06_11_2027

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

SOUTH BOSTON ONLINE

VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74

The Renovation of the Anne M. Lynch Homes at Old Colony Is Complete

by Rick Winterson

O

n Monday, a c o m m u n i t y ceremony was held in a newly landscaped outdoor space at the Anne M. Lynch Homes at Old Colony. This space is located within the Lynch Homes between 110 Mercer and 319 East Eighth Streets.

The ceremony marked the formal opening of the renovated/rebuilt apartments in the Old Colony complex of assisted living units.

Approximately 80 years ago in the 1940s, the Old Colony complex for assisted living was

first opened. It contained 840 apartment units of var ying sizes. But after more than three generations of occupancy, the buildings had become obsolete and in a less-than-desirable state of repair. Beacon Communities,

a developer, and the Boston Housing Authority joined forces early in this century and have just completed a total reconstruction of the site, which now contains nearly 900 affordable units as well as certain South Boston

c om mu n it y or g a n i z a t ion s .

The entire Old Colony project broke ground in 2011 and included six phases over the next 15 years, concluding in Continued on Page 2

South Boston Neighborhood House Rededicates and Expands Diaper Depot

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he South Boston Neighborhood House celebrated the rededication and expansion of Ollie’s Diaper Depot on Wednesday morning, marking a major milestone for a program that has become a vital resource for hundreds of local families.

Community leaders, elected officials, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and families gathered at the South Boston Neighborhood House Preschool on Columbia Road to celebrate the addition of a second operational shipping container, allowing the Diaper Depot to expand its reach and serve even more families in need. Donors and supporters who were recognized at the ceremony included Tommy Butler from Massport, Kahlil Olmstead from the Select Group, and representatives from the South Boston MOMS Club, Colin’s Joy Project, and the United Way.

“This amazing expansion of the Ollie’s Diaper Depot” represents “a rededication of the amazing work that we all do together to support the families here in South Boston,” said South Boston Neighborhood House Executive Director Kathy Lafferty.

The depot distributes diapers twice a month. Lafferty praised the volunteers and staff members who make the operation possible.

“They are here twice a month, year round, to distribute diapers to 700 families each month, and without them, this just would not happen,” she said.

The idea for the Diaper Depot originated with Cheryl Itri, Director of Early Education and Care Programs and Director of Family Engagement at South Boston Neighborhood House.

What began as a simple concept for a “diaper closet” has grown into one of the neighborhood’s most impactful family support programs.

Speaking at the ceremony, Itri recalled pitching the idea during a fundraising event right before Covid. After explaining the growing need among families, longtime supporter Jon Cronin stepped

in with an unexpected solution.

“Ladies, I got you a shipping container for your diapers,” Itri remembered him saying.

With help from Amazon, one of Continued on Page 3

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Continued from Page 1

Anne M. Lynch Homes

March of 2026. It somehow seems fitting that this award-

winning project was completed in the nation’s 250th Anniversary year during the month that c ont a i n s Evac u at ion Day. Many speakers took part in the Lynch Homes opening ceremony.

Resident Phyllis Corbitt reminisced about her 50 years in Old Colony. Mayor Wu expressed her joy at attending the opening ceremony of the Anne M. Lynch Homes. State Sen. Nick Collins thanked all of the funding sources that financed the successful renovation/rebuilding; Rep. David Biele expressed his own satisfaction with the entire redevelopment. Congressman Stephen Lynch perhaps struck

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the most memorable note, when he pointed out that the Lynch Homes “have now become a true community”, not just a place to live. He compared the current status of the development with his own time living there as a youngster.

The presentation concluded with a one-act play performed by Michale Dowling, Phyllis Corbitt, and guests.

The entire new development of Anne M. Lynch Homes at Old Colony is definitely worth a walk-through.

It extends along Columbia Road and Day Boulevard from the Preble Street traffic circle, where the main entrance is located, all

the way to the intersection of Columbia Road and Old Harbor Street, where the nowcompleted new apa r tments (mentioned above) are located.

You’ll complete your walkthrough at the intersection of Columbia and Old Harbor.

Pause there and take a few moments to look at the newest Lynch Homes building. It is five stories high and very well designed. This final addition stretches down Old Harbor from East Eighth and around the corner onto Columbia, where it looks out on the Bay and then joins with previously upgraded parts of the Old Colony complex.

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Continued from Page 1

Diaper Depot

the depot’s first sponsors, the container was quickly filled with supplies.

“We opened a diaper depot on a crisp, actually a freezing Saturday morning in February of 2022 really with no plan,” Itri said. “We were just giving away diapers and wipes.”

The numbers tell the story of the program’s rapid growth.

During its first year, the depot distributed 8,438 packs of diapers.

That number increased to 10,596 packs in 2023, 10,848 in 2024, and 12,958 in 2025. This year alone, the organization has already distributed more than 3,000 packs.

According to Itri, the Diaper Depot has now provided more than 1

million individual diapers to thousands of children and families. “That is a total of 1,000,146 single diapers,” she said.

The impact extends beyond diapers. What began as a distribution site has evolved into a broader community resource. Families now exchange clothing, books, toys, strollers, high chairs, and other essential baby items through an informal “baby boutique.”

“One week we started putting some clothes on the table, and it just turned into this beautiful clothing swap,” Itri said.

For families who rely on the program, the support goes far beyond material assistance.

Johanna, a parent who uses the Diaper Depot, spoke about the

THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

difference it has made for her family.

“Diaper Depot has made a real and lasting difference in our lives during a time when even basic necessities feel out of reach,” she said. “Your support provided not only diapers, but also dignity, relief, and peace of mind.”

Johanna described the depot as “more than just a resource,” calling it “a lifeline for families like mine.”

Several elected officials attended the ceremony, including State Senator Nick Collins, State Representative David Biele, and City Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy. Each highlighted the importance of collaboration among community organizations, businesses, nonprofits, and government partners.

Representative Biele pointed to

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the broad coalition of support visible on the sponsor sign displayed on the depot.

“The South Boston community shows up,” he said. “The entire neighborhood shows up when called on.”

Lafferty noted that the success of the Diaper Depot reflects the mission South Boston Neighborhood House has carried out for 125 years. The Ollie works to meet the evolving needs of the community.

“Today, we continue that mission by ensuring that families have access to one of the most basic yet overlooked necessities, diapers,” she said. “Life is hard, and when you’re a parent and you have to make the decision between buying a pack of diapers and putting food on the table, that’s just a decision that no family should have to make.”

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Diaper Depot Continued

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Polish Fest Boston Neighbors, families, and community leaders came together at the Polish Fest Boston to celebrate the rich culture, traditions, and contributions of Boston’s Polish community. From the music and food to the incredible sense of pride and community on display, the festival was a wonderful reminder of the diversity that makes our city so strong. Boston is proud to be home to a vibrant Polish community whose hard work, resilience, and commitment to family have helped shape their neighborhoods for generations.

Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, performers, and everyone who made this year’s festival such a success. We look forward to continuing to celebrate and support the cultures and communities that make Boston such a special place to call home.

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Senator Collins Votes for Teacher’s RetirementPlus Bill Legislation would give thousands of eligible educators another opportunity to enroll in RetirementPlus

S

enator Nick Collins joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts Senate in unanimously passing legislation that would provide thousands of public-school teachers with a new opportunity to enroll in the RetirementPlus pension program.

The bill reopens the enrollment window on a one-time basis for eligible educators who missed the opportunity to join the program when it was first implemented more than two decades ago.

“Throughout this process, we heard from educators and advocates who made a compelling case that many teachers never had a meaningful opportunity to participate in RetirementPlus,” said Senator Collins.

“After dedicating decades to educating our children and strengthening our

communities, these educators deserve a retirement system that works for them.

This legislation helps ensure that the Commonwealth is standing by the people who have spent their careers standing by the next generation.”

The legislation, S.3109, An Act Relative to Teacher Retirement Election, would allow current teachers who were active when RetirementPlus was first introduced in 2001 another opportunity to enroll in the enhanced pension program. Eligible educators would have until June 30, 2027, to evaluate their options and decide whether participation is right for them.

The legislation also requires the Teachers’ Retirement System and the Boston Retirement System to provide direct notice to eligible educators so that teachers are fully informed of this new enrollment opportunity.

The bill passed the Massachusetts Senate unanimously and now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

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THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Hearing on Firearm Trafficking Report

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oston City Councilors Ed Flynn, Brian Worrell, and Miniard Culpepper filed a hearing order to discuss the findings of the 2025 Firearm Trafficking Report by the Boston Police Department. In October of 2022, the City Council unanimously adopted a resolution declaring gun violence as a public health emergency. In November of 2023, the Boston City Council approved an ordinance from Councilor Flynn and Councilor Worell requiring the Boston Police Department to study the trafficking of illegal firearms and publish a report every year on their findings.

Gun violence is a leading cause of death and injuries in this country, causing harm to not only the individual, but also to communities that experience gun violence in their neighborhoods.

According to Boston Police Crime Stats, from January 1, 2025 to December 28, 2025, there were 122 shooting victims.

Gun trafficking and illegal f low of firearms is a major contributor to gun violence, with the Boston Police recovering 819 tota l illegal firearms in 2025, down from 901 in 2024. There were 470 arrests for firearm related charges in 2025. 73 of the arrests were juveniles, an increase of 13% compared to 2024. With growing concerns relating to “ghost guns,” an illegal firearm that is either not registered, or made from a 3D printer, it is critical that the Boston Police Department continue

to collect data to help law enforcement and policymakers better understand the impact of illega l gun tra f f ick ing.

According to the report, 54 crime guns recovered were privately manufactured, or “ghost guns”.

“With ongoing concerns relating to gun violence in the Boston area, including a shooting at a hotel near TD Garden, a shooting on Memorial Drive in Cambridge involving a rif le, and a shooting leaving one person dead on Bowdoin Street, its critical that we closely evaluate last year’s illegal firearm traff icking report to reduce gun violence in Boston,” said Councilor Flynn. “I want to thank the hard working men and women at the Boston Police Department for always answering the call to keep our city safe.”

“The annual firearms report is crucial data to inform not only our policing but where we need to increase resources that address the issues that lead to violence,” said City Councilor Brian Worrell (District 4).

“It’s important to ensure we step up this year to fund the resources where they’re needed.”

“We have a profound obligation to our residents to turn our city’s data into purposeful legislative action. Alongside this order filed to examine the 2025 Firearm Report, I filed a hearing order on firearm trafficking, gun violence, and firearm violations in Police Districts B-2 and B-3.

Because the data reveals a deeply concerning concentration of gun violence in my district, right at the heart of our city. Both of these hearing orders are a vital first step toward uncovering root causes and building lasting solutions for a safer Boston,” said Councilor Culpepper.

For more information, plea se contact C ou nci lor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or E d . F l y n n @B o s t on .g ov.

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THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

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Flood Resiliency Conference A Much-Needed First Step

by Rick Winterson

A

meeting entitled “Flood Resiliency Conference” took place in a meeting hall at 290 Congress Street, The Host Sponsor of this gathering was Save the Harbor/Save the Bay, a nonprofit organization headquartered in South Boston, located on the Fish Pier, and familiar to all of us who use the local beaches – especially Carson Beach near the McCormack Bathhouse.

T he C on f ere nc e was well attended and very well organized. It began promptly at 9 a.m. with a brief welcoming address from Chris Mancini, the Executive Director of Save the Harbor/Save the Bay. This was followed with a short statement of the Conference’s objectives

by Bill Golden, Co-Leader of the Resilient Options Group at Engineering Systems, Inc. After that, the Conference was divided into two parts. The first was entitled “Planning for Flood Impacts of Climate Change” and consisted of five expert speakers. The second was called “The Transition from Planning to Implementation: T he Missing Links” and featured an additional four expert speakers.

Question-and Answer sessions followed each of these two parts.

Some of the important points that came up during the first part of the program dealt with current

plans for a resilient coastline in Massachusetts (by Julia Knisel), f lood control along the Charles River basin ( Julie Wood), and climate resilience in the City of Boston (Nayelli Rodriguez).

Plans for a so-called “working water f ront” (Capt. Rober t McCabe) reminded ever yone of the commercial importance of f lood control in Boston Harbor. A brief, informative talk about planning for f lood insurance costs and availability (Charles Sidoti) ended the first session. Several questions and their answers then followed.

The second part of the program began with a discussion of various options in organizing an overall f lood resilience effort (Bill Golden). This was followed by a presentation of the many ways to finance f lood control projects (Joel Paulson), while establishing a “political will” in the modern climate of intense social media (Robert Durand). A carefully calculated presentation of the many actual costs of delaying

f lood resilience efforts (Stefani Harrison) concluded the second part of the Conference. Questions and answers followed also.

It’s a pleasure to report that effective organizing resulted in a swiftly moving Conference that ended just after 12:30 – just as was planned. The Conference closed with a short summary of the next actions required, in order to quickly move Flood Resilience efforts forward from here on.

In South Boston Online’s opinion, this Flood Resiliency Conference was a very important

event. Obviously, Boston’s flood resiliency efforts must continue.

Just recall what occurred here only six years ago in early 2018.

Record high tides during a powerful winter storm on January 4 and 5 of that year caused substantial flooding at Fort Point, in the Channel, and over many areas around South Boston’s newly constructed Seaport District. And this continues.

As recently as 2024, high tides of more than 14 feet (the fourth highest tide ever measured) also led to significant f looding.

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THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

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Mayor Wu Announces Extension of Operating Hours for Bars and Restaraunts in Boston Temporary extension to allow establishments to stay open one hour past their regular time Following recent passage of state law, Mayor Michelle Wu today announced a temporary extension to allow bars and restaurants to serve alcohol for an extra hour. This measure will allow businesses currently licensed to sell alcohol until 2:00 a.m. to extend service until 3:00 a.m. through the end of July.

With this extension and other initiatives, the City is expanding economic opportunities for Boston bu sine sse s du ring one of the region’s busiest summers in recent years.

“We’re eager for Boston’s small businesses to share in the economic opportunities created by this summer’s special events, building on our recent progress expanding nightlife and late-hour activity. We’ve seen real interest

and benefit from initiatives like our Late Night Food Truck program creating new jobs and supporting the late-night workforce,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Businesses can fill out our online form and receive same day approval to extend closing hours, creating even more welcoming places to gather and enjoy the summer events together.”

Businesses that currently hold licences to serve alcohol until 2:00 a.m. can apply through the City of Boston Licensing Board to extend alcohol and/or entertainment hours until 3:00 a.m. Licensed operators with earlier closing times may also submit an application to extend by an additional hour.

“Extending serving hours will help enhance the exciting summer activities that will be occurring all across the City of Boston. By making these changes it will create a fun atmosphere for residents and tourists alike and will enhance the economy for all our residents,”

sa id Representative A a ron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “I want to thank Mayor Wu and her administration for their tireless work and the prompt implementation of this critica l initiative.”

“This is a great opportunity to support our small businesses and create a more fun environment as we prepare to welcome the world to Boston”, said City Council President Liz Breadon. “Boston residents a nd new visitors alike will be able to better enjoy the upcoming festivities with this sensible change.”

“You can’t host the world on a bedtime”, said Cit y Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune.

“E xpa nded la st ca ll gives Boston an opportunity to meet the moment, support loca l businesses, and show visitors that our city can be as vibrant after dark as it is during the day.” “ T he Lic ensing Boa rd welcomes the opportunity to help Boston’s businesses participate in what is shaping up to be one of the city’s busiest and most exciting summers in histor y. I look forward to reviewing applications and supporting businesses as they showcase the vibrancy of Boston’s neighborhoods,” said Kathleen Joyce, Chair of the Boston Licensing Board.

“We expect all licensees to assist us in making this a successful summer by operating responsibly and prioritizing the safety and well-being of our residents and visitors.”

Establishments that have not received an extension on alcohol or entertainment hours must continue to adhere to the approved closing hours on t heir a nnu a l lic ense.

In addition, the City will soon announce a designated social district where public consumption of alcohol will be

permitted. The details will be shared at a later date. Outside of licensed premises and Citydesignated socia l districts, ind iv idu a ls a re prohibited from consuming alcohol or possessing open containers.

“To fully capita lize on the rebirth of our commercial core, Boston needs innovative tools that challenge the status quo,” said Michael J. Nichols, President of the Downtown Boston Alliance. “We’re grateful to both the State and the City for enacting a policy change that delivers exactly the kind of f lexible tool that helps realize i m med iate sma l l bu si ne ss support and catalyzes long-term economic impact. By establishing social districts, we aren’t just making Boston a more fun and engaging place to visit and live— we are actively driving the foot traffic our vibrant small business community relies upon to thrive.”

This summer, Boston is hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026™ fan festival, Sail Boston, and Boston 250, welcoming visitors from a round the world to experience the city’s history, culture, and strong neighborhoods. From iconic largescale celebrations to communitybased programming like watch parties and small business activations, Boston is creating dynamic, welcoming experiences in every corner of the city. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Neighborhood Business Guide to discover local restaurants, shops, and activities this Summer.

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ZONING BOARD OF APPEAL / LICENSING HEARINGS

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556 E Broadway South Boston 02127

To participate in ZBA hearings, below are instructions on joining a public meeting. Please note that the ZBA board will call on members of the public to testify for each proposal; you can share your thoughts in that forum

Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 7/14/26 Project Description: Change of occupancy from a 3 family to a 2 family. Renovate the entire interior of the existing building includes new structural framing, mechanicals, electrical, fixtures and finishes throughout.

176 L ST South Boston 02127

590 E Eighth ST South Boston 02127

Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 6/16/26 Project Description: The homeowner seeks to erect a 4th story addition to increase living space with no change to occupancy.

62 L ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 6/16/26 Project Description: Replace existing exterior stairs and construct a new roof deck.

744 E Fourth ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 6/16/26 BOA App# BOA1850007 contact Richard Lynds Project Description: Raze existing 4 Unit Dwelling and replace with new 4 Story, 6-Unit Building with (9**) Garage parking spaces.*Razing of Existing dwelling to be reviewed and approved on a separate SF demolition permit.**Number of parking spaces increased from 8 to 9 and building height reduced to 39’-7” at BOA 1.27.26

62 to 64 Baxter ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 7/14/26 Project Description: Build a new roof deck with a pergola per attached architectural drawings. Access to the roof deck with stairs and hatch are already existing. Unit 4 ONLY.

128 G ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 7/14/26 Project Description: Confirming and legalizing third unit in basement.

Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 7/14/26 Project Description: Change of occupancy from two family to single family (existing condition). Renovation on part of the second floor and expanded at the third floor

63 Telegraph ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 7/14/26 Project Description: New roof & dormer addition to existing unit 2. Addition of 250sf added on rear side of building. No change in occupancy or use. Reworking the rear egress stair.

Community Meeting: South Boston High School Building Update June 22, 6pm - 7pm BCYF Tynan, 650 E Fourth Street Please join for a City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services + Boston Public Schools community meeting regarding the former Excel High School / South Boston High School building. We will provide an update on preparation activities that have occurred over the past year including a building renovation, and the identification of a new school community to be housed at this historic site.

Moakley Park Community Update June 27, 12-2pm Moakley Park Join the Moakley design team for an in-person community meeting at the park on June 27th for food, music, and activities to learn more about the park project and share your thoughts

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THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

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he students in the Early Education Center in Grades K0 and K1 and the students at South Boston Catholic Academy in Grades K2 to 6th did an amazing job performing in this year’s Spring Concerts. Some of the “Sweet and Silly” songs wonderfully performed by the students in the EEC included…”

Animal Crackers in My Soup,” “Sweet Caroline”, and “Do-Re-Mi”. Some

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Two Wonderful Spring Concerts of the “No Way but Broadway” songs wonderfully performed by the students at SBCA included…” Circle of Life”, Singin’ in the Rain” and “My Girl”.

Our Principal, Dr. Helenann Civian, and our EEC Director, Mrs. Kara Murphy Thanked our very talented students for their fantastic performances, and they Thanked the Music Teacher, Mr. Carlo Bunyi for teaching the students the songs, for putting together

these two great Spring Concerts and wonderfully singing “Some Enchanted Evening” at the SBCA Concert. They Thanked all our dedicated teachers and staff and all our wonderful parents/ families for making these thoroughly enjoyable Spring Concerts possible.

Dr. Civian Thanked our talented Art Teacher, Mrs. Valerie Hasko and our awesome 6th graders for making the colorful banner to decorate the front

of the stage. Dr. Civian congratulated Father Peter Schirripa on his new assignment as the Assistant Director of Vocations for the Archdiocese of Boston as well as the Catholic Chaplain at MIT Catholic Center. Dr. Civian also welcomed back home to South Boston, her former boss, who recently retired as Rector of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in the South End of Boston, Monsignor Kevin O’Leary.

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THURSDAY JUNE 11, 2026

Flynn Refiles Resolution in Support of Criminalizing Sexual Assault on Rideshare Passengers

CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court

Docket No.

CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION

SU25P1647EA

Suffolk Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Maureen M Monahan

24 New Chardon Street Boston, MA 02114 (617)788-8300

Date of Death: 04/19/2025 To all interested persons:

A Petition for S/A - Formal Probate of Will with Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by Frances Rizza

of

Quincy

MA

requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition.

The Petitioner requests that: Frances Rizza

of

Quincy

MA

be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before:

10:00 a.m. on the return day of 07/09/2026 .

This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you.

UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration.

WITNESS, Hon. Janine D Rivers, First Justice of this Court.

Date:

June 04, 2026 Stephanie L Everett, Esq., Register of Probate

PUBLISH ONLY THE CITATION ABOVE Andrew T Doggett, Esq. Andrew T. Doggett, Esq. 112 Water St Floor 2 Boston, MA 02109

page

MPC 560 (2/22/24)

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of

The City of Boston’s Planning Department invites residents to participate in planning that will help shape the future of the City.

You can sign up to receive Planning Department emails and learn about opportunities to get involved here: bosplans.org/GetInvolved

BostonPlans.org

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

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he D e p a r t me nt of Public Utilities he ld a publ ic hearing on proposed updates to Transportation Net work C omp a ny ( T NC ) s a fe t y regulations to enhance public safety, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn refiled a resolution in support of criminalizing sexual assault on rideshare passengers.

Councilor Flynn also sent a letter to the Department of Public UItilities in advance of the state hearing in support of Bill S. 1247 An Act criminalizing sexual assault of a passenger by a rideshare operator. This bill would effectively treat ride-share drivers (Uber/Lyft) as people in a position of trust, similar to a police officer with a person in custody, and eliminating consent as a defense for a ride-share driver.

It would make it illegal for a driver to have relations with a passenger.

In February of 2025, a woman was allegedly raped by her Uber driver after she left a bar alone. The next day, her friends encouraged her to contact the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center, who guided her through her next steps. After obtaining a sexual assault test kit, she was told that there was not enough evidence to move the case to trial.

Prosecutors at the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Unit reportedly indicated that in order to move forward with a trial, they would have to prove that the rideshare

driver knew that the victim was too intoxicated to give consent.

This follows years of reported incidents on sexual assault on passengers by rideshare drivers in the City of Boston and across the Commonwealth. In February, a woman was allegedly sexually assaulted by her rideshare driver when travelling from an establishment in South Boston to her home. In 2018, a driver was charged with exposing himself to two women near Downtown Crossing. In 2015, another driver was convicted of aggravated rape, kidnapping, assault and battery.

In November 2025, the Boston Cit y Council unanimously adopted Councilor Flynn’s resolution in support of S. 1247.

Ensuring the safety of all residents - particularly young women - who use rideshares is critical. While the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU ) currently reg u lates T NCs, including rideshare drivers, services, and companies, Councilor Flynn has advocated for years that the Boston Police Department play a larger role in regulating and providing oversight on public safety issues regarding rideshares in our City.

“Incidents of sexual assault on rideshares continue to be deeply disturbing, unsettling for residents, and all too frequent across the City of Boston.

Ensuring the safety of all of our residents, especially young women, is critical,” said Councilor Flynn. “This bill is a common sense approach to try to protect those in a vulnerable state, and do all that we can to prevent similar incidents from happening again.”

For more information, ple a se c ont ac t C ou nci lor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or E d . F l y n n @ B o s t on . g ov.

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