The park plan is scheduled for a public hearing on Oct. 15.

Despite the area's need for community-based jobs, some local leaders were at first opposed to the city's industrial park plan.

The park plan and a draft environmental review will go before public hearings in September.

The group hired an architect last year who sketched preliminary park plans, though financing is in question.

Development corporation board members have long worried about reaction to the park plan in the Heights.

The bay's marine park zoning plan was renewed in 2008.

According to a park plan from 1830, there were 78 houses within the park, and by 1845 this number had risen to 330.

Neither the city nor the state has taken a position on the park plan.

Even with the pledge of state funds, a number of hurdles remain for the park plan.

Skeptics have a right to be dubious about his commitment since he has never publicly endorsed the park plan.