The Red Sox organization initially petitioned the city to change the name of the street outside the ballpark from Yawkey Way back to the previous name of Jersey Street weeks ago.
The late Tom Yawkey, former team owner, has been called racist by some, in part over the long delayed racial integration of the ball club.
Defenders of the Yawkey name believe the name change would harm the reputation of the philanthropic Yawkey Foundation.
Yawkey Foundation issued a statement shortly after the vote.
NEW: Statement from Yawkey Foundations on decision to change name of Yawkey Way outside #FenwayPark to Jersey Street.
— Peter Wilson (@PetesWire) April 26, 2018
"This a sad day for all of us at the Foundations."@boston25 #boston#RedSox pic.twitter.com/L2uSlqgINz
The City of Boston Public Improvement Commission has the final say over street names.
About a month ago, the commission took about two hours of heated opinions from both sides, tabling the issue for two weeks.
Two weeks ago, the Red Sox organization sent a letter standing by its petition, but asking for a delay in the vote so the public would have more time to weigh in.
Just last week, team president Sam Kennedy told sports radio station WEEI the Sox still want the street name changed.
About the Author