A judge has ruled that the demolition of Boston's White Stadium can proceed, facilitating its renovation for both city schoolchildren and the new professional women's soccer team, Boston Legacy FC.

The renovation is projected to cost over $200 million, with taxpayers covering half of the expenses.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu hailed the ruling as a 'historic victory' for students and the community, emphasizing the project's benefits.

The lawsuit alleged that the project did not undergo necessary reviews under Article 97 of the Massachusetts Constitution, which focuses on environmental protections and open space.

Opponents, including the Franklin Park Defenders, argue that a fully public stadium option would be cheaper and would not displace student-athletes, proposing an estimated cost of $29 million for their alternative plan.

Judge Matthew Nestor dismissed half of a lawsuit filed by the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and local residents, which claimed the project violated the public charitable trust established for the land.

Concerns from community members include potential displacement, noise, light pollution, litter, tree removal, traffic, and parking issues related to the stadium's redevelopment.

Public records revealed that discussions about the stadium rehab began before the official RFP was released, and Boston Unity was the sole bidder.

With the lawsuit dismissed, the city is proceeding with construction, aiming to complete the renovation in time for the National Women’s Soccer League season starting in March 2026.

The city's contribution to the renovation project has increased from an initial $50 million to $91 million, with the NWSL team covering the other half of the costs.

Emerald Necklace Conservancy President Karen Mauney-Brodek criticized the process, arguing that significant changes to public land require thorough public review and consideration of alternatives.

Wu highlighted the unique aspect of the project, noting it will be the only stadium in the U.S. where a professional sports team pays rent to share the facility with a public school district.