Mayor Michelle Wu Renames Bridge Honoring Bill Russell and His Legacy in Boston

Photo byCIty of Boston

Boston, MA – Today, Mayor Michelle Wu, alongside Mrs. Jeannine Russell, Governor Maura Healey, local officials, and Celtics leadership, officially renamed the North Washington Street Bridge as the William Felton ‘Bill’ Russell Bridge. The bridge, currently under construction, will honor Russell's legacy as both a civil rights activist and a Boston Celtics legend.

The renaming ceremony celebrates Russell’s life-long dedication to civil rights, justice, and mentoring young athletes. The bridge, which spans the Charles River and connects Charlestown to the West End and North End near TD Garden, will include a commemorative plaque installed in summer 2025.

“Bill Russell was a champion not only on the basketball court, but in his daily life fighting for equality and serving as a role model for future athletes and activists,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “It’s fitting that a man known for his vision and determination to create bridges to our future will now always be commemorated on the gateway into Downtown Boston.”

Mrs. Jeannine Russell expressed gratitude for the renaming, stating, “This bridge, like Bill, stands strong and enduring. It connects people with purpose, just as he connected the struggles of the past with the hopes of the future.”

Governor Maura Healey also reflected on Russell’s enduring legacy, calling him “a giant,” not just for his athletic achievements but for his contributions to the Civil Rights movement. She remarked on the significance of the bridge, noting it as a symbol of progress.

During the ceremony, Celtics co-owner Steve Pagliuca and former MENTOR CEO David Shapiro emphasized Russell’s groundbreaking work in racial justice and mentorship. Russell was a founding board member of MENTOR, an organization dedicated to fostering quality mentoring relationships for youth.

Russell was not only instrumental in leading the Boston Celtics to 11 NBA championships as both a player and coach but also earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in recognition of his advocacy for equality.

Bridge construction, overseen by MassDOT in collaboration with the City’s Streets Cabinet, is scheduled to be completed by early 2025. The bridge is currently open to drivers and pedestrians while final work continues. MassDOT Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt noted, “As this bridge plays a vital role in connecting communities, it is fitting that it is named after Bill Russell, a man who did those very things throughout his life.”

For more information about the William Felton ‘Bill’ Russell Bridge and its construction progress, visit the City of Boston's website or MassDOT’s project page.

Information for this article was obtained from the City of Boston’s press release.