BOSTON — Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Boston Unity Soccer Partners have reached a lease deal to use White Stadium as the home for Boston’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team.
The renovation and ongoing lease arrangement will transform the facilities and opportunities for Boston Public School students, Franklin Park lovers, and all community members.
The new White Stadium complex will anchor youth sports in Boston with state-of-the-art facilities for multiple sports, as well as modern locker rooms, sports medicine, strength and conditioning for all students, and a much-desired community event space.
“Delivering excellent education for BPS students includes ensuring the fullest access to sports, arts, and enrichment of every kind across the city. White Stadium is a generational opportunity to anchor citywide youth sports, revitalize community programming, and bolster our beloved, historic Franklin Park–all while creating a home for the City of Champions’ newest professional team,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.
The lease is set for 10 years, with two 10-year extensions. Boston Unity will be required to pay the city $400,000 a year in rent, with annual increases of 3%.
“We are incredibly proud that our team’s home will be in the heart of the city through this generational public-private-community partnership to revitalize White Stadium,” said Jennifer Epstein, Controlling Owner of Boston Unity Soccer Partners.
“I’m so grateful for all the community members, coaches, students, and park lovers who helped shape this project to reflect the community’s dreams for the next generation. Thank you to Boston Unity Soccer Partners for their commitment to our students and community, and their comprehensive investment to make this dream a reality,” Wu added.
The lease will be required to pay 10% of advertising revenue and 3% of concession revenue to the city.
Demolition for the stadium can begin early in 2025, Wu said and work must be completed by December 1, 2026.
The full lease agreement can be found here.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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