Proposed South Station Sports Complex Would Have Housed All Four Boston Sports Teams (Photos)

At almost 100 years old, Fenway Park is America’s oldest functional ballpark.

If it weren’t for a decision the Boston Bruins made nearly a half-century ago, Fenway Park may have ceased to exist awhile back.

According to a story unearthed by “Dirty Water” of the By the Banks of the River Charles blog, a plan was instituted in 1964 to build a giant sports complex near South Station, overlooking the Southeast Expressway. The complex would have included a stadium, an arena and a parking area, and would have housed all four Boston sports teams.

In a demonstration of the sign of the times, the $90 million complex was to be partially funded by dog racing within the arena.

Thankfully for Fenway enthusiasts, the Boston Bruins balked at the idea of moving out of the Boston Garden — which they owned — and rejected the plans.

For pictures of the proposed complex, as well as photos from a pre-renovation South Station in 1957, check out the gallery below.

Click here to see photos of the proposed South Station sports complex >>