By June of 2018, all Greenline stations will be completed through College Ave.

By Emmanuel Vincent

This past Thursday, June 7, a Ward 7 community meeting was the held at the Tufts Administration Building.  It was the first of two meetings that will take place this year. Approximately 100 people were in attendance. They had a chance to get feedback and also were able to ask questions if they needed answers. The speakers at the meeting included members of the police force and Mayor Curtatone.

One of the issues addressed was the public school system. Mayor Curtatone suggested that everyone in the audience should invest in the Public School system, as most were either children in the school system or have children currently in it. The emphasis on education was stressed. Ways that the mayor suggested investing in the education of the Somerville youth included the incorporation of a Foreign Program for 7th and 8th graders, increased after school tutoring and the Expansion of Parent/Guardian Outreach.

Another topic that was addressed was the pubic safety of the members of Ward 7 and of their personal belongings. The audience was informed that there have been nine reported assaults in Ward 7 this year and six arrests were made so far. In addition, it was advised that people do not leave items such as laptop cases and cash in plain sight while left in an automobile. This will decrease the chances of a thief attempting to break into one’s car.

There was also an update on the extension of the Green Line. In the fall, the beginning of bridgework over Medford and Harvard Street will take place. By June of 2018, all stations will be completed through College Ave.

There was good feedback from the event. Mayor Curtatone believed that this was due to the interest that the community had in it. “They have an interest in the budget,” the mayor said. “They are interested in what affects their everyday life.” After the meeting, attendees enjoyed refreshments and social interaction.