Rosemary S. Tierney Community Center dedicated in New Bedford

Mayor Jon Mitchell, joined by former Mayor Rosemary S. Tierney and her family and friends, along with current and former City officials, formally dedicated the Hazelwood Senior Center in Mayor Tierney’s honor on Friday morning.

In May, Mayor Mitchell proposed that former Mayor Tierney be honored for her many public achievements and contributions to the City of New Bedford as Mayor, School Committee member, Governor’s Councilor, and board member of the regional refuse district. The City Council unanimously approved the honor in October.

Rosemary S. Tierney, the first woman ever elected Mayor of New Bedford, served as Mayor from 1992 to 1998. Her tenure was marked by notable accomplishments including the designation of the historic district as a National Park, the establishment of the New Bedford Art Museum, and the dedication of City resources to restore the Buttonwood Park Zoo, among many others.

Former Mayors John A. Markey, John K. Bullard, Frederick M. Kalisz Jr., and Scott W. Lang joined Mayor Tierney at the dedication. Mayor Jon Mitchell praised Mayor Tierney’s leadership and vision.

“Mayor Tierney’s work was founded on her determination to make New Bedford a better place, and she was committed to ensuring that city government functioned effectively and that the city received the recognition it deserves,” said Mayor Mitchell. “She dedicated her adult life to serving the residents of the city, and this lasting tribute honors her focus on improving parks and city spaces and the special attention she paid to provide for the needs of senior citizens.”