The three factions of the 12-member panel do agree on a numberof basic points. Mainly that a non-profit group should be createdto deal with maintenance and potential projects on the 75% of the30 acres that will be left as open space. The remaining 25% of thatland will be set aside for commercial uses. Comprising this newgroup will be representatives from interested groups as well asfrom the state and city.

The two major sticking points for the differing factions are howthis new group will be funded and how much control it will haveover design and construction of the open space area. Legislativeleaders and city Mayor Thomas M. Menino would like to give thegroup power of approval on design and construction projects on it.The problem is that, according to the Massachusetts TurnpikeAuthority, some of the design and construction contracts havealready been bid out as part of larger Big Dig projects.

Various proposals were offered to deal with the funding issue.The Big Dig has $65 million set aside to build the park system, but$6 million a year will be needed for operations and maintenance.The city proposed that the money be raised from the state, city andother contributors but did not define how the money would beraised. The Turnpike Authority proposed establishing an endowment,which would provide ongoing funding for the group, but it isunclear if the commission will accept that proposal.