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City officials, residents celebrate Andrew Square improvements, remember Waterman

Print | Comments () Posted by Patrick Rosso July 2, 2012 03:35 PM

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(Patrick D. Rosso/Boston.com/2012)

Mayor Thomas M. Menino, other local elected officials, and residents unveil the new memorial dedicated to Russ Waterman in Andrew Square.

By Patrick D. Rosso, Town Correspondent

Russ Waterman and John Mullen, two men who worked tirelessly to improve South Boston’s Andrew Square, were honored Saturday by Mayor Thomas M. Menino and other elected officials,

The square, which is a major hub of activity for pedestrians, T riders, and motorists, was once a confusing convergence of the many transit forms. Now, it has a fresh look with an improved landscaping, streets, and signals. The overhaul cost about $3 million.

“We’re just excited it’s looking so beautiful,” said Patty McCormick, secretary of the Andrew Square Civic Association. “It’s a lot safer to navigate as a pedestrian.”

“I think people really look after each other and the neighborhood when they have a space to be proud of,” added Lisa Sarno, an area resident.

Saturday’s ceremonies wouldn’t be possible if it were not for the two men.

The late Waterman and Mullen, who still lives in the neighborhood, together started the ASCA in the 1970s along with other concerned residents. The two were recognized for their commitment to the neighborhood, as Menino unveiled a plaque dedicated to Waterman.

“As elected officials we come and do all the ribbon cuttings and say nice words, but the people who do it are the ones in the neighborhoods,” the mayor said at the event. “Government works best when we work together to solve our problems.”

Waterman was hailed by residents and elected officials as a man who could get things done and never took no for an answer. A memorial to him in the square has been refurbished.

A veteran of World War II, Waterman is survived by his wife Joan and their five children.

Mullen also had his own share of stories about the neighborhood, Waterman, and the causes that the two championed together.

“We figured we better get something done,” Mullen told the crowd. “They always said no to us. It took us a long time to get things done and I’m happy I was part of it.”

Mullen currently doesn’t have a memorial in the square, but the ASCA is working to raise the funds for a fitting tribute. Since his time at the ASCA, Mullen has worked to help the neighborhood’s veterans.

“There are many people who worked to make this dream come true,” said Linda Zablocki, president of the ASCA. “No issue was too big or too small, they set the groundwork. When there is pride there is progress.”

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Email Patrick D. Rosso, patrick.d.rosso@gmail.com. Follow him @PDRosso, or friend him on Facebook.

(Patrick D. Rosso/Boston.com/2012)