An unexpected location for public space
The October 2017 archive reported that Underground at Ink Block opened on September 9, 2017. The approximately eight-acre space beneath highway infrastructure connected the discussion of public recreation with the area between the South End and South Boston.
National Development and MassDOT’s InfraSpace work were part of the account, along with support from Reebok. The project combined pedestrian and bicycle space, a boardwalk, parking and opportunities for public art.
Murals as part of the park
Street Theory helped curate the artwork. Boston-based artist Sneha Shrestha contributed work drawing on her language, script and graffiti influences. New York artist Cey Adams described the connection between his mural and the community setting.
The murals were presented as integral to transforming an underpass into a place people might visit, rather than simply decorating an existing conventional park.
The opening was a dated event
The archive discussed an opening celebration with exercise activities and a block party, as well as sponsors including Sierra Nevada and Capital One Café. Those details referred to the September event, not an ongoing schedule.
This historical account does not certify current hours, parking access, program availability or conditions along a walking route. It records how the park’s opening and artwork were described in 2017, when the conversion of highway space drew attention.
Historical attribution: Original Boston City Properties article, October 2017. Reported claims and attributed assessments have not been independently refreshed.