Over 100 people voiced their ideas for their future of our region and Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh gave a keynote address at a MetroCommon 2050 Listening Session last Wednesday, March 6, at Hibernian Hall in Roxbury. Attendees at the exhibit-style open house went station-to-station, learning learning fun facts and exploring data about our region while giving feedback on what Greater Boston's next regional plan should include.

“This is not Boston versus Cambridge versus Westborough versus Milton. We are all in this together,” said Mayor Walsh in his keynote remarks. “Planning is key to how we should think about governing in the 21st century."

MetroCommon is Greater Boston’s next regional plan: a set of actions that local and state government can take to improve the region over time. The plan is being built on a foundation of data and community input, focusing on challenges and opportunities bigger than any one place: topics like traffic congestion, the rising cost of housing, our changing climate, equity of wealth and health, and efficient government.

"How do we link concerns in economic development, in transportation, in housing, in climate? That's what MetroCommon 2050 is all about," said MAPC Executive Director Marc Draisen, addressing the Listening Session attendees.

The listening session in Roxbury was the fourth of five such kickoff events. The last will be held next Thursday, March 21 in Norwell. Can't make it? Have your say in anytime on the MetroCommon 2050 Digital Hub!

Check out photos from the event below (and check out MAPC's Flickr for even more)!