A legal battle between a Dallas-based apartment developer and the City of Boston regarding a controversial apartment project in Hyde Park has reached a critical juncture, following a recent court ruling.
Willow Bridge, an affiliate of the property owner Jubilee Christian Church, prevailed against the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA), which had delayed their plans for constructing over 200 apartments on a property cherished by local residents.
In a decision made on April 10, Land Court judge Kevin Smith ruled that the BPDA cannot demand extensive redesigns of development projects that comply with the existing zoning code.
The legal confrontation centered around accusations that the BPDA was causing unnecessary delays by mandating changes not required for zoning compliance.
Willow Bridge and Jubilee initially set out to build 270 units on the 24-acre site known locally as “Crane Ledge Woods”, but they later scaled back their plans to 204 units.
Andrew Ward, executive director of business at Jubilee, expressed relief at the ruling.
“We’re excited and happy at the outcome,” he said, referring to the protracted process of moving forward with the project.
Following the court ruling, the project will return to the BPDA for further review.
Judge Smith instructed the agency to evaluate any additional information within a 30-day period after the developer submits its revised design documents, which were filed recently.
Kelly Frey, a partner at the Mintz law firm representing Willow Bridge, remarked on the extensive reviews the project has endured, expressing hope that the decision would expedite the BPDA’s finalization of the review process.
The property at 990 American Legion Highway was initially considered for the construction of a new church, but plans changed when a former mayor aimed to boost housing development in the area.
Various proposals, including those featuring big-box stores like Home Depot or Walmart, were discussed over the years before the collaboration with Lincoln Property Co. emerged to pursue the residential development.
However, the project quickly garnered fierce opposition from local residents.
The “Save Crane Ledge Woods” coalition emerged in response, asserting the importance of the site as Boston’s largest unprotected “urban wild,” which plays a crucial role in supporting wildlife and providing environmental benefits.
In light of the court ruling, Frank O’Brien from the Crane Ledge Woods Coalition emphasized the opportunity it presents for discussions about preserving the urban woodland.
“The site as an urban woodland should be acquired for public benefit purposes,” he asserted, highlighting the potential for a dialogue between Mayor Michelle Wu’s administration, the church, and the developer regarding the future of the property.
The BPDA has yet to comment publicly on the court’s decision as the community awaits the next steps in what has become a highly contentious development proposal in Hyde Park.
image source from：https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/04/18/business/crane-ledge-hyde-park-housing/
