May 2, 2024
Re: RFR ENV 25 MVP 01 – Letter of Support for Flood Storage and Bank Restoration Along Cheesecake
Brook
Dear Ms. ———,
I am writing to express support for the City of Newton’s application for the FY2025 Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Action Grant to implement flood storage beneath the proposed Craft Street playing field and bank restoration along Cheesecake Brook. I am president of Friends of Albemarle, a 501(c)3 nonprofit with more than 500 members representing all 8 wards of the city, including half of city council and several state representatives. Our mission is to advocate for this crucial 17-acre asset that is the largest swath of open space in Newton north of the Pike.
Albemarle’s future is fully interdependent with that of Cheesecake Brook, a vulnerable area that requires proactive measures in mitigating the impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable areas such as Cheesecake Brook.
Cheesecake Brook, as a tributary of the Charles River, plays a significant role in the fabric of Newton, providing valuable access to nature and a place to walk and relax for residents. However, the increasing frequency and severity of flooding events pose a significant threat to the health, safety, and well-being of our community members and infrastructure.
We agree that the City of Newton must prioritize resilience planning and take proactive steps to address the challenges posed by climate change. I am confident that the successful implementation of this project will strengthen our community’s resilience as well as the public’s use and enjoyment of a valued natural space.
We urge the review committee to give full consideration to the City of Newton’s application for the FY2025 MVP Action Grant. This investment in resilience will yield long-term benefits for our community and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for all residents in our community.
Sincerely,
President, Friends of Albemarle
Friends of Albemarle 