The Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) Board has recently approved three significant development projects aimed at transforming local communities while addressing housing shortages in the city. These milestones mark a substantial step toward fostering a more resilient, affordable, and equitable Boston.
The newly sanctioned developments will encompass approximately 920,062 square feet and create a total of 820 residential units, including 163 income-restricted units. This initiative is projected to generate around 801 construction jobs along with 61 permanent positions, effectively contributing to the local economy.
In detail, the 75 Morrissey Boulevard project is set to establish 754 residential units in Dorchester. Of these, 151 units will be designated as income-restricted, promoting affordable housing in the neighborhood. The project will feature two new buildings, alongside retail and civic spaces that will enhance community engagement.
Additionally, a community park will be included on-site, prioritizing green space for local residents. To ensure connectivity and accessibility, both on-site and off-site roadway improvements will accompany this phase, facilitating pedestrian, bike, and vehicular movement. Notably, the project pledges to adhere to sustainable building practices, achieving LEED Gold certification and incorporating Passive House standards.
Following this, the 1444-1446 Dorchester Avenue project aims to revitalize an underutilized commercial site to house 47 new residences, including nine income-restricted units. This mixed-use development will marry residential and commercial needs while preserving the historic Clap-Field house, which will be converted into two living units.
Moreover, the project will contribute to enhancing the area’s public realm with landscaping features and streetscape improvements, further advancing the City’s Squares + Streets initiative. An investment of $12,925 will also be directed towards increasing support for the bikeshare system, thus promoting sustainable transportation.
Meanwhile, the 344-350 Washington Street project in Brighton will add 19 homeownership units to the skyline, with three income-restricted units within the mix. The locality’s emphasis on pedestrian safety includes significant streetscape enhancements alongside the addition of retail space on the ground floor. As a transit-oriented development, it enjoys close proximity to the Boston Landing commuter rail station and other public transportation options.
This particular project underscores the BPDA’s commitment to fostering mixed-use developments that serve varied community needs while promoting sustainability through LEED Gold certification. Additionally, $5,225 will be allocated to support the bikeshare system, and a further $19,000 will contribute to maintaining nearby public green spaces.
In tandem with the approval of these three development projects, several additional measures aimed at enhancing economic and community opportunities have also received the green light. Notably, the BPDA approved an update for a previously sanctioned project at 9 Geneva Street; this revision alters the building’s intended use from rental units to condominiums.
Financial support initiatives have been established as well, with $500,000 in Neighborhood Development Funds allocated to bolster the Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion’s Commercial Acquisition Assistance Program. To fortify community sustainability efforts, another allocation of $100,000 in Neighborhood Development Funds is designated to assist the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts in acquiring property to establish a sustainability hub.
As Boston continues to navigate the complexities of urban development, these new initiatives reflect a strategic approach to enhance the quality of life for its residents while fostering inclusive growth. The BPDA’s commitment to developing affordable housing, promoting community engagement, and sustaining local economies are at the forefront of these ambitious projects.
The successful implementations of such developments underscore the importance of balanced urban planning and the vital role it plays in driving Boston towards a more inclusive future.
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