett can and should be a leading example, and as City Councilors it is our responsibility to hold National Grid accountable for the Rivergreen Walkway which is long overdue to our constituents. 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Daily 4:00 PM Closed Sunday Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Monday & Tuesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s SHOP LOCAL & DROP BY FOR DINNER! www.eight10barandgrille.com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK ADVOCATE NEWSPAPER FACEBOOK.COM/ADVOCATE.NEWS.MA SABATINO INSURANCE AGENCY 519 BROADWAY EVERETT, MA 02149 Auto * Home * Boat * Renter * Condo * Life * Multi-Policy Discounts * Commercial 10% Discounts * Registry Service Also Available Sabatino Insurance is proud to welcome the loyal customers of PHONE: (617) 387-7466 FAX: (617) 381-9186 Visit us online at: WWW.SABATINO-INS.COM
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