By Joseph A. Curtatone

(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries and letters to the Editor of The Somerville Times belong solely to the authors and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville Times, its staff or publishers)

In September, the Prospect Hill Tower reopened to the public. The renovation and preservation of this historic landmark where George Washington raised our first national flag in 1776 marks the first project to be completed in Somerville with Community Preservation Act funds. Residents are now able to take a docent-led tour, climb the tower, and enjoy the panoramic views on select dates. There’s also an option for a virtual tour for those who are unable to climb the stairs. And all of that was made possible because of you, our residents, and your decision to adopt the Community Preservation Act.

When you voted overwhelmingly in favor of the Community Preservation Act back in November 2012, you voted to invest in your community. You chose to give back to your neighbors and yourselves, and I can’t tell you how proud that makes me – not just as your Mayor, but also as a lifelong Somerville resident.

Because of your dedication to preserving the history and unique character of our City, I wanted to give you an update on what the Community Preservation Act (CPA) has allowed us to do so far, what’s coming in the future, and how you can continue to be involved in the projects and process.

Since your vote in 2012, we’ve been able to give $9.8 million dollars for projects in the areas of affordable housing, historic preservation, and open space/recreation land that are aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents. This includes $1.7 million we’ve received in matching funds from the State in fiscal years 2015 and 2016. The good news is that we’ve made progress in each of these areas.

As I mentioned before, the Prospect Hill Tower renovation put these funds toward an important historic preservation project.  We’re working hard to meet the city’s needs in the other areas too. Our busy Community Path is about to get a face lift through two projects done in partnership with the Friends of the Community Path. Soon users of the path will have a new, smooth surface to bike, walk, roll, run, and stroll on. We’ll also be kicking off a design process to improve drainage on the Path and create more opportunities for activity and exploration.

CPA funds are also currently creating more than 40 units of affordable housing. Among them, the Somerville Housing Authority’s Mystic Waterworks project is going to transform the historic MWRA pump station to 25 units of affordable housing for seniors and the disabled.

These projects are just a snapshot of how your investment is benefitting our community, and we have many other projects in the works across the city. You may have also noticed that the tombs at Milk Row Cemetery have been repaired, seen the improved garden classrooms at eight of our community schools, or participated in design meetings for the Hoyt-Sullivan Playground or the Community Growing Center. While the progress on these projects and others is advancing community goals for our schools, city and neighborhoods, there is still work to do. And we want to hear your voice every step of the way.

There are plenty of ways to be involved. The Community Preservation Committee – which is responsible for selecting projects and submitting them for approval to the Board of Aldermen – is currently looking to fill a position. Additionally, there will also be an opportunity coming up in January for the general public to provide feedback to the committee on project applications through community meetings and written comments.

You can also join me, Groundwork Somerville and Somerville Public Schools at the East Somerville Community School Garden ribbon cutting on October 25. Members of the community will be able to propose projects for the next funding cycle that starts in August 2017. And, finally, you can sign up for the CPA email list to stay informed of important dates and events (visit http://www.somervillema.gov/cpa). These opportunities offer great ways to see your investment in action.

I know there are many ways to give back to your community, so I just want to thank you for voting to give back through the Community Preservation Act. The city has many needs and these funds help to fill in the gaps on projects that would be left undone otherwise.  But thanks to your generosity—and foresight, we are able to better maintain the history and resources of our community and make it healthier and greener, all while making it more affordable. Somervillians should be proud that you chose to invest locally and put your money where you live.