John M. Corcoran & Company and SMT Development host opening of new 7,000 s/f park

Somerville, MA John M. Corcoran & Company (JMC) and SMT Development joined with the city and mayor Katjana Ballantyne to celebrate the city’s newest park at 346 Somerville Ave., adjacent to the companies’ new residential building, Union 346. Named for Martha Perry Lowe, the greenspace is 7,000 s/f and includes café seating, benches, hammock stations, and an open lawn area surrounded by tasteful landscaping. In addition to mayor Ballantyne, the ribbon-cutting was also attended by councilor J.T. Scott, numerous other city officials, and members of the neighborhood. 

“I want to thank the Union 346 team including Corcoran & Company for joining with the city and the community to create this wonderful new pocket park,” said mayor Ballantyne. “When Somerville changed its zoning to require qualifying developments to provide public open spaces, we couldn’t have hoped for a better project partner. The team at Union 346 honored public feedback, worked collaboratively with the city, and made sure that this great new small park would help meet our great big goals to provide more green spaces designed to meet the needs of our neighborhoods. From the trees and native plants to the stormwater features and hammock posts, this park will serve our community for years to come.” 

“Our partnership with the city has resulted in a beautiful green space for the community and our residents to enjoy,” said Tim Corcoran of JMC. “As Union Sq. continues to evolve, Union 346 brings not only this park to the neighborhood, but a new high-quality living option.” 

Martha Perry Lowe (1829-1902) was a founder of the Women’s Educational Union in the city, active in the Associated Charities, which gave work to poor women; the Heptorean Club, the first women’s club in the city; president of the Suffrage League; and president of the Women’s Alliance of the First Unitarian Church. 

 Union 346, a 94-unit apartment community that includes 2,000 s/f of ground floor retail, is a joint venture partnership between JMC, The Grossman Companies, Inc., and SMT Development. Located in Union Sq., one of Greater Boston’s most popular neighborhoods, this transit-oriented development is close to 18 restaurants, nine entertainment venues, and many public transportation options, including the new Green Line Extension.