BROCKTON DOWNTOWN - City of Brockton
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DOWNTOWN BROCKTON WELCOMES YOU
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
I. Welcome to Brockton IX. Keeping Brockton Healthy
II. A Conversation with X. Keeping Brockton Healthy
Mayor Robert F. Sullivan
XI. Arts & Education
III. Q&A with Rob May,
Planning and Economic XII. City Hall
Development Director
XIII. W.B. Mason: Brockton’s Multi-Billion
IV. City Councilors Make Dollar Home-Grown Business
Downtown a Priority
XIV. Bullish on Brockton: Ted Carman,
V. The Heart of the City President, Concord Square Planning
& Development; and Brockton
VI. The Heart of the City Executive Director Robert Jenkins
VII. Good Eatin’ XV. Looking to the Future
VIII. Good Eatin’
3
I. W
WELCOME TO
BROCKTON
elcome to a city built on shoe leather,
where the old New England work ethic
and 21st century innovation live side
by side. Welcome to a city that gains
its strength from social and economic
diversity – a city where people from all over the
world live, work, and play together, where small
businesses and national companies are striving hand
in hand to build a better future.
Brockton is a city with a rich sense of
CORE ACTION STRATEGIES
• Re-establishing the vibrancy of
downtown
Community leaders are working hard to
expand amenities to serve new and existing
residents, employees, and visitors. A new
pharmacy, a 414-space parking garage,
and local maker space all opened in 2019.
City Hall and the Brockton Redevelopment
Authority have been negotiating the
rehabilitation of existing buildings and
ethnic restaurants, boutiques, and food
stores to locate downtown would highlight
the city’s many communities and create
new downtown destinations.
• Actively welcoming small-
business entrepreneurs
The Brockton Redevelopment Authority
has created a new $1.5 million Downtown
Restaurant Infrastructure Loan Fund to
support restaurant expansion, while the
city is now offering rent rebates to business
• Actively marketing downtown
Brockton is making news in the Boston
real estate and business trade publications
for recently completed deals, our work
with Federal Opportunity Zones, and
increasing housing stock. A recent request
for qualifications issued by the Brockton
Redevelopment Authority has drawn
interest from both New England and
national developers for downtown projects.
We are actively working with the Brockton
Partnership and its members to keep the
history and a bold sense of purpose, a city owners to lease vacant retail and upper- good news flowing and developing new
construction of new ground-up, mixed-use,
working toward a brighter tomorrow while floor office space. The city has also recently marketing strategies. Even this Downtown
mixed-income residential buildings, all
honoring its storied past. Brockton is a been designated by the Commonwealth of Welcome Guide is an example of how we
adding more residents and employees to
place where art, athletics, and education Massachusetts for a new Vacant Storefront are promoting downtown Brocton.
enliven public spaces.
are embraced and where opportunity Initiative to provide refundable tax credits
is available to all. If you take advantage for tenants who make capital improvements In addition to the Downtown Action Strategy,
• Improve public safety
of everything this city has to offer, the to previously unoccupied retail space. the city also created an Urban Renewal
Th
e new police bike and walking patrols
possibilities are endless. put more officers on the street and within District and District Improvement Financing
• Improve connectivity (DIF) program. “These three tools are critical
the realm of the general public. Advanced
P etronelli Way is now open to two-way for advancing downtown redevelopment. The
BROCKTON DOWNTOWN LED lighting has also provided better
traffic to improve access to the new Mayor
ACTION STRATEGY illumination for public spaces. Strategy provides the vision, Urban Renewal
Carpenter Garage. Additionally, construction gives us the authority to execute our plan,
will begin in the spring of 2020 on a new and the DIF helps pay for it,” said Director
“Our fundamental goal is to build a strong, diverse, • Encourage downtown culture
street to connect Petronelli Way to Court of Planning and Economic Development
attractive downtown that can reclaim its role as The city is working with community
Street. Finally, the city has completed a Rob May. “This plan is a living, breathing
anchor of the city and the Metro South region.” partners like Brockton Arts at Enso Gallery,
new Downtown Traffic Study and Plan that document that is actively being implemented,
—The Department of Planning and Economic the Thomas P. Kennedy Public Library,
will move toward two-way traffic on Main as evidenced by the recent completion of the
Development Brockton Farmers Market, and Prova! to
Street, Warren Avenue, and Belmont Street Mayor Carpenter Garage and the ongoing
The first step toward reaching that goal is the expand cultural offerings across downtown.
to improve circulation, pedestrian and bike work by the Brockton Redevelopment
Brockton Downtown Action Strategy. Developed Plans are underway to reinvent the former
safety, and business visibility. Authority to revitalize key properties like 93
through public and private partnerships, residents BAT Bus Terminal into Sycamore Grove, a
and city officials worked together to craft the Action public events space for music and special Centre Street and entice private investment.”
• Upgrade infrastructure
Strategy, the first phase in the Brockton Gateway participation was critical both for creating new gatherings that support the burgeoning
Th
e city has been working with National For more information on the
Transformative Development Initiative (TDI). ideas and for incorporating the best concepts restaurant row between Joe Angelo’s and the
Grid to upgrade their underground electrical Brockton Downtown Action Strategy,
By mapping out historical conditions, from previous revitalization efforts. More than former Sweeny’s (214 to 262 Main Street).
services throughout downtown. Also, the city visit: www.brockton.ma.us
contemporary necessities, and dreams for the future, 50 residents and business owners reviewed and
is exploring the construction of a municipal
the plan identifies ways to attract new businesses, contributed to the Brockton Downtown Strategy in • Promote diversity of community
fiber optic network to bring cutting-edge Postcard courtesy of Boston Public Library via
broaden the socioeconomic mix, and increase the September 2017, creating a vision that reflects our Brockton’s existing diversity will play a key
telecommunications services to the curb. DigitalCommonwealth.org
vibrancy of downtown Brockton. Community shared priorities. role in the success of downtown. Helping
4 5
II.
Brockton already has many strong
suits, noted the Mayor.
“One of the biggest things to me, as
the dad of three kids, is the school system.
Brockton High School is one of the public
largest high schools east of the Mississippi
River and is recognized nationwide. People
tell me they’re moving to Brockton because
of our dynamic schools,” he said. “Market-
rate and affordable housing is a plus as
well, with the added benefit that downtown
residents can walk right to the Commuter
Rail depot and ride into South Station.
“We want to figure out from a
A CONVERSATION
MAYOR
strategic planning standpoint what is
going to attract businesses, but also offer
WITH
amenities and services to our residents,”
said Sullivan.
ROBERT F.
He also supports the ongoing effort
to turn downtown into an “18-hour
neighborhood,” where people spend
time not only during work but before
and after, as well. That means offering a
variety of destinations, from coffee shops
SULLIVAN
to nightclubs, from supermarkets to
pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly routes.
His office is working in conjunction with
Robert Jenkins, Executive Director of the
Brockton Redevelopment Authority, on a
HUD loan guarantee that will incentivize
property owners to lease space to sit-
down restaurants.
M
“The sky’s the limit on what we can do
in our downtown. We want to have new
ayor Robert F. Sullivan, 50, throughout the City. Cindy’s Kitchen on the City’s south-side music venues, restaurants with cultural
served on the Brockton City “I am working on a daily basis is another recognized food brand.” aspects. The beauty and diversity in
Council as a Councilor-At- with the people here in City Hall. Among the tools at Brockton’s Brockton must be shown and amplified,”
Large for fourteen years, We are charged to benefit the lives of disposal is Chapter 40R, the Smart said Sullivan. “There’s a lot in the queue
including five times as the people who live and work in the City Growth Zoning Overlay District Act. and right now we’re brainstorming to
Council President, before being elected of Brockton,” said the Mayor. “We “When we adopted Chapter 40R, it was maximize our potential and the offerings.”
the City’s 50th Mayor last fall. Entering are working in conjunction with the a true catalyst for beneficial investment there was the Brockton Neighborhood advantages Brockton has to offer. Among the City’s greatest strengths
his first term as the City’s chief executive, Brockton Redevelopment Authority, the in downtown,” the Mayor said. “For Health Center annex in conjunction “We are having a lot of people coming is its incredibly diverse mix of ethnic
the continued redevelopment and growth City Council, the School Committee, example, we have had the approximately with Vicente’s expansion. We also have to Brockton,” said the Mayor. “It is 35 backgrounds and cultures, noted the Mayor.
of downtown Brockton is a core element and Director of Planning and Economic $30 million Trinity Financial investment. significant investment through creative minutes to South Station on the train. His own paternal grandparents came to
of his vision for the City as a whole. Development Rob May. Together, we In addition, using the Tax Incremental financing such as the historic tax credit People – young professionals, especially Brockton from Ireland to work in the
“We are having a really wonderful have been able to develop different Financing initiative has helped maintain and the Gateway Cities initiative.” – are realizing that to live in Brockton factories, and his wife’s great-grandparents
renaissance here in Brockton,” said creative ideas and initiatives that have our businesses and has brought new ones One of the major draws for large makes sense compared to prices in Boston, came from Italy to do the same.
Sullivan. “And when we look at Brockton greatly benefited the City and will to the City. We cannot forget that W.B. employers is the 10 GB fiber optic line that Quincy, and Braintree. Although the City “Brockton has always been a City of
as a whole, Downtown is the epicenter. It continue to do so in the years ahead.” Mason’s world headquarters is located runs to Brockton and offers significant is not a coastal community, but I would immigrants. That is what makes Brockton
is a special place. Through the collective Over the course of the next five years, here and Crown Uniform & Linen and advantages in speed and bandwidth to argue without question we have the so special and unique. Now we have a
efforts of Governor Baker, Lieutenant Sullivan anticipates a wider variety of T.F. Kinnealy & Company relocated here.” potential business partners that deal with number one asset, which is the wonderful new wave of immigrants trying to better
Governor Polito, our State delegation, businesses coming to downtown, both “Maintaining existing locally owned large volumes of digital information. people in the City of Brockton.” their lives and to provide for the next
the City Council, and our Planning and large and small, and his administration businesses is also critical,” the Mayor said, “If we could find a data center to take In order to encourage those workers generation, their kids,” he said. “The
Economic Development Department, the will work to facilitate the arrival of new “because they have anchored downtown advantage of that fiber optic off-ramp into to follow their employers into Brockton, people and cultures are a recipe for a
interest and commitment is outstanding. employers and support existing businesses. and been key factors in helping combat the community, the asset is there,” said Sullivan said City Hall will focus on winning environment, and Brockton is
The infrastructure is in place and we just “What I envision in Brockton is the ‘stubborn economic challenges’ that Sullivan. “People could save significant enhancing public safety and continuing to going to flourish under my administration.
have to continue to look for additional a thriving economic community with were identified in the Gateway Cities amounts of money by bringing their back improve education. “Open relationships It is going to be a City recognized within
investment and real estate developers to investment to help our tax base and, Compact for Community and Economic office operations – i.e. customer service, and dialogue are going to bring us to the the Commonwealth as a friendly, all-
come to Brockton.” ultimately, everyone who lives and works Development. call centers – down here. Our property is next level. We need to have a safer, more encompassing, welcoming community
Sullivan said he will draw upon the in Brockton,” he said. “I know the days of “We are starting to see the mom and less expensive than Back Bay or downtown inclusive, and dynamic City leveraging that is going to be a fun place to live and a
partnerships he developed during his shoe manufacturing have diminished, but pop stores staying here and flourishing,” Boston, and we still have a high-quality the wonderful diverse population that fun place to work.
City Council tenure, and from his past now we have different manufacturing, he said. “Vicente’s Supermarket did a workforce in the same catchment area as live and work in the City of Champions. “If you are not familiar with Brockton,
work at the Massachusetts State House, particularly food manufacturing. natural expansion over to the corner those locations.” Through our collaborative efforts we I invite you to visit Brockton,” Mayor
as he seeks out the best development Concord Foods off West Chestnut of Warren Avenue, an investment As such businesses locate in the City, will enact systemic changes to benefit all Sullivan said. “It is the City of Champions
opportunities for downtown and Street is known throughout the country; of approximately $3 million. And employees will follow as they realize the within our community.” and its people are truly the champions.”
6 7
III.
QA&
What are downtown’s strengths
right now, and what is the city
working to improve?
Our top selling point is that downtown is
35 minutes by train to South Station and all
the high-wage jobs in Dewey Square and the
Seaport District. A close runner-up is that
Brockton continues to be a great housing
value, and as we continue to add residential
units the City offers more and more options
to both our current residents and those who
want to join our community.
Talk about downtown’s and
WITH ROB MAY,
Brockton’s potential.
Through our planning efforts and the
Downtown Action Strategy and Urban
Renewal Revitalization Action Plan,
PLANNING AND ECONOMIC
we’ve identified several sites we think
we have potential for redevelopment.
Some are vacant parking lots, some are
DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR underused buildings or uses that haven’t
achieved the full potential of those sites.
We’re collaborating with the Brockton
Redevelopment Authority to work with
How are things in Brockton’s Ganley Building makes way for a new, existing property owners or to find new
historic city center? three-story state office building with a teams to develop these sites for residential,
Things are going great in downtown Massasoit Community College presence commercial, and mixed uses.
Brockton. There is a lot of interest from the on the first floor. Boston Chicken opened
development community as we continue to at 95 Montello Street offering a wide What does the business community
promote our transit-oriented development selection of menu items. Brockton Arts need to know about downtown?
sites. The Brockton Redevelopment took over management of the Enso Flats There has been a lot of investment down
Authority is actively vetting proposals for Gallery and is now hosting exhibitions of here already, close to $150 million, and
new mixed-use and market-rate residential local artists and the Milton Art Museum downtown Brockton is on the upswing.
deals. As you walk around downtown, you will be relocating its collection to the This is not only a great place to make an
can hear the hammering and see the cranes space next door. investment but it’s a good place to open
as the city changes around you. your new business, a good place to live. As
The Governor also announced What’s on tap for downtown we create this walkable, transit-oriented
another MassWorks grant for the City to Brockton in 2020? downtown, we really are recreating the
streetscape and reconstruct Petronelli Way The City is wrapping up the Downtown historic fabric of the city and creating a
for two-way traffic and to construct a new Transportation Study as we consider neighborhood that provides housing, retail,
road to connect Petronelli Way to Court returning to two-way traffic on Main dining, and employment opportunities.
Street. This is one of the first of projects Street, Warren Avenue, and Belmont
we’ll be working on to improve circulation Street. Construction is scheduled to When you have free time in the city,
downtown. commence this year on the Anglum where do you like to spend it?
Building at 93 Centre Street. The historic I like to spend time in my own backyard: I
Update us on the projects started rehabilitation of this nine-story former raise chickens and garden. Brockton allows
in 2019. shoe factory will see its conversion to 55 us to have the experience of living in a city
The new Mayor Bill Carpenter Garage new residential units. Sycamore on Main but still having space that we can do those
was dedicated and a large mural was should be erected and enclosed before kinds of things. Another activity I like to
introduced to the community. Brockton the winter weather sets in; this mixed-use do is go to the Fuller Craft Museum on
Pharmacy opened its doors at 90 building at 121 Main Street will include Oak Street; it is a nationally known and
Main Street; this marks the first large 45 units and 3,000 square feet of retail/ well-regarded museum of contemporary
retail tenant to locate downtown since restaurant space. And the Brockton craft where they’re constantly changing
our redevelopment efforts started. Redevelopment Authority has inked a exhibitions and holding other events that
Construction is nearing completion at 47 deal with a local developer to rehab 19 bring people in from all over New England.
W. Elm Street, which is the first from- Main Street, the historic First Parish There’s lots of other events in Brockton, but
the-ground-up market-rate residential Building, for 21 residential units and there’s also a great region around us, from
development in decades. Demolition ground floor commercial space. Plymouth to Boston to Providence. I can get
began at 226 Main Street as the old to all of these places in about an hour.
8 9
IV.
CITY COUNCILORS MAKE
DOWNTOWN
A
PRIORITY
M
idway into his sixth term, assets to draw upon, Monahan said. Its Cape Verdeans, Haitians,
Councilor Thomas Monahan existing building stock, for one, and the Hispanics. They’re feeling
said downtown Brockton proximity of the Commuter Rail station that it’s their hometown
has remained a priority for to the city’s center. now, and it’s bringing
him since he joined the City “People can come in from Boston, everyone together.”
Council 10 years ago. get an apartment, hop on a train – it’s Another Brockton
“I wanted to see downtown come huge,” he said. native who is raising his
back to what it was when I grew up: Returning two-way traffic to streets family here, Councilor
Active, foot traffic, vibrant,” said the like Main, Belmont, and Warren is also Jeffrey Thompson agrees
lifelong Brocktonian, whose family has key, he said. that the city’s core needs
been here since 1850. “I really see it “We need a whole plan for that, to to be a place where people
starting to develop and I think it’s going make it easier to get around town and want to spend time,
to be a vibrant place.” more attractive to businesses,” he said. whether for working or
While there’s still a way to go, “A nice traffic flow will be good to have playing or living.
Monahan is pleased with the uptick in down here. The parking garage was huge “We’re looking for
investment downtown, especially the because it was holding back some people a vibrant downtown,”
development of market-rate apartments who wanted to come in, like restaurants. he said. “One in which residents of and entrepreneurs to take advantage of “Brockton has a beautiful history to promote the proximity to Boston.
and the completion of the Mayor Bill This is right downtown, a lot of parking. Brockton can come to have dinner and what’s there. as a shoe city, a sports city, and we can “We should be trading on that issue,” he
Carpenter Parking Garage. “We throw a lot of ideas around with have entertainment, whether watching a “We need some areas downtown definitely market that and the historical said, along with the city’s location at the
“We’ve had people with disposable the developers who come in,” Monahan game in a bar or listening to a concert in where a band can have a concert, food nature of the architecture,” said terminus of a 110 GB fiber optic cable.
income moving into the downtown said. “I really think we’re on the verge of a green space.” trucks can set up, people can congregate Thompson. “Across from City Hall is “We’re about four to five years in to a
area,” he said. “We have a development getting there.” The foundations for all this are there, in a safe, upbeat area that is centrally the building where Thomas Edison built 20-year plan,” said Thompson. “We’re on
on West Elm Street with market-rate Another indispensable asset is he added, whether physical or cultural. located to the garages and where they can the city’s first electric generator. The the move. We need a little patience and
luxury apartments. We have 19 Main Brockton’s great diversity, something that “We have some good areas for great sit and enjoy themselves,” he said. Pleasant Street Fire Station has a light the involvement of the citizens.
Street that’s going to be developed dates back to the city’s earliest days. spaces downtown. Restaurant-wise, Thompson recognizes that one of the bulb that was changed by Edison and “I think we are a city on the rise,” he
into commercial and market-rate “We are so diverse, you’re seeing the something that’s American fusion that things that’s still needed in downtown has not been touched since.” said. “We have great people in the city. I
apartments. You can see that there’s cultures merging together,” Monahan blends in the different cultures of our is population density, which is why The 35-minute Commuter Rail trip want people to remain in Brockton when
money to be spent downtown, so we said. “I’m half Italian and half Irish. The city – Cape Verdean, Haitian, and so the current and planned residential into South Station is “almost invaluable they seek food and drink and culture. I
want to bring up businesses down there.” Italians, the Irish, the Poles all came in on,” said Thompson. construction is so vital to attracting to the city,” according to Thompson, don’t want them to have to go to Boston
Downtown Brockton has solid early. Now we’re seeing a transition to The next step is to help developers commercial development. and everything possible should be done when they want it.”
10 11
V.
THE HEART
RT
CITY
OF
THE
BROCKTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Founded in North Bridgewater with a collection of 600 books
in 1867, the Brockton Public Library today is a temple of
learning in downtown Brockton. Its 1913 building was built
with a donation from industrialist Andrew Carnegie, secured by
Brockton Mayor William H. Clifford in 1910, and is built of brick,
limestone, marble, and oak. Awash in natural light, adorned
with a mural commissioned by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Works
Progress Administration, and updated in a 2003 renovation, the
Main Library offers a vast array of services to the downtown
community, including a MakerSpace for creative projects.
For more information visit: www.brocktonpubliclibrary.org.
BROCKTON TRIAL COURT
Housing 13 courtrooms and covering more than 140,000 square
feet, the Brockton Trial Court building is a hub of local and
regional legal activities. Home to district and housing courts
as well as juvenile, probate, and family courts, this $41 million
capital improvement project was completed in 1999.
For more information, visit www.mass.gov/locations/
brockton-district-court.
BROCKTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
From early childhood programs to K-12 to adult learning
centers, Brockton Public Schools serves more than 16,000
students. And with more than 50 languages spoken across its
campuses, Brockton’s schools find strength in diversity. The
school system strives to create dynamic academic environments,
coupled with a vigorous and exciting athletic program, to give
the next generation every opportunity to succeed.
For more information, including the latest events and updates, visit:
www.brocktonpublicschools.org.
12 13
VI.
THE HEART
MERIAN BROTHERS
For seven decades and three
generations, the Merian
family has been dressing
people for their most special
occasions from locations
in downtown Brockton,
vacant for 30 years,” Barbosa said. “We
knew we would be a perfect fit because
we knew we represent the community
and it would support us.”
Before the store opened, the area had
been categorized as a “food desert” by
the federal government because of lack of
years is the access to our location from
all parts of the city, and even branching
out to towns like Easton and Stoughton
and other towns that touch Brockton,”
said Michelle Sena. “Also, we take up the
whole corner, so we’re very visible.
I addition to managing the office
CITY
beginning with Alyce options to find fresh, healthy foods. Now at Iriving’s, Michelle Sena is part of
Reizian’s Bridal Shop and residents not only have access to fresh the owning family – her father-in-law
produce and other groceries, but Vicente’s Richard bought the business in 1974, and
OF
continuing today with Merian
Brothers formal wear on Main partnered with Brockton Neighborhood her husband David is a co-owner. The
Street. Health Clinic to open a location next to store was actually across the intersection
THE “My mother [Alyce] and the store, with services that include joint at the time the Senas bought it, but when
grandmother started the bridal programming around healthy eating. it came time to grow their business,
shop in 1951,” recounted John Barbosa is a staunch believer in instead of relocating elsewhere they
Merian. “My brother Paul and downtown Brockton and knows what opted to stay put in downtown.
I both grew up downtown. We he’d tell anyone considering bringing “Because we’re in the center of
love downtown.” their business there. town, we get all types of people,” she
That love affair started after their “I’d say it’s an untapped location,” he said, noting their customers range from
grandparents had emigrated from said. “It’s convenient, it’s dense, it’s in the homeowners to landlords to contractors.
Greece and Armenia and found work heart of the city.” “We get to know our community and
in the shoe and textile industries in get to be a good corporate neighbor.”
Brockton. Once the bridal shop was For more information, visit
established and successful, Merian said www.vicentessupermarket.com. For more information, visit
the family sought other opportunities www.irvingshomecenter.com.
in the city center. They purchased their IRVING’S HOME CENTER
current building at 137 Main St. in 1979 Located at Main and Court streets,
and renovated it into the largest bridal Irving’s Home Center has been a
store east of the Mississippi River, a fixture of downtown Brockton for
lavish destination with a white marble decades, the place to go whether
façade and a garden setting. your home improvement project is
“They really wanted to make a as small as a new faucet or as large
statement,” he said. “And I guess that’s as building an addition.
why my brother and I took the role on – “The biggest plus, I think,
we really felt that’s what we want, we feel that’s kept ups here for 40-plus
comfortable and at home here.”
Now specializing in menswear, Merian
Brothers remains bullish on downtown and
the ongoing revitalization of downtown.
“We belonged in Brockton
and wanted to commit to the city’s
resurgence,” Merian said.
For more information, visit
www.merianbrothers.com.
VICENTE’S SUPERMARKET
What began as a humble convenience
store opened by Manuel Vicente in 1994
has grown into a vibrant downtown
supermarket and a family-owned
business committed to its neighborhood.
Managed by Manuel Vicente’s son
Jason Barbosa, Vicente’s Supermarket
opened its Pleasant Street location in 2015.
“It used to be a supermarket that was
14 15
VII.
GOOD EATIN’
THAI FOOD THEORY
104 Torrey Street
Start with the tum yum soup, vegetables in
a soothing coconut broth that yet carries a
spicy tingle. The Thai rolls are beautifully
crisp and golden, filled with a flavorful
mélange of chicken, black mushrooms,
taro, and more. But it’s the main courses
that will leave you swooning. The panang
curry is notably spicy – the chile oils used
in Thai cooking are exceptionally efficient
at delivering heat all around your mouth
without searing any one part of it – and is
packed with vegetables, including zucchini,
carrot, peppers, beans, and baby corn. It is a
dish that encourages eating slowly, because
every element is worth savoring.
JJ’S CAFFE
610 N. Main St.
Chef Justino “J.J.” Fernandez first came to
this country from his native Cape Verde as
a 23-year-old in 1978, settled in Brockton
in 1982, and worked his way from a hotel
dishwasher to executive chef of the Boston
Park Plaza Hotel. Today he’ll serve you an
amazing Cape Verdean-influenced dishes
right here in Brockton. FLAVA JAMAICA
Take his shrimpcakes benedict: The 21 Torrey Street
fresh taste of the sea is prominent but Tucked into a small space with fewer than
doesn’t overwhelm the gentle hollandaise a dozen tables, Flava Jamaica is low-key at
or the perfectly poached egg. His salmon first glance. But the aromas coming from
and snapper are always seasoned the way he the big, open kitchen will fire your stomach’s
learned growing up in the Caribbean. And imagination, as will the menu filled with
there are stew-based dishes that harken back Caribbean dishes. You can have ackee and
to the long-simmering pots where a little bit saltfish, the Jamaican national dish featuring
of everything was tossed in. the national fruit (ackee, brought to the
You might have to wait for a table at island from western Africa by Captain
JJ’s – they don’t accept reservations or offer William Bligh) and salted cod. The curried
takeout – but you won’t be alone; they’ve goat is tender and flavorful with a just-spicy-
seated more than 100,000 diners over the enough sauce. Or try the jerk pork, or fish
past six years. The menu is a single page of tea, or manish water, or chicken feet, or…
his customers’ seasonal favorites, augmented well, just go ahead and try everything.
by two or three specials that rotate based
upon what ingredients he is getting in and ELVERA’S CAFÉ
what Fernandez is feeling inspired to cook. 132 Main Street
“When people come in here and tell The sign on the wall proclaims, “My blood
you how they feel about the food, when they type is coffee” and the menu proposes to
thank you,” he says, “that makes me happy.” fill you with caffeine and whatever else
you need to get you going in the morning.
SUPREME HOUSE OF PIZZA Each element of the bacon, egg, and cheese
376 Centre Street sandwich comes out of the kitchen perfectly:
Sometimes you need a real sub. One where Soft and warm eggs, properly melted cheese,
they toast the entire roll in a pizza oven, to crispy bacon, and a flaky croissant. Lunch
give it a crunchy texture that makes every bite more your thing? Soups and salads, quiches
extra-satisfying. The Italian sausage is hearty and (feeling decadent?) carrot cake and other
and the red sauce has that unmistakable pastries await you. And, of course, caffeine
homemade taste. Throw on cheese and in all its forms, from straight-up java, to
whatever toppings you care to add and you’ve espressos and chais, to featured blends like a
got a serious nosh. Cash only! toasted almond mocha.
16 17
VIII.
GOOD EATIN’
STONEBRIDGE CAFÉ
1285 Belmont Street
Step into Stonebridge late on a Saturday
morning and you’ll find the breakfast rush
is still hopping, with a crowd waiting for
seats, people coming and going with takeout,
and lively conversation everywhere. These
are all the best possible signs for a breakfast
place because they mean it’s where people
want to be for their eggs or pancakes or
hash or what-have-you. And speaking of,
we’ll have the Stonebridge Skillet, which
offers up a bunch of everything – eggs,
meats, vegetables, potatoes – in quantities to
challenge the most dedicated breakfaster.
McMENAMY SEAFOOD
810 Belmont Street
It looks the part of a Massachusetts family
seafood place: Weathered and worn, like it’s
been there for generations. The shrimp roll
has so much shrimp, they don’t even bother
putting them in the roll and instead just
pile ‘em atop the fries. They are beautiful,
perfectly battered, crispy, and firm; you don’t
need to be told they were caught fresh that
very day. But if that still isn’t fresh enough
for you, there are tanks of live crabs and
lobsters waiting for you to take them home.
TOMMY DOYLE’S AT SIDELINES
235 E. Ashland Street
Classic Brockton and a classic pub rolled into TUTTO BENE any number of delicious, seasonal Italian food, made from scratch and
one, Tommy Doyle’s is both hospitable and 1050 Pearl Street contents: cheese, lobster, meats, spinach made to order for every single guest.
homey. The menu carries on this fine balance Like many good Italian adventures, this – the butternut ravioli are particularly
with homemade cod cakes, lobster casserole, one starts with cheese: As a young law delectable, creamy soft inside with a rich LISA’S SWEET TOOTH
and baked scallops proving its New England student, Tutto Bene founder Benjamin flavor and subtle seasonings. You can 245 Main Street
bona fides. Try the baked haddock, served Albanese worked in a cheese shop. From even get them frozen to take home and Tucked away in a narrow little shop
up in a white wine and butter sauce that there he went on to practice law, as well cook yourself. on the corner of Main and Belmont,
will make your tastebuds dance (and your as ravioli-making, and eventually he Seafood is also prominent on the this micro bakery turns out treats
cardiologist blanch). Of course, if you want branched out into other pastas and, finally, menu, and Ablanese gets it fresh from with macro flavors. Portuguese-style
a steak or a burger or meatloaf, they’re not an Italian restaurant in his hometown that the pier. Likewise, their fresh fruits and truffles packed with chocolate richness.
going to let you down – this is a real pub, draws equally upon traditions of home vegetables come from a local producer Tiny little éclairs that are full of flavor.
after all, and they have all the pub standards cooking and fine dining. and they source meat from local butchers. Red velvet drops or crispy, many-
nailed down. Throw in live bands on the Back to that ravioli: These little Tutto Bene is Italian for “it’s all layered palmiers. Definitely file Lisa’s
weekends and you’ve got a destination for pockets of goodness are perfectly good” and that’s what Albanese wants under “good things come from small
every day of the week. tender and filled nigh to bursting with to deliver: Perfect plates of traditional storefronts.”
18 19IX. KEEPING
BROCKTON
HEALTHY OLD COLONY YMCA
With a charter that dates to the YMCA
of North Bridgewater in 1887, downtown
Brockton’s Old Colony Y has deep roots in
the city and beyond.
BROCKTON PHARMACY BOYS & GIRLS CLUB “Our Y has grown as a result of mergers
Pharmacist Fred Alamba grew up in When he arrived five years ago to head with smaller Ys and entities,” says Vincent
Brockton, and when it came time to start up the Boys & Girls Club in Brockton, Marturano, the president of Old Colony Y.
his own business the decision to locate it president and CEO Derek Heim saw “Today we’re a family of Ys serving a good
downtown was the natural one, with the tremendous potential. Today, after merging hunk of Plymouth and Bristol counties.”
amount of foot traffic, new apartments with the neighboring Taunton club in Overseeing dozens of locations and
under construction, and the proximity to 2019 to become the Boys & Girls Club of programs throughout the region, the Y
the Brockton Neighborhood Health Center. Metro South, he’s seen a lot of that potential serves about 140,000 people a year, from
“I’ve lived here my entire life,” says realized – but even more on the horizon. infants to nonagenarians, says Marturano,
Alamba. “It just made sense to me. It was “We serve a little over 5,000 kids who’s been with the organization 37 years.
the best decision for me.” annually, four to five hundred a day at Of those, 75,000 are paid members, and
The city also helped make our two buildings,” says Heim. “But our three-quarters are below the age of 18.
the decision easy with a smooth biggest challenge as an organization is that “We’re very focused on youth,” he says.
permitting process and quick answers we are physically out of space. We have a “Our community commitment is no one is
to his questions, and programs like the waitlist for kids to get in … over 300.” turned away for the inability to pay.”
Downtown Redevelopment Authority’s With a history of strong partnership According to Marturano, the Old
reimbursement for his signage expenses. with the city and a foundation of public Colony Y sees anywhere from 8,000 to
The Downtown Action Strategy plan also support, Heim sees 2020 as a year of 10,000 member visits per month to its
informed his decision. growth for the club. There are plans to downtown location, people who come for
“I saw the plan and thought this was raise capital for a new building downtown its fitness facilities, programs, and child
something I want to be part of,” he says. to house programs for younger kids, with care. “This YMCA is an absolute gem of
“That was definitely a factor.” the existing building being dedicated to its health and fitness,” he says.
Now he’s building relationships with teen programming. In the meantime, the It has also grown along with downtown.
his customers and looking toward the club will continue to focus on the mission When he arrived in 1992, Marturano says
future. With ongoing redevelopment it’s carried out in Brockton since 1990. the Y was “about the sole thing remaining.”
of commercial space and an emphasis “We pride ourselves for a staff well- Today, he says, the reinvestment by the
on bringing people to the city’s center, equipped to help kids who walk through city and private sector has revitalized the
Alamba said he felt this was the place to our doors with the challenges of the city,” neighborhood, and the Y’s continued
grow his business and have an impact on Heim says. “We’re thrilled to be a player commitment has made it an essential part
his community. in Brockton and part of a renaissance in of the mix.
Brockton. We’re seeing change… it’s an “We’re in the communities,” he says.
For more information, visit exciting time for us to be part of that, “The community center, the programs – the
brocktonpharmacy.com. walking alongside the city.” Y brings it to them every day.”
For more information, visit For more information, visit
www.bgcmetrosouth.org. www.oldcolonyymca.org.
20 21X.
KEEPING
BROCKTON
HEALTHY
BROCKTON FARMERS MARKET community organizations and nonprofits
The Brockton Farmer’s Market will kick that offer services to people in Brockton,
off its 10th year the week after the Fourth Van Kuiken said, and they coordinate
of July holiday – provided the early with summer food service programs
growing season has cooperated, said so kids can come and have lunch and
market manager Jon Van Kuiken – and participate in activities.
run through the end of October. Van Kuiken said the market is always
“Overall last year we had seven interested in hearing from farmers,
vendors selling produce and one vendors, and community organizations
beekeeper selling honey,” Van Kuiken that would like to join them.
said. “We’d been trying for five years
to get a beekeeper. Another vendor For more information, visit
recommended he try our market and he www.brocktonfarmersmarket.com. things,” said Monteith. “There’s a city
was so happy, he’s coming back again.” housing complex across the street and
Open to any growers in New NAACP CULTURAL CROPS GARDEN several residents come across and help
England, most of the participating Founded by the Brockton Area Branch maintain the garden when the students
vendors are relatively local to Brockton. NAACP with funding from the Brockton are out of school.”
They include not only farmers selling Cultural Council, the Cultural Crops From the start, Monteith said,
produce, but Brockton-based Jordan Garden is located on Goddard Road people from across the community were
Brothers Seafood taking orders for behind Champion High School. It has eager to take part in the project, from
fish, and Sarah’s Tasty Treats, a vegan 13 raised planting beds, each with a the mayor’s office to local colleges to
and gluten-free bakery. There was also different crop in it and interpretive the garden club and the schools. The
a vendor selling handmade soap, and signage that explains the cultural origins food grown there goes to a number of
someone selling hot food. of the food being grown and how it’s different places, she said.
Located at City Hall Plaza, the market often used for cooking. “We hope to sell some of it at the
is open every Friday from 10 a.m. until But it’s more than just a garden, farmers market to raise money to put
2 p.m. during its season. In addition to said branch treasurer Pat Monteith. It’s back into the project,” said Monteith. “And
providing space, the city also helps with a permanent project that is part of the we end up giving a lot of it to students
the entertainment budget. Another major NAACP’s efforts to unite the community and people who put it together. And we
sponsor is Good Samaritan Medical and celebrate its cultural heritages. have an annual harvest celebration where
Center, which gives farmers market The site is maintained by a a lot of people come from the whole
vouchers to the Neighborhood Health combination of students and nearby community, and we allow people to take
Center to pass out to their clients to residents. the food home to do some cooking.”
promote healthy eating. The vendors also “There’s two teachers working with
accept WIC and senior vouchers. a group of about a dozen students who For more information, visit
The market offers a tent for help to do weeding and watering and naacp-brocktonbranch.org.
22 23XI.
ARTS&
EDUCATION
Emily Hall, president and director of THE GALLERY AT ENSO FLATS BROCKTON ARTS want to bring more gallery space to
PROVA!, the city’s nonprofit community The best gallery space in town, according When you distill Lucia Cerci’s philosophy non-artists – the most important thing
space initiative. “We want to prove to to Arnie Danileson, is the Gallery at Enso for the Brockton Arts program to its we offer to the community is a place
developers that a restaurant can come and Flats. And given that he and his wife essence, it is as simple as it is sensible: to go. We’re helping make Brockton a
be successful, that the community can founded Brockton Arts and have headed “We give them a place to play.” destination place.”
have a safe, comfortable space.” up major fundraisers in the city, he’s in a Operating out of the Stacy Adams
The inaugural PROVA! pop-up was position to know. Cultural Arts Building at 33 Dover Street, For more information visit
held in July 2018, and through its first two Originally set aside for resident artists, Brockton Arts offers space, classes, and www.brocktonarts.org.
seasons the city saw around 50 nights of today the gallery – which is managed by programs to meet a broad spectrum
activity, says Hall. And the proof of the Daneilson – is open to anyone in the city. of artistic wants and needs to the city’s
concept was in the turnout: Attendance “It’s a different kind of space, but people: Art classes, poetry workshops,
ran between 100 and 150 people per night, we use the space to grow the arts,” he spoken word events, music, readings,
with between 75 and 100 present at any says. “We have given endless people studios, and display space through its
given time. The city has the third season permission to come out and play and headquarters at Gallery 33. And Cerci
lined up for this year, she says, and is show off in public.” says that’s crucial for a city like Brokton.
planning to up the ante again. The purpose of the city’s arts “It’s important because such a diverse
“We’ve done a lot of music events initiative, as embodied in the Gallery at group, such a large, creative community, PUBLIC ART
but we’re working to make it more about Enso Flats as well as the display at the needs a space like this,” she says. “We can Salana Powers is a Brockton native and
the arts in general,” says Hall. “The ideas BAT station, is that he will stage a show, provide space, equipment, materials, and an artist whose medium is usually the
come partially from the community—our bring in art and hang it, and turn those connect people. If we don’t have it, we human body: She currently works for
Facebook page is very active, we put out private spaces into an interface with the can help find someone who does.” Tiger Shark Tattoo in Abington. But
an application for vendors to apply. We’re public they serve. Founded a decade ago by Arnie when a friend sent her information about
always going to be looking to increase A multi-functional space located Danielson and his wife, Cerci says the contest to design art for the new
and diversify the culture and arts and near the commuter rail station, the Brockton Arts “bootstrapped itself ” downtown parking garage scrim, Powers
entertainment.” gallery also hosts events and educational into existence and is now ready to level decided give it a shot.
The city is always glad to hear from endeavors. It wrapped up 2019 with up. It’s is stepping up fundraising efforts It was a good call: Her design with
property owners who have a space an exhibit by Haitian-born Brockton and partnering with other organization, lettering by her coworker Andy Vicente,
they can use, and feels like PROVA! is painter Youveline Joseph. And Danielson like the Haitian Artists Assembly of titled “City of Brockton,” was chosen as
a testament to what Brockton is made understands that the gallery will serve Massachusetts, which teaches youth the winner.
PROVA! of. And most of all, it’s to showcase the as an introduction to the arts for many how to express themselves through the “It probably took 20 to 30 hours to
When life gives you empty buildings and potential of these downtown sites and people who aren’t used to seeing original arts. Cerci is excited to have connected finish the whole piece,” says Powers. “It
vacant lots, why not put them to good encourage developers and businesses works hanging in such profusion. He with Brockton’s krumping community, was kind of a progressive design – we sat
use? Like a pop-up food festival, an arts to find new uses for them – even if that hopes they find it illuminating. practitioners of a highly aggressive, down, worked together, bounced ideas
event, or a big party for the people in means that, one day, there aren’t any “The art is sacred,” says Danileson, energetic style of dance. And she hopes back and forth.”
downtown Brockton. empty lots or vacant buildings for Hall to “and everyone knows it.” to revive the poetry slams Brockton Arts Her final design drew upon concepts
“‘Prova’ means ‘proof,’ and we are temporarily repurpose. used to host. that spoke to her of Brockton: City Hall,
hoping to prove to developers what is “PROVA’s goal is to put itself out of For current exhibits and classes visit “We’re doing well, but we want to a boxing glove, paintbrushes, a spade, a
possible in downtown Brockton,” says business,” she says. www.ensoartgallery.org. create more programs,” she says. “We microphone, a scroll, and the American
24 25Sign Language hand sign for love.
“I wanted to diversify it as much as I
could,” she says of the array of images. “I
like representing all people.”
And she wanted to let the viewers
interpret the meanings for themselves.
The spade, for instance, could represent
gardening but also the ongoing
construction downtown. The scroll could
be a diploma, or a certificate from a work
program, or something else entirely.
The boxing glove can represent the city’s
heritage in the sport or athletics in a
broader sense, just as the microphone
Fuller Craft Museum is also involved in
Downtown Brockton’s beautification and
outreach initiatives.
For current exhibits, events, and more,
visit: www.fullercraft.org
STACY ADAMS CULTURAL
ARTS BUILDING
These fully modernized artist studios
and event spaces are home to a broad
range of visual and performing artists,
small businesses, and creative enterprises,
from dance classes and music events to
the Gilmore School as part of a long
and fruitful partnership between those
institutions.
The city also benefits from the interns
BSU provides in many departments.
Its criminal justice program students
have worked in area law enforcement
agencies; its social work department
engages with area hospitals and community
agencies like Old Colony Elder Services.
And the university’s community service
department engages its students in various
nonprofit organizations around Brockton.
The partnership between Brockton
XII.
CITY
HALL
and paint brushes could reference the the annual Downtown Brockton Arts & and Bridgewater continues to grow, most
high school’s arts program or creative Music Festival. recently with the BSU@BHS initiative,
endeavors as a whole. where an office has been established at
And love, well … that’s for love, be it BRIDGWATER STATE UNIVERSITY Brockton High School so Bridgewater
of the city or of the people in your life. With its main campus just outside of State University staff members can serve as
“I don’t know how to describe the Brockton, each year Bridgewater State a resource to students and teachers there.
feeling, to be honest,” Powers says of having University is an important partner With 2,500 students graduating from
her design selected. “Seeing my art this big with the city. Every seventh grader in its undergraduate and graduate programs
and this public is a new experience, but the Brockton Public Schools attends BSU’s every year, Bridgewater State University
B
fact it’s in downtown Brockton kind of feels Watershed Access Lab, and the K-12 is a major resource for the city and people
full circle. It feels really nice.” students have access to STEM programs of Brockton.
in partnership with BSU, such as the ob Martin may have retired
FULLER CRAFT MUSEUM CityLab, EarthView, Engage in Math, For more information, visit from the City of Brockton more
This museum celebrates the craft Green Lab, the Observatory, and the www.bridgew.edu. than a decade ago, but he just
of functional art, from colonial-era Math Kangaroo Olympiad. can’t keep away from City Hall.
tools and quilts to contemporary DIY Educators in Brockton Schools also MASSASOIT COMMUNITY COLLEGE “I love history of all sorts
culture, photography, and painting. benefit from the work of Bridgewater With campuses in Brockton, Canton, and treasure the fact we have such a
The Fuller engages a broad spectrum State University. In addition to ongoing and Middleborough, this community unique City Hall,” says Martin, who held
of the arts community with events and professional development, the future college follows a decades-long mission of the position of the city’s human services
exhibitions on topics like “craftivism” teachers studying at Bridgewater work low-tuition, state-supported education. director (among other roles) and is now
and the Brockton Youth Creates Biennial. with the instructors and students at It also offers the STEM starter academy the official unofficial City Hall historian
for graduating high and tour guide.
schools seniors looking to Designed by local architect Wesley
study the fields of science, Lyng Minor and constructed between once used to watch for fires around the find that stuff anymore,” he adds. “And
technology, engineering, 1892 and 1894, having a Brockton City city. In fact, says Martin, on a clear day you the $368,000 accumulated cost [of City
and mathematics. Hall was not a universally embraced idea could see all the way to West Wareham Hall] was huge back then, but the value of
at first. In fact, says Martin, “The wonder from the crow’s nest, and the view from one of the paintings is double that, when
For more information, visit of City Hall is that it was ever even built.” the clock tower is also spectacular. we had it appraised a few years ago.”
www. massasoit.edu In the late 1800s, he explains, there But the views from the inside are Brockton City Hall was placed on
was a strong socialistic, anti-government likely the ones that will stick with you, the National Register of Historic Places
STONEHILL COLLEGE feeling in Brockton. The city had to Martin insists. Foremost among these: in 1976; in 2015 an outdoor amphitheater
This stately Catholic college hold several referendums before the The embellishments of the Hall of Flags, was added on the site as a place to hold
is based in nearby North public could be convinced to go forward and the gallery of paintings that were farmers markets, concerts, and ceremonies
Easton. An accredited with the plan. The cost to construct the created specifically for City Hall. honoring veterans and dignitaries. Now
institution, it houses most building was $350,000 … but the city The paintings by Richard Holland 125 years old, Martin believes that it’s one
students on campus and had overlooked the fact they also owed and Mortimer Lamb depict images from of the oldest – if not the oldest – working
offers a wide array of Minor for his work. the Civil War, which was still fresh in city halls in Massachusetts. And having
classes in the sciences, “They forgot to add on the fees the memory when City Hall was built. traveled the state extensively during
business administration, for the architect, $18,000,” Martin says. Their subjects range from depictions of his years working for the city and as an
and liberal arts. Students “The complete cost of the building was the goddesses War and Peace, to the 12th officer of the Massachusetts Municipal
are also eligible for study $368,000, a huge cost back then.” Regiment of the Massachusetts Volunteer Association, he feels confident that it is
abroad opportunities and Built at a time when Brockton was Infantry—led by Col. Fletcher Webster also the most impressive.
internships. Many Stonehill and industrial powerhouse, City Hall was who was from the Brockton area—at “There’s a number comparable in age,
graduates pursue advanced intended to be a monument to prosperity. Antietem, to a cavalry charge where one but nothing has the grandeur or majesty
or professional degrees. Drawing on Romanesque and Baroque rifleman seems to be taking aim at you of Brockton City Hall,” Martin says. “I
architectural styles with Victorian themes, wherever you stand in the room. have been an advocate of maintaining that
For more information, visit Minor designed a building that’s 148 feet “The 24-karat gold-plated papier- facility in perpetuity … as a monument to
www.stonehill.edu. tall at its peak, with a crow’s nest that was mache in the Hall of Flags… you don’t Plymouth County and Brockton.”
26 27You can also read
