Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Honors Longtime Cambridge Resident and Developer with Rededication of North Point Park

Cambridge — The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced the rededication of the former North Point Park in honor of the late Richard McKinnon, a lifelong Cambridge resident and real estate developer, whose work helped transform East Cambridge and spurred the creation of the 8.5-acre waterfront park. The park will now be known as Richard McKinnon State Park. 

“Richard McKinnon State Park, formerly known as North Point Park, is a beloved urban oasis along the Charles River,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “Renaming the park in Richard’s honor is a testament to his commitment to East Cambridge and to creating public spaces that strengthen community. We hope this park continues to be a welcoming place where neighbors, families and friends can connect and enjoy the outdoors and waterfront for years to come.” 

McKinnon was a prominent local developer whose firm, The McKinnon Company, helped develop much of what is now the Cambridge Crossing neighborhood, where McKinnon also lived. As part of his work, he guided the redevelopment of North Point Park into the unique space it is today. McKinnon passed away in 2020 at the age of 73. The renaming of North Point Park to Richard McKinnon State Park was made possible through legislation filed by Senator Sal DiDomenico and signed into law in 2024. 

“Five years after Richard McKinnon’s passing, I am proud that we are honoring his incredible legacy in Cambridge,” said Sen. DiDomenico. “Rich was a friend to everyone in the neighborhood and he was always showcasing the amazing potential that existed in our community. He saw the vision for the North Point area and helped establish unique public-private partnerships that resulted in unprecedented economic development and community benefits for the residents and businesses of East Cambridge. I was proud to file this legislation to ensure that Rich's legacy will continue to live on and be recognized by future generations.”

The park first opened in 2007, offering access to the Charles River, as well as views of the Zakim Bridge and Boston skyline. Construction of the park included a $32 million remediation of the site. The park’s features include a network of small islands, bridges, and canals, as well as a playground, splashpad and a segment of the Mass Central Rail Trail. The park directly abuts EF (Education First)’s North American Headquarters and the Lynch Family Skate Park, the first large-scale skate park in New England, and is connected to Paul Revere Park in Charlestown via the North Bank Pedestrian Bridge.

###