Youth Violence
As a long standing proponent for the development, health, and safety of young people across the Commonwealth, Sánchez has continuously advocated for youth violence and gang prevention grants, school to career connecting activities, and summer job programs for at-risk youth—programs that engage youth with opportunities in the community to avert criminal acts and behaviors and involvement with gangs.
Sánchez was able to prevent cuts to violence prevention grants during the 2011 fiscal year budget debate to provide youth with skills to foster their success as leaders in their communities.
Pedestrian Enhancements
Sánchez has been collaborating with the Emerald Necklace Conservancy (ENC), the Jamaica Plain community, and neighborhood park groups for many years to advocate for safer, improved access to Jamaica Pond in Jamaica Plain, particularly around the intersections of Eliot Street at Jamaicaway, Kelly Circle at Parkman Drive, and Parkman Drive at the Parkman Memorial. The three locations experience pedestrian crossing hazards, high speeds, and heavy traffic.
As part of the State Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) matching grants program, every dollar raised by a partnering organization is doubled by DCR. Approximate project costs for these pedestrian enhancements is $445, 000 of which $225,000 is state funding included in DCR’s 2010/2011 Capital Plan.
The parkway is a beautiful asset to our community and should be respected. Sánchez understands the issues that exist and is committed to continue working on improving pedestrian access and safety to the pond. He anticipates that the final plans will reinforce traffic calming and pedestrian crossing enhancements, improve pavement markings and signage, and increase green space around Jamaica Pond.