Waste Site Cleanup & Reuse in New England
Showcase Communities: Lowell, Massachusetts
- Tsongas Arena and LeLacheur Park
- Contacts
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This Brownfields Showcase Community was completed before the signing of the 2002 Brownfields Legislation. The Assessment Demonstration Pilot Program is now called the Assessment Grant Program and the Job Training Pilot Program is now called the Job Training Program. |
Tsongas Arena.
Tsongas Arena
This site, which contained contaminants such as chlorinated solvents,
polyaromatic hydrocarbons, asbestos, and heavy metals since the 1800's,
now hosts the Paul Tsongas Arena and Lawn. The City utilized the EPA Brownfields Assessment Demonstration
Pilot grant to identify the extent of contamination on the site.
The 7,800-seat arena, named after US Senator Paul Tsongas, opened
on January, 1998. He was instrumental in acquiring the funding for
the project. Concerts and local sporting events are held in the arena
throughout the year. The arena also maintains a lawn with a 3,500
person capacity for outdoor concerts, festivals, and special events.
In addition, continuing efforts will result in a wrap-around walk
called Riverwalk.
Aerial photo of LeLacheur Park.
LeLacheur Park
This site was a former junkyard and ash dump. The City utilized the
EPA Brownfields Assessment Demonstration
Pilot grant to identify the extent of contamination on the site.
The redevelopment of the site was achieved through a collaboration
among state, federal and local governments. The 4,710-seat stadium
opened on June 22, 1998, and is now home to both local baseball and
football teams.The ballpark was named after retired State Representative
Edward A. LeLacheur, a crucial player in securing state funding for
the Assessment Pilot.