Good afternoon. My name is Raheem Shepard. I am the vice chair of the BPDA board. Chair Ro is unavailable today and will not be attending the meeting. Thank you for joining the October 16th, 2025
Economic Development and Industrial Corporation of Boston board meeting. At this time, the Boston Plan and Development Agency is hosting public meetings in a hybrid setting for the health, safety, and accessibility of Boston residents. Hybrid means that our
board meetings are conducted in person at city hall in our boardroom on the ninth floor virtually via Zoom and Boston City TV. For more information and updates, visit bostonplans.org. The open public meeting law requires
that I notify the public that this is a meeting is being recorded. Please be aware that an audio and visual recording of this meeting is being made and broadcast by the Boston City TV, which is part of the city of Boston Office of Cable
Communication at Xfinity channel 26, RCN channel 13 and Verizon Files channel 962 and live stream at Boston Gov/Cable. If anyone in the audience here is
recording, please identify yourself. With that, we will do a roll call. Officers, >> Miss Bennett, >> present. >> Dr. Lansbar, >> present. >> Mr. Ali >> here.
>> And chair is present. Thank you. Our first item, item number one, request authorization for the approval of the minutes of September 18th, 2025 board meeting. Board members, are there any questions
or any changes? Seeing inherent none, a motion is in order. >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I >> I. >> Any oppose? Motion approved. The next three items on our agenda today
will be all I will read them all out uh two, three and four and after that we will have Dennis come up and speak on those and then after that we will cast a vote for each item on the docket.
Item number two, request authorization to amend the lease with Droplet Inc. for the continued use of 12 channel street number 601 and number 602 in the Raymond L. Flynn Marina Park until October 31st,
2028. Item number three, request authorization to amend the lease with Boston Print Specialist DBA Alpha Graphics Boston for continued use of 12 Channel Street suite
number 804 in the Raymond L. Flynn Marina Park until October 31st, 2035 with two 5-year extension terms. Item number four, request authorization to amend the lease with GMA Group,
Inc., excuse me, DBA Pettock for the continued use of 12 Channel Street suite number 104 and the Raymond L. Flynn Marina Park until October 31st, 2033 with one 5-year extension turn option.
Dennis, please. >> Thank you, Vice Chair Shepard. Um, thank you all for allowing uh the consolidation of these three votes. They all tell the same good story. Uh in previous meetings uh during the past year, I had commented on the upcoming
vacancies at 12 Channel Street and the um efforts that we're taking to both market the property to attract new tenants and to incentivize existing tenants to extend their existing lease terms. Uh the general business model for tenant retention strategy is to decrease
the rent in the short term to reflect the current market conditions in exchange for adding additional years at the end of the term of the existing lease. You'll see from the PowerPoint that we are requesting permission to amend three leases. Droplet Inc. on the sixth floor, Boston Print Specialists or
Alpha Graphics as I know them on the eighth floor and GMA Group or Pete's Doide on the first floor. Um, when when negotiating lease extensions, we considered the the current market realities, uh, potential loss of cash flow should the tenant elect to leave at
the end of their lease if we did not extend it, and the likelihood of paying real estate commissions and possibly tenant improvement dollars for new tenants. Uh, in that context, the reduced rents in the short term are are more they more than justify the
additional years um added to the leases. In this case, Droplet, we're adding one year to allow them to restructure Castro to satisfy the debt um some current debt with us. Uh Boston Print Specialist is celebrating the um extension of their
franchise agreement with Alpha Graphics and they are uh uh looking to extend their lease for eight additional years. Um and Pete Stockite on the first floor is suffering uh some cash flow problems right now, but primarily because of all the construction going on at the building. It's that there's a lot
there's a lot of construction going on which isn't isn't helping. But once that's once that's over, we expect the business is going to pick up uh as it was before. Um as if approved today, uh the the guaranteed total revenue for those
subject sites will increase between seven and 19% over the terms of the leases. Also giving us a steady predictable cash flow for our friends in the finance department as they're doing the annual budgets. Um, these three proposed leases uh are mutually beneficial to both tenants and and EDIC.
Um, just to recap real quickly, since January 2024, we've extended terms uh and we've extended terms with six tenants in 12 Channel Street. We've brought on and welcomed two new tenants. This is all since January of 24. And uh
if I can be presumptuous, if today's approval, we will have locked down 65% of the leasable space in 12 Channel Street for the next several years. Um there's currently five suites remaining available. They vary in size and condition. One suite we will be
converting to a storage area. We'll uh be installing more literally chain link cages. Uh some of our tenants having problems with their with their product and they need a place to store it. Um so that that'll be one way to help uh um the operations of the building as well. The remaining suites the remaining
suites we will continue to market via traditional methods and I look forward to returning to future board meetings and more good news. >> Thank you very much Dennis. Does the board have any questions? >> Uh just briefly uh Dennis why in Pete's
do side does the 2031 rent go up so much higher? you know, the others seem to be 26 to 29, 14 to 26 over 10 years, and that's a almost triples over six years. >> Uh, that was because the $15 deduction was was a big drop. So, we're we're
we're lowering the rent in the short term and the $42 is above what they would have been had we not lowered it. >> Now, it it was more it was just a negotiation that that >> No, it's fine. Listen, the more the more we can generate it, the better. I was just curious. Okay. So, and is it higher
because also it's a the square footage is smaller? >> That's for the Pete's Dark Side restaurant on the first floor of the of 12 Channel Street. >> Okay. Okay. Thank you. >> And they're all I mean there is cookie cutters. We can make them, but every every deal is different. So, you got to negotiate it. Roll up your sleeves and
make the numbers work. >> Okay. >> Are there any additional questions from the board? Seeing hearing none, uh I will read each item individually and we will vote upon each item. Thank you. Item number two,
request authorization to amend the lease with Droplet, Inc. for the continued use of 12 Channel Street number 601 and number 602 and the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park until October 31st, 2028.
Motion's in order. >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> any oppose? Motion's approved. Item number three, request authorization to amend the lease with Boston Print Specialist
DBA Alpha Graphics Boston for the continued use of 12 channel Street suite number 804 and the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park until October 31st, 2035 with two five-year extension terms options.
>> Is there a motion? >> So moved. Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. >> And I >> Oh, there's one more. >> Sorry. >> Item number four, request authorization to amend the lease with GMA Group, Inc.
DBA for the continued use of 12 channel suite number 104 in the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park until October 31st, 2033 with one 5-year extension term option. >> So moved.
>> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? I have. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Item number five, request authorization to execute a memorandum of understanding
with the Boston Police Department to establish respective responsibilities for the mutual sharing of video camera data on the EDIC owned properties. Lauren. >> Uh, thank you, Vice Chair, members of the board. My name is Lauren Fernstein.
I'm the deputy director of operations and administration for the real estate department and I'm here before you today uh to work on security. It's my favorite topic. The BPDA currently operates a small localized security video management system at select sites within
the Raymond Elflin Marine Park. We're actively expanding the footprint of this camera and access control system in order to improve situational awareness, support incident response, and enhance public safety across our properties. To improve reliability and coordination,
the BPDA system will integrate with the city of Boston's federated system, which is managed by DIT. As a member of Boston agency, the BPDA can securely participate in the federation which enables controlled video sharing while maintaining independent system
management. The federation includes the following city entities. The Boston Police Department, the Boston Housing Authority, the City of Boston Office of Emergency Management, the City of Boston Property Management Department, and the City of Boston Transportation Department.
Only exterior-facing cameras will ever be shared with partners in the federation. All internal building footage and door access data will remain siloed and inaccessible to external partners. This separation is intentional and designed to protect tenant privacy
and operational integrity. Also important to note is that access through the federation is conditioned on agreements between each individual participating agency. For thisouou, I'm requesting today that we authorize an agreement with the Boston Police to
access our exterior facing cameras on BPDA properties. In line with other federated agreements that the Boston police has with the other agencies in the federation, Boston police will also assume responsibility for responding to any public rel public
records foyer request related to this footage. The agreement also affirms reciprocal access. Any Boston Police cameras that are pointed at our property or on our property, we will be given access to. I'm happy to answer any questions.
>> Thank you very much. Are there any questions from the board? Seeing and hearing none, is there a motion in order? >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I oppose. Eyes have it. Thank you, Lauren. Thank you very much.
Item number six, request authorization to extend the tenative designation status of the Cronin Group LLC by 6 months through April 30th, 2026 in the continued lease negotiation with
the Cronin Group LLC to facilitate the long-term lease and redevelopment of the EDIC owned 24 dry dock a site in the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park. Dennis again. >> Thank you, Vice Chair Shepard. Uh the planning department issued a request for
proposals for the redevelopment of 24 Drydock um back in July of 2019. Uh 24 Drydock is a vacant 30,000 foot building located within the boundaries of the Boston Ship Repair Facility um in the Raymond Flint Marine Park. Um the
shipyard, they really didn't use the building for much. Occasionally from storage was basically basically a vacant building. Um the the RFP required that the development be consistent with the Raymond Flynn master plan update and support maritime development as a
condition of the award. In January of 2020, uh the Cro Cronin development was selected as a developer. They're proposing a 235,000 square foot life science building um on the site. Um, subsequently,
uh, post post designation award, Cronin purchased the Boston Ship Repair Company and now controls the entire lease premises. Um, and they operate the successful Boston Ship Repair there. Now, um, the designation has been extended 10 times. The most recent in
April of 25 where the designation was extended through October of 25. Current economic instability notwithstanding uh mater material and construction costs remain high. Cost of borrowing is still high. Um the overbuilding of speculative
life science buildings has resulted in several million square feet of completed buildings um unoccupied. There are two vacant buildings in the in the marine park. Um debt financing without a long-term leasing commitment from a high credit tenant is very unlikely. But
there are the dynamic that's going on in the life science market is there's a lot of bargain hunting going on. A lot of the big players know about the over supply in their and they're shopping now. Um the competition for tenants understandably is is staggering. In the
meantime, Cronin has continued to make progress towards article 80 entitlements. They've been spending money on permitting. One of the major benefits of tentative designation is it secures site control for the developer. meaning that the planning department will not negotiate with any other
prospective developer during the term of the tentative designation to allow that developer uh to continue with a due diligence by virtue of owning the lease between the planning department and bus and ship repair. Cronin literally has site control regardless of whether there's tentative designation.
However, I am requesting a six-month extension of the tentative designation um through April 26. Retaining the designation status will allow Cronin to move expeditiously in the event that a builder to suit opportunity materializes. So this will make them a little more nimble. Um and there's no I
I see no downsize in extending that. Um no one can predict the future but sitting here today I firmly believe that it's in the best interest of of the planning department and Cronin to extend the tentative designation. Um and that is my request. >> Thank you very much Dennis. Are there
any questions from the board? Seeing and hearing none, a motion is in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Item number seven, request authorization
to execute a contract with McKay Construction Services, Inc. for snow plowing, snow shoveling, and removal, salting, and sanding services within the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park for a period of three years with two one-year
extension term options and in an amount not to exceed 217,650 annually. Chris, >> good afternoon, Vice Chair, members of the board, Madame Secretary, Director Shine. My name is Chris Garopoulos. I am the facilities coordinator for the
planning department. I'm here today to present the results for the snowplow removal services contract for the Rayman El Flynn Marine Park. The selected vendor will be responsible for providing comprehensive snow plowing, removal, salting, sanding services throughout the marine park. The scope includes
furnishing all necessary labor, materials, equipment, transportation supplies, and services required to perform the work efficiently and safely. In response to the invit for the invitation for bids issued on June 30th, 2025, the BPDA rece received three bids
which were publicly opened on July 17, 2025. After reviewing all submissions, McKay Construction Services, Inc. was determined to be the most responsible and responsive bidder. The resulting contract will be for an annual amount of $217,650,
totaling up to $652,950 for the initial three-year term. If both renewal options are exercised, the total contract value is not expected to exceed $1,199,750 over a 5-year period. This contract will be funded through the BPDA's fiscal year
26 operating budget and represents a critical ongoing operational expense to maintain the safety and accessibility of the marine park for our visitors, employees, and tenants. I would be happy to answer any questions. >> Thank you very much, Chris. Are there any questions from the board?
Seeing and hearing none, a motion is in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. >> Thank you. >> Thank you again. >> Item number eight, request authorization to issue an invitation for bids for the
construction of the Boston Harbor Fender Pile repairs in EDIC owned properties. William, >> thank you and good afternoon to the chair and members of the board. Today we are requesting authorization to issue a construction invitation for bids for the fender pile repairs in Boston Harbor on
both Bar and EDIC property. This is related to the planned sale Boston 250 event that is happening next July, July of 2026 where we're going to have a number of international tall ships visiting Boston and the agency anticipates a significant increase in
requests to birth those large vessels on our property. So, we're trying to get ahead of those requests and make sure that those typical birthing locations are ready to go. Uh, this presentation is going to be the same for one later in the evening. Just want to highlight that for you. Uh, we have two properties on
the EDIC. Uh, one being the South Jetty out in the marine park there. We are installing Moring Dolphins where we've recently demolished the pure structure out there. The other one is the Raymond Marine Park Pier 5. We're going to be installing some floating camels which
will allow vessels to birth up against that pier. And the bar property is anticipated to be pier 4 in the Charlestown Navyyard where we need to do some repairs to those existing fender piles. Uh the bid package has been prepared by Child's Engineering in compliance with state law chapter 3039M.
That contract would be awarded to the lowest bidder after being brought back to the board for approval. The current estimate for this project, all three, is in the neighborhood of $3.6 $6 million. Uh we have a sizable contribution from the city of Boston in the current uh
FY25 capital budget for this work and I anticipate on returning to the board next month with award recommendations so that we can get this work done over the winter and spring in time for the event next summer. Happy to answer any questions you have. >> Thank you, William. Are there any
questions from the board? >> Seeing and hearing none, a motion is in order. >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> I >> Any oppose? Eyes have it. Again, thank you. >> Item number nine, request authorization
to issue a request for proposal for qualified training providers supporting the Power Corpse Boston operation program which trains participants in industrial recognized HVACR certifications and credentials. Davo.
>> Good afternoon, esteemed board members. I'm Davo Jefferson. I'm the executive director of Power Core Boston. It's a workforce development training program that helps young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 uh get training and secure employment in a green industry. Uh we're
requesting authorization to advertise and issue an RFP for program training for the Power Core Boston building operations cohort. Uh this training program will provide training services in the following areas. Hot Works, commercial industrial refriger
refrigeration prep, HVACR, ESCO, HVAC, NATE, and construction math. Uh through this training opportunity, the cohorts would earn 70 hours of theory towards the 100hour mass refrigeration technician license requirement while preparing for multiple
industry recognized credentials uh including EPA 608 refrigerant recovery certification, hotwork certification, ESCO HVAC uh employment ready exam, NATE ready to work exam and construction math. This training pathway is designed
to equip Power Core Boston participants in building operations with the technical skills and certifications necessary to advance NHV ACR and building operations careers. Um, in order to assist the office of workforce development and power core Boston in
meeting training obligations in strengthening service requirements tied to opera funding and other grant sources, staff request the board's approval uh to issue an RFP to secure qualified training providers for the Power Core Boston HVAC
initiative. Approval uh of this request will enable the Office of Workforce Development to procure services that deliver technical instruction and industry recognized certifications, ensuring our members gain the skills, credentials, and hands-on experience necessary to pursue sustainable careers
in HVAC and building operations. Um, thank you and I'm happy to answer any questions you guys may have. Okay. >> Well, I do apologize and thank you for your presentation. No problem. Board, >> are there any questions? Seeing hearing none, there's a motion in
order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? >> Eyes have it. Again, thank you. >> Thank you guys. >> Uh item number 10, personnel. Mike. >> Uh thank you, Vice Chair, members of the
board, Madame Secretary, and Director Shen. We have a number of items for your consideration on the EDIC agenda with the exact details included in the board memos. We have three contracts and the director's office, Kayla McQuarters in
the urban design division, Grace Ing, and in the devel development and review division, uh, Manavi Data. Uh, we also have one internship in the research division, Hannah Chapman. And we have two, uh, out ofstate travel requests.
I'll answer any questions you may have. >> Uh, thank you very much, Mike. Thank you for that. Uh, the board, are there any questions? >> Seeing and hearing none, uh, there's a motion in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I.
>> Any oppose? Eyes have it. Thank you again. >> Next, I will be asking for a motion to adjourn the EDIC meeting. >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? eyes have it.
All right. Thank you for joining the October 16th, 2025 Boston Redevelopment Authority Board meeting. At this time, the Boston Planning and Development Agency is hosting public meetings in a hybrid setting for the health, safety, and accessibility of the Boston
residents. Hybrid means that our board meetings are conducted in person at city hall in our boardroom on the ninth floor and virtually via Zoom in Boston city TV. At the same time, for more information
and updates, visit boston plan.org. The open public meeting law requires that I notify the public that this is a meeting is this meeting is being recorded. Please be aware that an audio and visual recording of this meeting is being made and broadcast by the Boston
City TV which part which is part of the city of Boston office and cable communication at Xfinity channel 26, RCN channel 13 and Ver Verizon files channel 962 in liveream at Boston Gers cable.
If there is anyone in the audience who is recording this meeting, please identify yourself now. Thank you. We will start this meeting with a roll call. Miss Bennett >> present. >> Dr. Lansmark >> present. >> Mr. Omali >> here.
>> And the chair is present. Thank you. We will interrupt our next agenda to first introduce councelor Kleta. >> Hi everyone. I'm not councelor Kleta but I'm her chief of staff at least Sanchez on behalf of the counselor.
>> Hello. You must you may go. >> Awesome. Good afternoon members of the board. Um I'm here on behalf of councelor Gabriela Ka Zapata. Um, and at this time I want to read uh a letter on
behalf of her office. Um, uh, these are comments on Austin Street Lots redevelopment project. Um, and so here we go. Dear chair and members of the board, as the city council representing Charles Town, I write regarding the regarding the Austin Street Lots
redevelopment project PDA number 156 and the building B development plan scheduled for your consideration on this day. This project represents a significant opportunity to advance the goals of plan Charles Town, particularly the creation of mixed income housing,
public open space, and improve multi-transit connections for pedestrians along New Rutherford Avenue corridor. I appreciate the extensive public engagement undertaken over the past year and the commitment to align the design with both the city's flood resiliency standards and the article 37
green building requirements. I want to acknowledge the sub substantial community benefits reflected in the master plan and building B proposal. The commitment to 123 deeply affordable rental units, all income restricted and
serving households from below 30% to 80% AMI directly addresses the pressing need for affordability in Charlestown. The inclusion of accessible units, on-site project-based vouchers, and adherence to affirmatively furthering fair housing
goals is commendable. I also want to highlight appreciation for the design approach that transitions building heights toward the residential edge of the neighborhood, incorporates a well landscape urban plaza and lawn, and supports active ground floor uses that
can enliven the public realm. The focus on sustainability sets an appropriate precedent for publicly owned redevelopment sites. However, I respectfully urge the BPDA and the development team to continue refining several key aspects of the project as
the project advances. The project's long-term success depends on safe, direct, and accessible pedestrian bicycle connections to the community college MBTA station and surrounding blocks. Interim and permanent improvements to crossings at Austin
Street and the new Rutherford Avenue should be closely coordinated with the city's Rutherford Avenue redesign to ensure safety and continuity. As future phrases move forward, the VPDA should also ensure that the promises promised public athletic fields and
recreational spaces remain central to the buildout with programming that reflects community priorities. The proposal's commitments to a community center in partnership with the YMCA and an on-site child care facility are essential components of a truly holistic
sub neighborhood and must be delivered as promised. If any of these public benefits are at risk of being deferred or removed in future phases, the BPDA and the proponent should provide a clear justification and a concrete mitigation plan. Since the area is owned by the
BPDA, we expect these commitments to be upheld. We also expect the construction phase will prioritize Charleston residents through a robust local hiring requirement, targeted outreach to working people in relevant trades, and strict adherence to prevailing wage
standards for everyone employed on the site. I appreciate the work of BPDA staff. Uh, shout out to Sarah Pek, Trinity Financial, and community members in shaping this project. With continued attention to these priorities, the Austin Street
redevelopment can serve as a model for equitable, resilient, and communitydriven growth in Charles Town. Sincerely, Gabriel Kleta Zabata, Boston City Council, District 1. Thank you, everyone. >> Thank you. >> We'll take Diana Brunchuk now from
councelor Pepin's office. Thank you everyone. Good afternoon. This is Diana Bronchek from District 5 City Council Enrique Pen's office and I will be stating a statement from the councelor for number 14 on the agenda. I strongly support the implementation of
the direct displacement disclosure pilot. The pilot will ensure that as Boston grows, we grow responsibly with fairness, transparency, and accountability. I've always supported efforts to reszone our commercial squares and main streets for may for more housing, more businesses, and more
life into our beloved neighborhoods. But we also have to make sure that this progress doesn't inadvertently hurt the people who built these communities. This proposal helps strike that crucial balance. My office has been involved with a number of commercial tenants being caught off guard by their
landlord's decision to sell their property long after any negoti negotiation opportunity has passed. By requiring developers to notify tenants early and disclose any potential displacement as part of their project filing or making sure residents, small
businesses, and cultural organizations have a fair voice in the process and that the city can step in to help mitigate displacement before it happens. Development and equity can go hand in hand. The displacement, the direct displacement disclosure gives us the tools to protect what makes our
neighborhoods strong while still welcoming the investment and growth that Boston needs. This is how we build a city where everyone has a place in the future. Thank you for allowing me to speak. >> Thank you. Are there any other elected
officials? No. Uh with that, uh we will return back to regular order of business. Item number one, request authorization for the approval of minutes of the September 18th, 2025 board meeting. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor?
>> Any oppose? Eyes have it. Thank you. Item number two, request authorization to execute a memorandum of understanding with the Boston Police Department establishing respective responsibilities for the mutual sharing of video camera
data on the BRA owned properties. Lauri, >> thank you again. Uh, this is the same motion as earlier. It's just for the BPDA properties uh and our security coverage. >> Yes. Thank you. >> Welcome. >> Are there any questions from the board?
The same prohibition is that it would just be exterior cameras, not interior cameras. >> That we will never share any internal cameras with any of the other affiliated agencies. Okay, great. Thank you. >> Thank you. Are there any other questions? >> Seeing and hearing none. A motion's in
order. >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> I have it. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Item number three, request authorization to award final designation status of
NUBA LLC for 6 months to April 30th, 2026 as developer of a portion of parcel 8 located at Harrison A. Parcel ID number 082426040 in Washington Street. partial ID number
0802426030 in the Nubian Square area of Roxbury. >> Thank you, Vice Chair and members of the board. Uh I'm so excited to request board approval to award final designation status to NUBA LLC for the redevelopment and sale of parcel 8
located uh located at Harrison Avenue and Washington Street in the Roxberry neighborhood. Uh if we can advance the slide please. All right. Uh, so parcel 8 consists of two contiguous parcels highlighted in red on the map here, uh, with photos of
the current conditions of the site to the left. Uh, the larger parcel is currently owned by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts under care and control of DCR. Uh, and the smaller parcel is um owned by the city of Boston under the care and control of the mayor's office
of housing. Uh the disposition RFP for this site was originally envisioned through a robust community process as part of the plan Dudley Square, now known as Plan Nubian Square. The board originally voted to award NUBA LLC, a joint venture between Urbanica and NHP
Foundation, a tenative designation on Octo uh sorry, April 15, 2021. Uh next slide, please. Um so NUBA LLC is proposing to create two buildings of approximately 110,000
gross square feet uh which will include 109 all affordable units um consisting of 45 home ownership units and 64 rental units. Uh so this project includes a ground floor commercial space and also the creation of a park on at the corner
of Melia Cass Boulevard and Washington Street. Uh this project was an especially challenging one uh because in addition to the proximity to the Elliot burying ground uh the corner of Washington and Melia Cass uh Boulevard is identified as the Dog Cunningham
archaeological site. Um as a result about 8,600 square feet portion of that corner of land is to be developed as a public park subject to preservation and conservation restriction. Um so this project really tries to do it all. um you know creating muchneeded affordable
rental and uh most importantly home ownership opportunities uh in the Roxberry neighborhood on an underutilized public land owned by the state and the city. Um not only that we're creating a public park uh that protects and re-emphasizes the
historical significance of this site. Uh as you can imagine, this required an incredible amount of coordination uh between multiple city and state departments uh including not only the planning department and the mayor's office of housing, but also with parks, environment, um archaeology, landmarks
within the city and also with DCR, DAM, um MHC, and Mass Housing at the state level, just to name a few. Next slide, please. Uh this rendering shows the home ownership building in the front and the apartment building in the rear uh and
the park design at the corner tracing the foundation of the archeological um sites um underneath. Next slide please. Um so this is another closer look at the um park design. Uh so since receiving
its uh tenative designation, NUBA LLC has received article 80 BPDA board approval awarded um mass works funding. Uh they also finalized the design of the buildings and the park with all of the authorities having jurisdiction. Um
we also received MHC and conservation commission's approval of both the preservation and the cons uh conservation restrictions respectively. uh and receive approval for the final plans and specs from the BPDA. Uh so now the project is currently in the process
of finalizing the financing commitments and the LDA and deed. Uh so following this vote, New LLC anticipates submitting for a building permit and finalizing the construction closing process for conveyance of the land with the BPDA and commencing construction
over um within hopefully the next few months. Um and thank you. I'm happy to answer any questions. >> Thank you. Are there any questions from the board? >> Seems like a great project. >> Need
>> definitely agree. Are there any other questions or comments from the board? Seeing hearing none, a motion is in order. >> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. Thank you. >> Thank you so much.
Item number four, request authorization to extend the award of final destination status of Window Developers, Inc. as developer of 12 BPDAowned parcels through the neighborhood homes initiative at Hallworthy and Hollander
Streets in the Washington Park urban renewal area project number mass r-24 located in the Roxbury neighborhood until April 30th 2026 again. >> Thank you again vice chair and members of the board. Uh the hollery Hollander
disposition site consists of 12 BPDA owned parcels comprising of 75,000 um 75,000 uh square feet of vacant land in the Washington Park urban mule area in Roxberry. Uh the RFP for this property uh was developed in collaboration with
the mayor's office of housing as part of the neighborhoods homes initiative to promote home ownership opportunities in the Garrison Troder community. Uh the proponent when they developers has proposed approximately 32,000 square feet um new residential space consisting
of three single family homes, eight sidebyside town homes and two two family homes. Um of the 23 units, 16 will be for affordable home ownership and five will be market rate and uh two will be market rate rental units. Um the
affordable homes are evenly distributed between 80% and 100% AMI. Um, so this developer received final designation back in October 2023, uh, with two extensions of three months in April and July of 2024. Since the last extension,
the developer has continued, uh, public right-of-way improvements on Herald Street and finalized the land disposition agreement and deed and has been continuing discussions with the construction lender on steps towards closing. U, there has been a bit of a delay um, just because of one of the
funding sources. they implemented a new um underwriting policy. Uh so the development team has been working through the new process and at this time I would like to request another extension of three months to accommodate this schedule. During this extension period, a developer will be finalizing
and executing the land disposition agreement and deed. Um and therefore I would like to request the board extend the final designation to Windell Developers for additional three months through January 31st, 2026. Um, thank you. Happy to answer any questions.
>> Thank you again. Are there any questions or comments from the board? Seeing hearing none, motion is in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. >> Thank Thank you.
>> Item number five, request authorization to extend the tenative designation of planning office of urban affairs in the Roxbury Stonehouse for the redevelopment and sale of BPDA owned 7 through9 Westminister Terrace in the Roxbury
neighborhood, Washington Park urban renewal area. project number mass R-24 until April 30th, 2026. >> Thank you again, vice chair and members of the board. I promise this is the last one. Um, I'm here to request a six-month
extension to the tenative designation of planning office uh for urban affairs, POA, and the Roxberry Stonehouse, RSH, for the redevelopment of 7 to9 Westminster terrace, which consists of about 5,700 square feet of vacant land
owned by the BPDA. Uh, so the BPDA started this is this position back in 2021 and released the RFP in February 2023. Uh we received one proposal uh at the April 2023 deadline from POA and the Roxberry Stonehouse. Uh POA is a
nonprofit housing developer affiliated with the arch dasis of Austin. And RSH is a nonprofit organization that cares for and protects uh parents and child survivors of domestic abuse and helps them repeat uh rebuild safe, secure and
independent lives. POA and RSH proposal seeks to create 13 uh 13 unit supportive housing and emergency shelter building comprised of 11 studios and two two-bedroom units. Uh since receiving their tenative designation status in October 23 2023 um the team received
three six month extensions in April 24 um April 2024, October 2024 and April 2025 earlier this year. Um since their last extension, the developers um submitted the home loan um federal home loan bank affordable housing program application for funding and also
received their zoning relief and they're very busy working uh towards their winter funding rounds. Um so during this tenants as nation period and RSH will um complete their design development, assemble all the needed financing and
negotiate the terms of the deed and land disposition for the agreement. Um, thank you and happy to answer any questions. >> Thank you. Are there any questions or comments from the board? We're seeing hearing none. Motion's in order.
>> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> I have it. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, sir. >> Yes. Item number six, request authorization to extend the tenative designation of
Madison Park Trinity 2085 development LLC as the redeveloper of parcel B, a portion of parcel 10 in the Roxbury in Roxbury, excuse me, for 6 months until April 30th, 2026. Scott.
>> Thank you, chair, and members of the board. Parcel 10 is located in Roxberry near Nubian Square, adjacent to Mela Cass Boulevard and Washington Street. Earlier phases of parcel 10 redevelopment include a grocery store, groundf flooror commercial or retail space, and mixed income residential
units. Parcel B is the last remaining area of redevelopment on parcel 10. The board originally voted to award Madison Tropical LLC tenative designation on May 15, 2012 and most recently extended the tenative designation for parcel 10B to
Madison Trinity 2085 development LLC on April 10th, 2025. Madison Trinity is proposing to create a mixeduse residential building with 96 residential units, of which 94 will be affordable. The plan also includes community amenity
space and residential parking spaces in a belowgrade parking garage. Since the last extension, Madison Trinity has been in dispute with Tropical Foods, the abutter, regarding alleged impacts of the proposed project. Madison Trinity has continued to advance design improvements and construction budgets
throughout this time while taking into account comments from staff. During the next tenative designation period, the redeveloper seeks to engage further in mediation and resolution of the open litigation matters with Tropical Foods. The redeveloper will will advance the
review and approval of construction drawings and negotiate a ground lease with the BPDA. Thank you, and I'm happy to answer any questions. >> Thank you, Scott. Are there any questions or comments from the board? >> Seeing and hearing none, there's a motion in order. >> So move.
>> Second. >> All in favor? I >> any oppose? Eyes have it. Thank you. Item number seven, request authorization to execute a contract with Greener Group LLC for landscaping services at the
Charlestown Navy Yard for a period of 3 years with two one-year extension term options and a total contract amount not to exceed 889,879. Chris, >> thank you again. I'm here again today to
present the results of the invitation for bids for landscaping services at the Charlestown Navyyard. The work under this contract will be performed at the shipyard park located within the Charlestown Navy Yard along the Freedom Trail. The selected contractor will be responsible for comprehensive
landscaping services including planting, routine maintenance, weeding, watering, mulching, daily trash removal from receptacles, periodic power washing of park surfaces, and snow removal within the designated contract area. In response to the IFB issued on August
11th, 2025, the BPDA received 14 submissions which were opened on August 28th, 2025. Greener Group LLC was determined to be the lowest responsive responsible bidder. The resulting contract will be awarded in the amount of $153,300
annually for initial term of three years. Additionally, a contingency amount not expected to exceed $20,000 annually has been included to address any unanticipated expenses. This contract will be funded through the BPDA fiscal year 26 operating budget. And I'm happy to answer any questions.
>> Thank you very much, Chris. Are there any questions or comments from the board? >> Seeing and hearing none, a motion is in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. Thank >> Thank you.
Item number eight, request authorization to execute a contract with Northeast Weathered Services for citywide site maintenance of BRA owned properties for a contract term of three years with two one-year extension term options and the
total contract amount not to exceed 1,370,565. Francis, >> good afternoon, Mr. Chair, members of the board, Secretary Pulus, Director Shen, my name is Francis Collins from the real estate operations department.
Um, as authorized by this board on July 17, 2025, the invitations for bid went out and it was publicly advertised pursuant to the Mass General Laws Chapter 30B. The scope of services consists of furnishing all necessary
labor, materials, equipment, transportation, supplies, and services for site maintenance services of BPDAowned parcels across the city of Boston. The procurement schedule was as follows. The IFB was released on August
11, 2025. The virtual pre-bid conference was August 13, 2025. And the deadline for bids was August 27th, 2025 with four total bids received. Northeast Weather Services was
deemed by staff to be the most responsible and responsive bidder to submit a bid for a total price of $798,000. Northeast Weather Services is a woman-owned and minority business and are located at 41 Pleasant Street, Sweet
10, Norton, Mass 02766. The award contract will be for an amount not to exceed $266,000 annually with the initial three-year term with the BRA holding two one-year
extension options that may be exercised at the sole discretion of the BPDA. Funding for the project will be from the BPDA operating budget. Happy to answer any questions. >> Thank you, Francis. Are there any questions or comments from the board?
Seeing and hearing none, a motion's in order. >> So moved. Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Item number nine, request authorization to issue invitation for bids for the
construction of the Boston Harbor Fender Pile repairs in Barowned properties. William, >> thank you again to the chair and members of the board. Good afternoon. Uh my presentation for this agenda item is the same as was stated earlier in the meeting for the EDIC portion. Happy to
answer any questions you may have. >> Thank you. Are there any questions or comments from the board? >> Hearing and seeing none. A motion's in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Second. All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. Thank you again.
>> Thank you. >> All right. The next two items are read and presented jointly but voted on separately. Item number 10, request authorization to issue an invitation for bids for the constructions of the Main Street interm
deployable in Charles Town. Item number 11, request authorization to issue an invitation invitation for bids for the construction of the Martins Park interm deployable in Boston. William,
>> thank you. These next two agenda items involve releasing an invitation for bids for construction on city of Boston property. To provide a little bit greater context for this, I'm happy to introduce Chris Osgood, director of the Office of Climate Resilience, and the mayor's senior adviser on
infrastructure. Chris, >> good afternoon, vice chair, members of the board. It's wonderful to see all of you. As William said, uh I'm Chris Osgood. I have the great pleasure of leading the city of Boston's Office of Climate Resilience. we're going to talk a little bit about first some context and then a pair of projects both that
are quick to implement and both which address some of the near-term flood risk that our residents face and our communities face. So you hop to the next slide. Um we know that in our city flood risk uh is not a distant uh concern. These are all images taken between 2018
and 2024. In fact, three of the four highest tide events in the recorded uh city's history occurred in that time period. January of 2018, March of 2018, and January of 2024. If you turn go to the next slide, we know that this is not just a near-term risk, but it's an
increasing risk. Current flood models project that for the city of Boston, we're looking at around 40 inches of sea level rise between the start of the century and the if unressed and during a major storm, a 1% flood event, could cause the scale of inundation that you see on the lefth
hand side of this screen. which is why the planning department, the city as a whole has been hard at work over the last decade building a set of communitydriven datainformed plans that you see on the right to transform Boston's coastline. If you go to the next slide, we are hard at work in moving these projects forward. They are
not just a set of plans, but we have moved forward on a set of demonstration projects. You see roughly 18 locations that are set of near-term projects that the planning department, the parks department, uh and a number of other uh stakeholders are moving forward in our city. And those green dots reflect projects that are already completed.
Places like McConnell Park in Dorchester, Martins Park in the Fort Point Channel, Langon Park in the north end, Ryan Playground, which is underway uh by Sullivan Square. Uh and then in collaboration and really led by Massport Pierce Park phase 2. Um we certainly
have work in front of us, which is why if you go to the next slide, um we are moving forward on three main strategies that are happening at the same time, but really focused on different time horizons. On the right hand side of the screen, you see uh work which we are doing in collaboration with the US Army
Corps of Engineers really focused on long-term infrastructure projects to address long-term risk, risk that the city may face uh for the second half of this century. A lot of the work that's happening in the city though is really on the first two strategies you see on this slide. in the middle, a set of projects that you saw many of in the
previous slide, locations where we would expect flooding here in our city if we do not act in over the course of this decade and early into the next. Uh, and then a set of work being led by our office of emergency management which is really focused on preparedness. The work that William is going to talk about really fits into those first and second
categories. So, you go one more slide forward before I turn it over to William. The city is looking at a set of projects uh that we want to be able to move forward that are quick to build and impactful for our residents to help protect uh and prevent some district scale flooding in both uh the Fort
Points Channel area and in the Charletown area. Um this is work which has been identified and prioritized in collaboration between the city's planning department and the office of climate resilience. And I want to recognize Cassenia Aquaviva and Nellia Rodriguez from both of those departments who really led a lot of the initial
planning. It is phenomenal to be able to work with uh the real estate division given their expertise in both planning and in collaboration with the urban design division and obviously in engineering and construction. And so as we turn to engineering construction, I will turn over to William and look forward to any questions you may have.
>> All right, thank you Chris. Uh so we're going to talk about two sites briefly. The first on the next slide is Main Street in Charles Town. This is over by Sullivan Square and the Shaft Center. Uh, this is going to follow city- owned property in front of the Shaft Center. It's going to run along new
infrastructure, a bike lane. It's going to cross uh Massport Ride ofway where there's the train crossing. Uh, and it's going to end near Engine 32, the Boston Fire Department building. Uh, this is a mixed solution. We're going to do cast inplace concrete flood wall. We're also
going to do a swing gate over the rail crossing. And we're going to do uh a deployable uh referred to as stop logs in front of the shaft's rideway. There's a driveway there. Uh we're also going to install a raised crosswalk which will not only improve the pedestrian and
bicycle access and improve safety, but it's going to allow this resilient infrastructure to operate more efficiently. If we look at the next slide, you will see the flood pathways that we're looking to address. This is as we currently see it. So the large
white rectangular on the top there is the shaft building. The water is coming off of the Mystic River there and it's continuing to flow past the shafts and into uh the neighborhood impacting uh 11 buildings. If we look at the next slide,
you'll see with the red line, we're going to install uh this infrastructure that I've described and it's going to keep the water right there at the shafts parking lot. So hopefully at some point in time uh there can be a more permanent solution to keep the water where the water belongs. But at least in the
interimm we're going to have this flood wall and these deployables uh able to be implemented so that we can stop that flooding from entering the neighborhood and again protecting at least uh 11 properties. Uh we're working very closely with Massport CSX that's the
rail operator as well as the Flatly companies and currently everybody is playing nice. So, we're looking forward to getting this IFBB out and starting construction uh this winter or early spring. If we go to the next slide, we'll start talking about Martins's Park
in South Boston. So, Martins Park was actually built as a resilient piece of in infrastructure. Uh there is a walkway that goes through the park that provides neighborhood access to the harbor walk along the Fort Point Channel and this
remains a current uh flood access point that we're looking to close. Uh this will actually be a permanent measure. We're implementing it as part of our interimm deployables which is a strategy to address current flooding needs while we address more permanent infrastructure
elsewhere. But this one within the park is actually going to stay uh permanent. We're working very closely with the parks department, the Richard's family, friends of Martins's Park, and we're also coordinating with the initial landscape architect who created uh this
park. We're doing stop logs across the uh the walkway, so if flooding is projected, folks can go out there and deploy those and then remove them as soon as the flood event has passed. On the next slide, we're going to see that Martins Park is part of a districtwide
initiative, and I'm going to be returning before you in the next couple of months with two other efforts uh not on BRA property. I'm going to give you a quick highlight of those now. Uh they are both the children's museum and there's a public alleyway uh in the
neighborhood. We're currently working with the private property owners of the Children's Museum. We're also working uh closely with property abutters in an alleyway so that we can do two additional interimm deployables there and collectively that will address
significant flood access path. If we go to the next slide you'll start to see a rendering of what we're doing on that alleyway that I mentioned and on the next slide you will see the overall impacts that we're trying to address uh with these uh measures. So you can see
Martins's Park is up there at the top of the screen and then there's two additional red areas. The larger one is over by the Children's Museum and the smaller one at the bottom of the screen is over at that public alleyway. Uh if we go to the next slide, you'll start to see our timeline for these two
projects. We're ready to go. We want to issue the invitation to bids uh on Monday, actually, provided that you give us your approval this evening. Uh I'm hoping that we can get those bid backs uh those bids back and come back before the board next month so that we could execute these contracts uh in December
of this month and get construction going over the winter and into the spring. Uh permitting is already underway for both of these sites. Uh and before I go on to the request, I want to acknowledge uh many folks who have been involved in this. First, uh, Chief Ozgood, Chief
Sweat, our own Chief Kyros Shen, and their respective departments and staff, uh, specifically the environment department, the parks department, and the public works department, uh, the office of climate resilience, Chris's staff, uh, specifically Naelli. She has been instrumental in moving this
forward. She recently went out on maternity leave and graciously handed this project back. Uh, she gave it to us in a very good position. We have external partners with Weston and Samson. I'd like to acknowledge Robin Sidell. She's done extreme work for us and planning department's own Cassinia Aquaviva and Riley Moran have been
instrumental in getting this forward. So with that, I'm requesting authorization to advertise and issue this construction IFB for the interim deployables project on city of Boston property in Charlestown at Main Street and at Martins Park in South Boston. The bid package has been prepared by Weston and
Samson in compliance with MGL chapter 3039M. We will of course award the contracts to the lowest bidder after bringing it back to the board for approval. We are currently estimating these two projects at a total of $1 million. Uh that would be funded from the city's coastal resilience reserve.
That's an estimate. We're hoping that we can actually be more competitive uh on that, but we won't know the final price obviously until that comes in. Uh and I look to return to you next month with a recommendation for award. So, we're happy to answer any questions you may have. >> Thank you, William. Thank you, Chris.
Thank you very much. Are there any questions or comments from the board? >> Uh a brief comment first of all. Always great to see my friend Chris Osgood who uh is the right person to be leading these efforts that are so important. It was 13 years ago this month that Superstorm Sandy hit New Jersey. Uh had
it occurred five or six hours earlier or later, you would have seen neighborhoods absolutely decimated in the city of Austin. So from my mind, a million dollars is is a great start, but it should just be a start. I think that we need to be serious about spending a lot on this, and I know Chris, you are and your team, and it's a great
collaboration. So glad to see it happen and look forward to see it uh come to fruition. >> Are there any other questions or comments from the board? >> It's a very thorough piece of work. >> Thank you, sir. >> Congratulations. >> Thank you very much. >> I would definitely agree with that.
Thank you to both of you and your teams. Thank you very much with that. Uh these two items will be voted on separately. So I will reread item number 10 and item number 11. And each one we will vote on. Uh item number
10 first request authorization to is issue an invitation for bids for the constructions of the main street interim deployable in Charles Town. >> Is there mo excuse me a motion in order? >> Some move. >> Second.
>> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Our next one will be agenda item number 11. request authorization to issue the invitation for bids for the construction of the Martins Park interm deployable in
Boston. >> Motion's in order. >> Second. >> There's a second. All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. >> Thank you. >> Thank you all for your work. >> And will you get to stay up there? Item number item number 12, request
authorization to one, enter to a cooperative agreement of a grant agreement with the US Environmental Protection Agency for a $4 million Brownsfield cleanup cooperative agreement. And number two, issue a
request for qualification for qualified engineers to design and offer environmental remediation of the chain forge property building 105 at the Charlestown Naval Yard Navyyard. Secure future adaptive
reuse for a public construction bid. William. >> All right. Good afternoon again. I usually ask for money. Today I actually come giving you money. Uh we're requesting authorization to accept and expend a $4 million award uh from the EPA through their brownfields program
for building 105 in the Charlestown Navyyard known as the Chain Forge building. Uh this property was last before you May of this year when you granted authorization to execute an engineering contract with Wesson and Samson to preserve and stabilize the building. As a brief reminder, it's a
60,000 square foot property built in 1904 by the US Navy. This is the site of the production of nearly all US Navy chain that was produced for the military through World War II and actually the site where they came up with a new
method of creating the chain which allowed them to greatly uh increase the efficiency of doing so. However, creating chain uh in an urban building such as this comes with its impact. In this case, mostly environmental. Uh the property has contaminated building
materials, soil, groundwater. Namely, we're dealing with PCBs, but we also have PAHs, uh many heavy metals, lots of asbestous, and some dioxins. The property had previously had a partial cleanup by the US Army Corps of
Engineers. uh it was previously a designated property. They also did some cleanup. However, those two efforts still rendered the site significantly burdened for redevelopment given the extensive environmental remediation that remains. Uh so the real estate staff
earlier this year submitted an application to the EPA through the brownfields program uh making the case for them to invest $4 million in this site to not only clean it up but to further help uh rel relieve the burden just a bit for any future redevelopment.
So we're very happy to have uh this $4 million uh from the federal government. Very appreciative indeed. uh 9:15 of this year, September 15th, we were awarded officially that $4 million. It supplements our own uh current budget of $4 million to do additional
stabilization and cleanup work. So, this brings a total investment uh by the agency and the EPA to $8 million. I'm requesting authorization to issue a request for qualifications to get a licensed LSP on board so that we can start to permit and design the work that
the EPA is funding this $4 million for. So, two matters. Please requesting authorization to accept and expend and requesting authorization to issue the request for qualifications and happy to answer any questions you may have. >> Thank you. Are there any questions or comments from the board? would cash that
EPA check as soon as you can >> and spend that money and get the reimbursement as quickly as possible. Kate, you got it. >> Are there any question? Any other questions or comments? Seeing hearing none, there's a motion in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I.
>> Any opposed? Eyes have it. Thanks again. >> Much appreciated. Good evening. Item number 13, request authorization to execute a tri a contract with CRP strategies for a citywide needs assessment study for a total contract
amount not to exceed $800,000 and a contract term of up to 12 months. Caitlyn, >> hi. Good evening, Mr. Chair, members of the board, Secretary Bohemis, and Director Shen. Um, for the record, I'm Arian Thompson. I'm a planner on the
zoning reform team as of this past July. Um, so thank you for welcoming me as this is my first appearance in front of the board. So the BPDA board previously authorized the planning department to advertise and enter into a contract for a citywide land use needs assessment with an initial focus on future land use
and scenario planning. While that focus remains important, um, it became clear that a broader understanding of neighborhood needs as well as a citywide capital and mitigation priorities is needed. To address this, the RFP was issued with an updated scope reflecting a more comprehensive community- centered
approach. The goal of the citywide needs assessment is to create a decision-making framework that addresses the unique needs of each Boston neighborhood. This framework will guide future development, planning efforts, and capital improvements, providing datadriven insights to support sustainable growth and equitable access
to city services. The updated RFP was released on September 2nd, 2025, with responses due on September 26th. Four proposals were received from Interface Studios, H&R, HRNA, Karp Strategies, and R&D Consultants. Each proposal was
evaluated based on team qualifications, project manager experience, proposed approach, interview performance, and allocation of resources. Following a thorough review, interviews, and reference checks, the review committee determined that KARP Strategies is best positioned to deliver the citywide needs
assessment. Carb Strategies was deemed a highly advantageous candidate for demonstrating strong qualifications, a clear methodology, and an ability to work um with both subcontractors and our internal staff. The review committee therefore recommends awarding the contract to CARAP strategies to ensure that the citywide needs assessment is
completed efficiently, providing a robust data-driven framework to guide Boston's future planning and development priorities. And I'm happy to answer any questions you may have. >> Thank you very much. and it's first and first. So, we have something in common.
>> You're doing a great job. >> Did a great job. >> Thank you. >> Uh, does the board have any questions or comments? >> Seeing and hearing none. A motion's in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it.
>> Thank you again. Item number 14, request authorization to adopt a pilot of the direct displacement disclosure to be integrated as part of a new project filing for the small projects filed under article 80E of the
zoning code in the large projects filed under article 80B of the zoning code for a period of 12 months with the option to extend for an additional 12 months. Catherine, >> pleasure to be for you uh to be here before you all. My name is Katherryn Lusk. I serve as executive director of
the planning advisory council and I'm here to present the article 80 direct displacement disclosure pilot proposal to you on behalf of a large team of in multiple departments uh who put this proposal forward. Next, as the board recalls, uh over the last year and a half, a cross-d departmental
team had worked to advance the city's first anti-displacement action plan. It was adopted by the board in July of 2025. It included a commitment to create a new direct displacement disclosure to help mitigate residential, small business, and cultural displacement that may be associated with new development,
creating more predictability for all parties. Next, over the last six months, and indeed longer, many of us have been working um and conducting extensive stakeholder engagement to understand the priorities of all of the constituencies involved in
the disclosure. Uh we heard very loud and clear from the development community a excuse me my eyes aren't that good. Uh a a uh an understanding that supporting good tenants is really good business. They ask that the disclosure process be standardized and integrated into
existing article 80 processes that it not lengthen the article 80 process. That we take all steps to avoid duplication of work including consideration for federal um uh obligations under the uniform relocation act. that we uh note actions should be included as part of overall mitigation
and that we really be thoughtful to target this disclosure to high priority tenants particularly vulnerable residents and the smaller operators that are priorities for community. We heard from community including residents arts and small business stakeholders a strong desire for the city to implement the
disclosure before additional reasonzoning is passed. Um they asked for a process that respects lives and livelihoods of the tenants that are impacted by projects. That would prioritize our most vulnerable residential tenants. That would particularly prioritize anchor tenants including those small businesses,
cultural and civic venues that have high community value. And they have a preference wherever possible for an option to return to provide the most stability for tenants um and neighborhoods. Next, please. As part of the review, we also look back
on past projects to draw on our own best practices where we have examples of um model scenarios where we have provided adequate support to tenants throughout the development process. In optimal cases, tenants were aware of the proposed project and could plan their lives accordingly. The city was aware of
existing tenencies and relevant staff in the right department were able to offer help to tenants as needed. The proponents in appropriate instances took reasonable steps to support relocation of impacted tenants. The proponents in very select high community priority instances took an opportunity for a prior tenant to return to the new
premises if they chose and proactive communication created predictability for all parties and a smoother review process. Next, with these lessons in mind, the planning department, mayor's office of housing, mayors of office of arts and culture, office of economic opportunity and
inclusion are proposing a new direct displacement disclosure integrated into article 80 review for small and large project filings. We're proposing it be rolled out on a 12-month pilot period with a possibility to extend for 24 months beginning January 1st, 2026. We are proposing tenants, I'm sorry,
proponents would notify tenants of the proposed project 30 days in advance of filing, disclose any potential direct displacement of residential, commercial, or cultural tenants to us, and in select instances commit to displacement mitigation for a targeted population of tenants as part of the review process prior to board approval. We're proposing
that the city would work with proponents to support tenants or recommend mitigation support for priority populations and tenencies, consider any direct displacement mitigation alongside other project asks, avoid duplication. So, we're also taking steps to streamline the affirmatively furthering zoning uh self- assessment and credit
any displacement mitigation as part of overall community overall mitigation community benefits which is already existing practice. I wanted to provide a quick note uh next slide on the guidelines that have been developed um both with our colleagues in other departments as well as with
community input. This was something that we asked u certainly from proponents but others from community um to try to reflect back to project proponents the kinds of things we've heard about what might constitute a priority tenency um where the community would have an expectation of support and the city
therefore might also have an expectation of support. Next slide. Um so in the interest of transparency uh we wanted to provide um an understanding of priority populations of uses and some recommended support in terms of relocation and option to return for
different populations. On the residential side we are recommending uh priority population would be those special populations who are elders 62 plus in age, tenants with disabilities and households with below 80% AMI who do not voluntarily choose to relocate. We are recommending that they receive
$15,000 per household. Uh a 12-month notice to vacate search support for a new home and or preference for new units if they are income eligible, which would give them an option to return to the new development. As with regard to small business, civic and cultural tenencies. Um there's three categories that were
considered high priority uses. The first is legacy small businesses or those folks that have been in operation for 10 or more years and are considered high community value. Here we're making a recommendation of relocation support uh which could include search support or financial support to relocate to new premises and and a feasible option to
return if both parties are interested and that might include to tenant improvement allowance or reasonable rent terms at the new building. Uh the second category are those enterprises that serve a priority community need. These could be a grocery store, a pharmacy, a learned mat child care child care
provider or community serving nonprofit. And here we're recommending that these folks be provided with a feasible option to return. And we note publicly that the city and the community will likely be advocating strongly for a replacement of use in these cases. And lastly, the
third category are um organizations that are community venue more that have been around for five or more years that have high community value. We're suggesting relocation support as well as again a feasible option to return. And on the next slide, we have also been
asked to be transparent and again doing this with community input um about instances where we do not anticipate that we or the community would be asking for propon proponents to provide mitigation support. So in the case of residential tenants, those would be instances where tenants uh who as of the date of notice have been given the
option to renew their lease at a similar rent and declined. tenants who are three plus months in a rears on their rent who have not entered into a reasonable payment plan and tenants who have received a fault eviction judgment in housing court. With regard to what we call commercial and cultural tenants, um we would not be suggesting mitigation
support if they are a national chain or franchise, if they are more than three plus months in a rears on their rent, if the uh business organization or proprietor is not in good standing with the city of Boston. That can be multiple things. That's up to us to verify and make the proponent aware. um if they
have past labor violations or credible evidence of unfair labor practices, if they no longer wish to operate in Boston, if they anticipate closing or had planned to close, and if they are um fall in the category of a liquor store, check, cashing, payday lender, retail bank, or professional services or lab space
and next slide. And I want to say just a quick word um on the steps and templates again in the interest of templatizing the disclosure process. Next slide. There's really two core components, a tenant notification form and a direct displacement
disclosure. Next slide. The tenant notification form would be a city template available in 12 languages. There's two versions, one for residential tenants and one for commercial and cultural tenants. Each of those includes a notice to the tenant on the development project itself where they can go to get additional
information. It directs them to available tenant resources um ensuring that they provide that they are aware of the folks within city hall who can help them. Um it lays out a process description um of the development review process and where they are in that process. And for landlords who want to
um gather additional information to understand special populations. It also includes an addendum for information gathering purposes. Next slide. >> Excuse me. Uh and we are as I mentioned proposing that the we are asking that developers mail the tenant notification
form to their tenants at least 30 days before project filing. Next slide. The second component is the direct displacement disclosure which would be filled out and submitted as part of the project filing at PNF or SP. Um this includes applicability. So of course in
the interest of streamlining process the very first section of that form says does this apply to you? And we are very clear that there's a number of instances where there would be exemption from the disclosure process. So for example, if there are no tenants on site, you fulfilled your responsibility. If the uniform relocation act or the mass relocation act applies to your
instances, make us aware of that. You fulfilled your obligation. If the existing tenant is the developer, right? If the small business on site is in fact the one developing, you've fulfilled your obligation. It is your own project that you are moving forward. All of those folks would be exempt. Um we would also then where there are tenants and
there's not an exemption be asking for additional information on the tenants themselves and their tenencies and then um providing space to understand any proposed mitigation actions or any discussions that the proponent has had with their tenants and actions they are prepared to take at that point in time or are aware of that they're prepared to
take at that point point in time to support relocation or option to return. Next slide. Um, as I mentioned, we would be asking, we are asking developers to fill out the disclosure and submit it as part of their project filing. It is incumbent upon us then to review it. IG members and community would have an opportunity
to review it as part of the project filing as well. And if needed, the city would provide written feedback as part of the consolidated feedback memo in the totality of the project. Last slide. And if displacement mitigation is proposed and accepted, it would be documented in the board memo and credit
as part of the mitigation community benefits. and the final terms would ultimately be included in the cooperation agreement. Next is actually the final slide, forgive me. Um, the disclosure, we are proposing that it would go into effect on January 1st, 2026. And between now and then, the city will post the tenant notification form
templates in 12 languages, post the direct displacement disclosure and integrate it into the developer portal, post the priority population and tenencies guidance publicly, modify the affirmatively furthering fair housing zoned self- assessment form to eliminate any duplicate questions. And finally, conduct staff training for design in
multiple departments, and establish internal staff processes for implementation and administration. I'm happy to take any questions and thank you so much. >> Thank you, Katherine. Are there any questions or comments from the board? >> Uh, I have I have one. Thank you, Katherine. Obviously, this is great. I
support it. Look forward to seeing it implemented. Uh, there was one term though that I'm sure maybe uh raised some uh eyebrows or or or I guess I'm looking for some more information. We talked about uh potential exemptions. So, if a tenant was three months in a
rear with rent or whatever, it said if a similar lease was offered at similar rent, what does similar rent mean? Is there a percentage? Certainly. >> Sorry. Say say that one more time. >> There was a slide that talked about um sort of exemptions or when when uh this wouldn't be applied and if if a tenant
were was in a rears and paying their t their rent for example. Sorry. >> And then this also said that if the landlord offered a new lease at a similar rent. >> Um I would defer to my I don't think Andy is here. Andy's here. I would defer
to my mayor's office of housing colleagues if there's an official definition of similar rent or if that is eye of the beholder. >> Yeah, precisely because is there a window that similar rent would and I assume it's a percentage. >> Sure. Thanks, member. Hi, Andy Feldman,
a housing policy manager with Mayor's Office of Housing. I believe that when we had our legal policy team look into this, the standard that we found was usually no more than a change of around 10%. So having some sort of objective measure like that to to be able to different that.
>> Great. Thank you. >> Thank you Andy. >> This is great. Thank you so much. Um it's great to see it moving forward. I'm just curious. Are we ahead of the curve in terms of other cities? Did you find other cities doing this or like if you
happen to know just uh we did I didn't share that. We we did also look at um whether there's comparable policies in other cities. I would say we haven't found anything comparable that is thinking as holistically about both residential and commercial and cultural displacement. You know from when we came
here to talk about the anti-displacement plan from the very beginning of that process that was a priority for our residents to really be thinking about both how do we anchor residents and how do we anchor the things that serve their needs and trying to do those both together. And so as far as I know um we've not found another example of a city that's thinking about both you know
tenants both residential and commercial to cultural tenants and thinking about stabilization measures um to both for both. We have seen some um other cities that have comparable examples of relocation terms and relocation support that's provided uh that they're asking
proponents to provide um in when new developments happen. >> Thanks. Great. And if the board is curious, happy to share any of that background research as well at any point. >> Um, Katherine, I would ask, uh, looking back a little bit and then looking a
little forward, would you say, uh, the developments that have happened, has there been a lot of resident displacement, you know, in in that window you can think of? We did do a review of past development projects certainly in recent years and
we see this in a minority a very small minority of cases where we do see direct displacement associated with projects. So it is rare uh in relative to the entire portfolio of development projects that come through. But what we've lacked is a consistent way of documenting it
and then setting the city up to be a good partner and then ensuring that the community and the proponent and the tenants themselves are all well informed in those cases so that we can move together um as you heard from councelor Pepin and others so that we can move together um in partnership and make sure that those tenants are adequately supported.
>> Thank you. >> Any other questions or comments? Seeing and hearing none, a motion's in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? I. >> Any oppose? eyes have it. Thank you. Item number 15,
request authorization to grant permission to the director to sign a municipal planning board notification form on behalf of the Boston Redevelopment Authority Board, signifying that they have been notified
of the intention of one, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation in Mass DOT to file a chapter 91 license application. ation for Mystic River Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge and two, the Massachusetts
Department of Conservation and Recreation to file a chapter 91 license application for a public dock at Herder Park with the Department of Environmental Protection. Elaine. >> Uh, good evening, Vice Chair, Secretary
>> Elena. Excuse me. >> No worries. >> No, sorry. >> Um, good evening, Vice Chair, Secretary Pimez, members of the board, and Director Shen. My name is Elana HS and I am presenting to inform you of two projects seeking a chapter 91 license pursuant to the public waterways act. Part of said licensing process involves
notifying the municipal planning board or local equivalent of a project's application for a license. The first of these projects is the is a new pedestrian bridge and bicycle bridge across the Mystic River connecting the cities of Somerville and Everett between Draw 7 Park and the Northern Strand
Community Trail. The project aligns with the planning goals of the Everett Central Waterfront Municipal Harbor Plan. While this project is not subject to the jurisdiction of the city of Boston per 310 CMR 911, a certification that a copy of the license application
has been submitted to the planning board of each city or town where the work is to be performed except in the case of a proposed bridge, dam or similar structure across a river, cove, or inlet in which case notice shall be given to the planning board of every municipality into which the tide water of said river,
cove, or inlet extends. Um the proponents DCR and MASDOT are seeking a license for a water dependent infrastructure use and are expected to meet all stipulations set forth for a water dependent um by the code for the for water dependent infrastructure use
set forth by the code of Massachusetts regulations for such projects on flowed tidelands and in the public right of way. Uh next slide please. Great. Uh the second of these applications is a filing for a chapter 91 license for a new public dock at
Herder Park in Alustin. Uh this project will fulfill the mitigation requirements set forth by the chapter 91 license issued for the president and fellows of Harvard College for the weld and new rule boatouses and complies with the herder park master plan. The proponent DCR is seeking a license for a water
dependent public service use and is expected to meet all stipulations set forth by the code of Massachusetts regulations for such projects on filled and flowed tidelands. Uh thank you and I'm happy to take any questions. >> Thank you for the board. Are there any
questions or any comments? >> Seeing hearing none, there is a motion in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Any oppose? eyes have it. Thank you. Item number 16, request authorization to
issue a certificate of completion for the successful completion of 55 Summer Street in the downtown neighborhood in accordance with section C4 of the cooperation agreement by and between the Boston Redevelopment
Authority, DBA, Boston Planning and Development Agency, and BP3-B. B O S55 Summer and excuse me. Yep. B 5555 Summer
Street LLC dated September 13, 2023. >> I'm going direct to a motion. Uh >> so moved. >> Second. >> Second. All in favor? >> I oppose. Eyes have it. Thank you, Mr. Chair. >> I'm going to excuse for this one.
Item number 17, request authorization to issue a certificate of completion for the successful completion of construction of building M located within the Bunker Hill housing redevelopment in Charlestown neighborhood in accordance with section C4 of the cooperating cooperation
agreement by the by and between the Boston Redevelopment Authority, DVA, Boston Planning and Development Agency, and Bunker Hill Land Co. LLC for proponent dated October 7th, 2022.
A motion is in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? Eyes have it. >> One grab cake. Thank you. Item number 18, request authorization to
issue a certificate of completion for the successful completion of 69 to 71 Proctor Street, Roxbury Preparatory Charter School in the Roxbury neighborhood in accordance with section C4 of the cooperation agreement by and
between the Boston Redevelopment Authority, DVA, Boston Planning and Development Agency and Uncommon Schools, Inc. Roxbury Prep Preparatory Charter School dated April 7th, 2023. A motion is in order.
>> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? Eyes have it. Thank you. Item number 19,formational update on article 80 modernization engagement improvements.
Christina. >> Um, good afternoon, Mr. Chair, members of the board, Madam Secretary, and Director Shen. My name is Cristiana Lusa and I'm the deputy director of community engagement for the planning department and I'm here to provide here today to provide anformational update on the article 80 modernization project. There
is no need vote for this needed no vote needed for this item. Next slide. So, as you know, over the last two and a half years, the planning department has been engaged in research, engagement, and analysis as part of the article 80 modernization project to study, evaluate, and recommend improvements to
the development review process and article 80 of the Boston Zoning Code. Throughout this time, we did a lot of listening, learning, and receive feedback on our proposals to make improvements to how our article 80 development review process looks and works. This led to our action plan which
was finalized in April of 2025 and our early action supplement which was presented to this board in April 2025 and identified recommendations with strong support from development industry and community stakeholders which we've begun to implement. Next slide, please.
The update I'm presenting today covers three of these early actions that focus on ways to improve our engagement practices. Specifically, these include supporting development teams to lead engagement efforts before filing their projects, expanding our engagement, and supporting improvements for advisory
groups. Next slide, please. Throughout the project, we have heard a lot from community members that has really helped influence um some of the changes we're going to talk about today, including that 77% of our survey respondents told us they want more ways
to learn about and get involved. While only 30% of respondents find that the planning department spreads the word about our comment periods and about key project milestones like receiving a filing that there is a need for improve improved clarity as only 27% of survey
respondents understand how their input is used and 46% of survey respondents told us that their top priority for article 80 modernization is improving our advisory groups. From all this feedback, we've heard the clear need to make improvements, and that is what we're rolling out first. Next slide,
please. So, all of the improvements that we'll show focus on these three categories of change. Improving our existing engagement methods to make them more inclusive and welcoming. Expanding our engagement options to make it easier for folks to learn about and share their
feedback about projects, and supporting advisory group members by creating more transparency and clarifying expectations. Next slide, please. While there are lots of ways to move forward those approaches, we're starting with the following exciting updates. So,
one is our early engagement toolkit, uh, improving our advisory group meetings, project site signage, and modernized public meetings. And over the next few slides, I'll go into more details about each of these. On to the next slide. So, one of the first things we're
offering is new resources and best practices so that whether a developer has been working in Boston for years or is beginning their first project, the planning department is helping them put their best foot forward with the community. This includes guides to lead sitewalks, table at community events,
survey, or host workshops before filing the project with the planning department. Next slide, please. We've heard from community members and developers alike that good early engagement leads to better projects and a smoother review. While the use of these tools is optional, we encourage
project proponents to utilize them for their upcoming projects. On to the next slide. We are also releasing resources to support advisory groups becoming more transparent and for members to be trained and have clear expectations of their commitment. These new training
materials, forms to disclose interests, and meeting expectations will help encourage productive dialogue during these meetings. On to the next slide. We are also expanding how people learn about projects in their neighborhood by launching new site signage. These are
yard signs that are placed at the development site in the most used languages in the neighborhood that share key information about the project and direct people to the planning department's website to learn more and share their comments. On to the next slide.
And lastly, we're also improving our public meeting experiences by having more visual and engaging slides, increasing staff capacity and supporting more active facilitation of meetings, collecting demographic information, regularly closing feedback loops, and
creating the opportunity for continuous improvement. So, in the coming days, the planning department will release these new toolkits and resources that I mentioned, and staff will start taking new steps to support improved engagement efforts as part of the article lady development review process. And the new advisory
group forms will be requested from appointed members starting after January 1st, 2026. This work is iterative and will continue to partner with community members, development stakeholders, and city staff to evaluate, further refine, and prepare for the continued future improvements.
That concludes my presentation, and I'm happy to answer any questions you may have. Thank you, >> Christina. Thank you. Thank you for that report. Uh board members, are there any questions or comments? >> Great. >> Definitely. >> Thank you.
>> Thank you very much. >> Absolutely. >> Uh is there a motion in order? So move. >> Excuse me. There's no vote. >> No vote. Yes. Yes, sir. >> There is no vote. Thank you very much. >> Item number 20, request authorization to one, issue a certification of approval
pursuant to article 80, small project review of the zoning code for the proposed construction of 36 residential units, including six inclusionary zoning units, 20 car parking spaces, and 50 bicycle parking spaces. located at 80
Gardener Street and to enter into a community benefit agreement and to take all related actions. So, >> thank you and good afternoon, Mr. Chair, members of the board, Secretary Pis, and Director Shen. My name is Zoe Dval. I'm a project manager in the development
review division of the planning department, and we are here before you to discuss the proposed article 80, small project located at 80 Gardener Street in Alustin. Um, the proposed project is an infill development consisting of a new six-story building being added to the
service lot of a site with an existing 28 unit multif family apartment building. The new building would contain approximately 40,000 gross square feet consisting of 36 residential rental units, 18 new garage parking spaces, and 38 long-term bike parking spaces. Eight
of the existing service lot parking spaces will remain. The proponent filed a small project review application on June 27th, 2025. The planning department hosted a virtual public meeting which was held on July 23rd which was advertised in the local newspapers and
posted on the planning department website with notification emails sent to all subscribers of the Austin Brighton neighborhood update list. The public comment period for this project ended on July 28th and I will now hand it over to my colleague Alana to present the plan in context before the development team
begins their presentation. Thank you. >> Thanks, Zoe. Um, good evening, uh, Vice Chair, Secretary Pyz, members of the board, and Director Shen. Um, my name is Elana Hs, and I am covering for Michelle Yei, who is the planning review team planner assigned to this project. Uh,
next slide, please. The proposed project at 80 Gardener Street is located in the Austin Brighton neighborhood zoning district within a 3F4000 subd district. This area is primarily residential until Gardener Street reaches the Boston University
campus where it transitions to a more institutional and commercial use. This lot currently contains a four-story multif family residential building and a surface parking lot. The proposed project also falls within the boundaries of the Austin Brighton needs assessment which was approved and adopted by the
BPDA board in January 2024. As this project is proposing a transitoriented mixeduse building with six units of incomerestricted housing, this is consistent with the need for accessible and affordable housing found in the needs assessment. Additionally, other plans that were considered include the
ongoing Beacon Park yard regional framework plan and the Austin Brighton community plan as these plans will guide the growth in the neighborhood and the area surrounding the proposed project. Next slide, please. Within this figure, the proposed project
is compared uh to what is allowed under current zoning. The pink highlights the maximum height and setbacks. And as you can see, while the proposed project could build out to the area shown in pink, zoning relief is recommended because the proposed height and density better reflect the existing built
environment of Gardener Street, which is predominantly multif family residential. Additionally, the project will also bring several public realm improvements, including improving the sidewalk and streetscape on Gardener Street and the removal of an existing curb cut. Uh, thank you, and I will turn it over to
the development team to present the project in more detail. >> Good afternoon, members of the board. My name is Dennis Greenwood with Souza Design Architects. Uh, and I'm going to walk you through a kind of brief overview of the proposed project. So on this slide here, you can see an aerial
view of 80 Gardenner Street, our site. Um on the left side of the highlighted area, you can see that existing four-story apartment building that contains 28 existing apartment units. On the right side of that highlighted area, you can see what is currently surface parking as well as a couple um uh
singlestory garage stall units as well. So, the proposed project we're excited about because it's an infill development of a currently underutilized surface parking area with zero displacement of existing um tenants. Next slide, please.
So, here's a photo um street view along Gardener Street. Again, on the left, you can see the four-story existing apartment building. Uh on the right you can start to see and you'll see uh a little better in upcoming slides as well. You can see that surface level parking area uh where there's currently
uh 20 surface level parking spaces and you can start to see that singlestory garage structure that's on that site as well. Next slide please. And here we're a little bit further east on Gardener Street looking back towards the existing building. Um again on that left side you can see there's an
existing curb cut into that surface level parking area. on the right you can see a more uplose view of that. So that's the area which you'll see in the following slide is where we're proposing this new infill development. So again there's 28 units in the existing building on the left there that you can
see now and then we're proposing 36 new dwelling units in the new structure that will all be connected uh below grade via parking structure. Next slide. So in developing the project, we worked with the development team and obviously in speaking with the neighbors and
members of the planning board, um we were looking at site context for a number of reasons. One is obviously scale. So there's there's a number of units highlighted here, number of um buildings in the neighborhood that are between five and seven stories tall as well as some others that are, you know,
between seven and and 12. Um so we're looking at scale and appropriateness for the neighborhood. And we thought that, you know, being one block off of uh Bright Nav, uh the six stories proposed was in keeping with kind of the the new uh scale that kind of that higher
quarter that's being developed now. Next slide. And so here we have a side by side of the existing and proposed site plans. So on the left is the existing site plan. You can see that again we have the existing fourstory uh structure outlined
um kind of starting at the midpoint of the parcel and then over to the left. There is currently a ramp access down. So the site slopes about eight or nine feet from Gardener Street from the front down to the rear of the site. Um where you can see currently there's five
parking spaces at the back of the building. There's also access to a parking garage on the lower level. Um that would be at the rear of the building. We're going to maintain that access and then we're going to have access uh to parking in our lower level
via that existing building. So, we're going to keep everything kind of from the existing building um to the left that ramp down and then we're going to modify those rear five parking spaces to be usable open space. And then on the right, all that surface level parking
space is going to uh get excavated. We're going to put in a new 36 unit building and then connect um the lower level the parking areas uh between the two structures. So on the right you can see where we have our proposed 36 unit
building. Um what we're doing it for site improvements which you'll see in the upcoming landscape plans a little more clearly as we're going to close off the the existing curb cut along Gardener Street that accesses that existing surface parking area. We're going to create usable open space along that
front area. We're going to create usable open space and passive seating and recreation space between the two structures as well as create new usable open space at the rear of the lot. Next slide, please. So again, so here's the, you know, one
slide of the the landscaping which we've worked kind of uh to continue improving uh with the planning department as well as based upon neighborhood feedback. What we're proposing is again we're going to close off the curb cut along Gardener Street that exists now. We're going to maintain the one existing curb
cut on the left of the the plan here. So that's the west side of the site that would go to that access ramp down to the parking via the rear of the building. But along that front area where we're closing off the curb cut in front of the new structure, we're going to introduce
new visitor bike parking areas, another shade tree. Um, and then we're going to improve the streetscape as well by introducing new landscaping, some bench seating areas, again, some kind of passive uh seating areas in between the two buildings, and then different kind of zones of of seating as well as some
private uh terraces and rear balconies on the site. Next slide. And so here you can see how we're complying to the uh the Boston Complete Streets requirements. We are introducing um you know the the the tree planting/f
furniture zone along the front of the building where um uh adjacent to the street rather where we would have some new oen ring bike parking spaces as well as that new shade tree along uh gardener street and then of course the continuation of the 5-ft concrete
sidewalk and then our front lawn and planting area. Next slide. And so here's a the east elevation. Um, and we'll kind of end we'll end with the rendering which will kind of show the building a little bit more clearly. But our approach here was we had uh kind of
a strong presence of the five-story building along the front along Gardener Street. We wanted that to be a masonry building kind of tying into the local context of the neighborhood. So we have the kind of the the red brick which is very typical of the neighborhood. And
then as we go further back from the site, we want to step back to the sixth floor to kind of diminish that height, reduce the the massing along Gardener Street and reduce kind of that sight line and then give a stronger presence to and materiality to that front portion
of the building which is, you know, uh kind of a contemporary interpretation of the the brick apartment building. And in the rear, you can see we do have those balconies and we have some terraces off the rear of the building to provide some uh outdoor amenity space
for for the private unit usage. Um, and we are again at six stories high. So, next slide, please. And so, here's the rear of the building for context. So, I'm going to start kind of on the right and work to the left. On the right, you can see the ramp down.
That's existing around that existing building terrain. And you can see the the garage entry there. So entering into that garage would be the vehicular access which connects both the existing structure and the proposed structure that we're putting on the site. And again on the left here you can see uh
those rear balconies that we're looking to to incorporate as well. Next slide, please. Okay. And I think this kind of captures the essence of the design a little bit better. So here's a a 3D view along Gardener Street. So again, what we're looking at is that uh contemporary
expression of the the apartment building where we're utilizing masonry, a full white brick um along those front uh the front portion of the building goes back about 25 ft. Um you know, we're creating strong base with a with a darker brick color on that first floor. We're
utilizing a soldier course um between the the first and second floor to add some detailing as well as as a lintal piece over the windows. We have a datim between the fourth and fifth floor to again introduce a little bit of detail and kind of tie into the scale of the adjacent buildings and then a stronger
corner line of coral corners at that fifth floor uh to demarcate kind of the step back uh to that sixth floor where we transition to a uh a rain screen system a good look rainreen system. We're also, you know, we utilized a couple elements here, but the large
corner windows to help um again temporary extraction and it helps kind of erode those corners and reduce the scale after building. And then we worked with again with planning department on some different pieces uh modified the streetscape. We introduced the canopy at
the entrance to kind of mark that piece um and further develop the landscaping between the two buildings. And with that, I would open it up to any questions that the board may have. >> Thank you. Thank you for that presentation. Are there any questions or comments from
the board? >> Seeing and hearing none. A motion is in order. >> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? Eyes have it. Thank you. >> Thank you. Item number 21, request authorization to
one issue a director's determination pursuant to article 8A-6.1 of the zoning code for the 290 Trimmont Street, excuse me, 290 Trimmont Street project located at parcel P-12C and the South Cove urban renewal area.
project number mass R-92 in connection with the notice of project change filed by Asian Community Development Corporation and two issue a certification of compliance for the proposed project pursuant to article 80B
of the code upon successful completion of large project review and take all actions required. Dan. >> Good evening, Mr. Chair, members of the board, Director Shen, Secretary Bohemis, my name is Daniel Palano and I'm the project manager for the notice of
project change before you tonight in regards to 290 Tremmont Street parcel P12C project located in the Chinatown neighborhood. The 290 Tremont Street project was originally approved by this board on March 14th, 2024 as a 12-story
132 unit building. At the time, the units were intended to be 96 affordable rentals and 36 affordable condominium units. In May of 2025, the Asian Community Development Corporation filed a notice of project change due to the
limited uh ability of funding associated with the development of home ownership units through the mass housing comealth builders program. The only state funding source for affordable home ownership development. The Asian CDC now seeks to create a total of 111 units, all in
which will be rental. All the units will remain affordable at between 30% and 80% AMI. The proposed building will also be reduced by 10 stories. The changes associated with the MPC were presented at the public meetings on August 11th,
2025 and October 7th, 2025. Thank you for your time and consideration. The development team is here in attendance tonight and should we have any questions you have. Thank you. Thank you, Dan. Are there any questions or comments from the board? >> Seeing and hearing none.
>> So move in order. So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. Thank you. Item number 22, request authorization to enter into an affordable housing agreement for the proposed creation of
two IDP home ownership units located at 43 through 45 Stanton Street and to take all related actions. Andy. >> Uh, thank you, uh, Mr. Vice Chair, Secretary Pimeis, and members of the board. I'm Andy Feldman, housing policy
manager with the mayor's office of housing. Tonight, I'm here to request your vote on an affordable housing agreement for the proposed development at 43 to 45 Stanton Street in Dorchester. This development proposes to build 14 condos and while it didn't trigger Article 80 due to its size, I
did trigger the inclusionary development policy. Therefore, the vote in front of you tonight will allow the agency to enter into a housing agreement to dedicate two units under IDP. Thank you. Happy to answer any questions that you may have. >> Andy, thank you. Thank you very much.
uh to the board. Are there any questions or comments? >> Seeing and hearing none, a motion's in order. >> So moved. Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? I have it. >> All right. Next, we're going to take a
brief recess to get everything ready for our public meeting. So, give us a quick five minutes and we'll be back. Thank you. hearing before the Boston Redevelopment Authority doing business as the Boston Planning Development Agency being held
in performance with ADA-2 and ADC-5.4 4 of the Boston zoning code to consider the proposed master plan for the plan development area number 156
Austin Street Lots redevelopment in Charlestown along with the proposed building B development plan within the planned area. The hearing was duly advertised on October 3rd, 2025 in the
Boston Herald. This is a BPDA hearing when a proposed petition by the agency staff members will first present their case and are subject to questioning by members of the agency thereafter. Anyone who wishes to
testify about the proposed project will be afforded an opportunity. We are taking support and opposition at the same time. If you are planning to testify via Zoom, please take the time now to verify that your computer
microphone is active and click the hand icon on the Zoom control panel. This will signal to staff that you would like to speak when your hand is raised. It will be blue. If you're calling from a me if you're calling into the meeting
and would like to testify, please dial star9 to raise your hand. When I call for all testimony, staff will announce your name and allow you to talk. You must unmute your mic. Your webcam will not be active. If you are planning to
testify in person in the boardroom, please line up behind the podium after the presentation is concluded and we will call upon you. In an effort to accommodate all who would like to speak about the proposal, each person will be
given up to two minutes to comment. BPDA staff will indicate when 30 seconds remain. At that time, please conclude your remarks so that the hearing may continue and others may be heard. Finally, the proponents are allowed a
period of five to 10 minutes to rebuttal if they so desire. Sarah, please begin the presentation. Vice Vice Chairman, before we begin, at the beginning of the meeting, we made a request that anybody who's recording the meeting that they identify themselves. So, given that you
all were not in here, then I'm going to make that request again. And if anybody's recording the meeting, if you could let us know. >> Thank you, Sarah. Floor is yours. >> Great. Thank you. Um, and good evening, Chairman Shepard, uh, members of the board, Director Shen, and Secretary
Polymus. My name is Sarah Peek and I'm a development portfolio manager in the development review department. Uh we are here before you this evening to discuss the proposed plan uh master plan for plan development area number 156, the Austin Street lots redevelopment, the PDA development plan for building B and
the building B project proposed within PDA number 156. The PDA area consists of a 5.1 acre area of land located generally at the southwestern corner of the a of Austin Street and New Rutherford Avenue intersection in the Charlestown neighborhood of Boston. The
proposed development of the master plan area includes four new mixeduse buildings collectively containing up to 790,000 square ft. The master plan proposes up to 705 new dwelling units and residential amenities, arts and
culture space, early childhood education space, indoor recreation space, and structured and surface vehicle vehicle parking spaces, excuse me, uh together with an urban plaza and lawn, athletic and multi-purpose fields, and related site and public realm improvements. The
building B development plan and project proposes the construction of a new up to sevenstory 126,000t building containing 123 allaf affordable residential rental units and residential amenities together with bicycle storage and urban plaza and
lawn and a new connection across the northern site between uh new Rutherford Avenue and the rear service driveway. Uh up to 10 surface vehicle parking spaces and related site and public realm improvements. A PNF was filed for the master plan project on May 21st, 2024, which
initiated a public comment period concluding on July 2nd, 2024. The planning department hosted an IEG meeting on June 10th, 2024, and a public meeting on June 18th in connection with that PNF. The planning department issued a request for supplemental information
on July 24th, 2024 in response to the PNF filing. Draft versions of a plan development area master plan, a plan development area development plan for building B, and a supplemental supplemental filing, excuse me, for building B were filed uh with the
planning department on May 15, 2025. Uh this initiated a public comment period concluding on July 8th, 2025. The planning department hosted IEG meetings on June 2nd and September 22nd and public meetings on June 24th and September 24th. Uh, in connection with
those three filings, the meetings were held virtually on Zoom and advertised in the local newspapers, posted to the planning department's calendar, and email notification was sent to all subscribers of the planning department's Charlestown neighborhood updates. The master plan and building B development plan were considered by the Boston Civic
Design Commission on July 9th, 2024 with design subcommittee meetings on July 23rd, 2024, June 3rd, 2025, June 17, 2025, and July 15, 2025. BCDC approved the master plan and building B at the
September 9th, 2025 meeting. I also want to thank all the impact advisory group members for their work on reviewing this project over the past few years. We do appreciate their taking their time and volunteering to be a part of this review process. And now at this point, I would like to hand it off to my colleague Ford
Delbecio to present the planning context for the project followed by a presentation from the development team. Thank you everyone. >> Thank you for that. Uh good evening, Mr. Vice Chair, Secretary Pimis, members of the board, and director Shen. My name is Ford Delveio, and I'm the planning
review team member covering this project for Michelle Ye, the planner assigned to this project. The proposed master plan totally totaling approximately 5.1 acres is located within the Charlestown neighborhood zoning district within a mixeduse one zoning district where planned development areas are allowed.
Additionally, portions of the site also fall within the coastal flood resilience overlay district. This area is currently used as surface parking lots next to the elevated I93 vioaduct. Next slide, please. The master plan site falls within the boundaries of plan Charlestown, which is
adopted by the BPDA board in September 2023. The plan's land use, height, and density recommendations were then codified by the zoning commission in October 2023. Plan Charlestown was an analysis of neighborhood needs, and included recommendations to improve access to services, new zoning for
existence, existing industrial parts of the neighborhood, and urban design guidelines to govern future development. The Austin Street lots were specifically identified as an opportunity for mixed income housing, publicly accessible open space, space for sports practice, artist support, and broader public realm improvements. The proposal is consistent
with the use and dimensional regulations of of the updated zoning as it proposes to place taller building heights consisting of 150 ft towards the elevated I93 vioaduct and will step down the building heights towards new Rutherford Avenue to meet the resident residential neighborhood edge. Additionally, the four proposed
buildings within the master plan site are all mixeduse buildings with active ground floor uses and publicly accessible open space. These elements alongside the plan streetscape improvements will create a safer, more welcoming pedestrian and cycling experience around the master plan area. Thank you, and I will now turn over to
the development team to present in more detail. Good evening, Director Shen, Secretary Pyus, Chair Shepard, and members of the board. My name is Abby Golden, and I am with Trinity Financial. I am joined by my colleagues Kristoff Stump and Kendra
Hollowell of Icon Architecture, Kristoff Stump from Trinity, James Keith from Trinity, and Jim Keefe, the founder of Trinity, is somewhere hiding in the back. I come here today also as a 17-year
resident of the neighborhood of Charles Town where my husband and I have raised our family. This project is of particular importance to me as for almost two decades I walked by these parking lots and imagined the possibilities of what they could be, how they could help contribute to the
neighborhood. In 2023, the BPDA's RFP allowed us to talk to others and put some of their ideas down on paper. so that we could envision this dream. So, we thank you for issuing that RFP and
having us here tonight. Next slide. This slide actually uh the Austin Street development here highlighted in yellow is at the gateway to Charles Town. The site is adjacent to Community College was which is under the word view on the
top of the screen and is about a half a mile from North Station. To the right of the page, you can see the um Charlestown neighborhood on the upper right hand side. To the bottom of the page, you can see the Paul Rivere Park and North Point parks in the area closest to the
Charles. At the center of the page, you can see a roundabout uh for I93 where Boston Sand and Gravel holds its operations. And to the left of the page, you can see the residential buildings at Cambridge Crossing. Next slide, please. Here is a
pedestrian look at the development site. Three upper views are taken from New Rutherford Avenue, showing their current state as parking lots within with I93 in the background. The view of Middle Road shows its use by passenger cars
accessing the parking lots today. The lower right view shows service road with a readymix truck from Boston Sand and Gravel. In the bottom left view, you will see the Gilmore Bridge in the background in relationship to the development site. Next slide.
There are many edge locations around Charles Town that are industrial and have developed with larger mixeduse developments. These buildings are designed with architectural gestures in brick and metal panel that bridge the historic smaller scale facade features
found throughout Charles Town. Next slide. In putting together this proposal that we'll show you today, we engaged in significant outreach both prior to submitting our RFP response and over the past two years. We've met with
neighbors, stakeholders, and community groups to envision a plan that would allow us to answer one of our own primary questions. What would draw people across Rutherford Avenue? Some of those meetings actually have informed future phases such as our meetings with
the YMCA who is here today. As of August, we have signed a letter of intent with the YMCA to explore a future location on the site. Next slide. Trinity Financial brings 38 years of
experience working in Boston. This experience has told us to be flexible and nimble and to navigate the ups and downs of the economy. It has also told us how to build a strong team. We have have designed professionals on our team that have helped us create new
communities of mixed income housing across all housing types, highrises, midrises, town homes. Together, we have navigated the challenges with these design professionals of building on top of active MBTA tunnels and next to
highways to mitigate vibration, noise, and manage air quality. But for this project in particular, we have brought on two unique members, Tech Environmental and Asentech, who are here today to help navigate this urban site and identify and mitigate any concerns
with air quality and noise. I'm now going to turn it over to Kristoff. >> Thank you, Abby, and good evening, everyone. Um, let's look at the next slide, please. Um on this one um you're seeing the result of an almost two-year long site
planning effort uh that went through many iterations and saw major changes specifically uh as they uh uh regard with um vehicle pedestrian and bicycle circulation which was only uh conceptually envisioned in plan
Charlestown. This master plan proposes to build 705 apartments, 60% of which uh are going to be affordable in four separate buildings with associated outdoor spaces. We call them here generically buildings A, B, C, and
D. Um the development is biseected approximately in the center by a stateowned drive which we call middle road. the building's uses and open spaces complement each other and the non-residential spaces of buildings A
and B to the left um they focus on art and culture. Uh we have a approximately 2,000 square foot gallery space and live work spaces for artists. Um, the two buildings surround an open lawn that is really meant for passive recreation as
well as a plaza which can be used for community events, for uh farmers stands, for food trucks. Um, the parcel to the right uh with buildings uh C and D emphasizes play and sports. So on the uh
left side of in the building C uh we have an early education uh childhood facility uh with approximately 14,000 square ft and uh on the right side in building D a 46,000 square foot uh community rec center that Abby already
mentioned. Um the building surround a larger open field that is uh designed for flexible active uh sports such as uh soccer uh or field hockey. Next slide please.
A major consideration effort uh involved around revolved around providing a safe connection from uh the Miller's River Literal Way. that's to the right of the slide. Um to a uh future green loop that's envisioned in Plan Charles Town
along Service Road uh while at the same time also maintaining commercial track access to uh both the um tracks of the Orange Line as well as to Boston Sand and Gravel's operation. Uh the site plan resolves this challenge by extending Miller's River Literal Way
along New Rutherford Avenue as a shared path and then crossing Middle Road. You see it as a dashed orange line at the top at an existing pedestrian crossing of Middle Road and then continues along New Rutherford Avenue towards Bunker
Hill Community College and uh Community College uh train station uh as well as south to service road uh towards um areas north for Green Loop that the uh Bunker Hill Community College will pick up at some point in the future.
um carefully laid out walkways. Uh you can see those in solid magenta. Uh guide the public into the developments and uh access uh all the aspects of the development uh in an organic uh way uh
and all the parcels are really inward facing. Uh next slide please. vehicle circulation uh needed to take into account MBDA's truck access uh for the maintenance of the orange line tracks as well as Boston Sand and
Gravel's operation uh which has a main access point um between Miller's River Literal Way and the orange line uh end of the tunnel that's at the very bottom right of the slide. Um
after many meetings with um a butters uh local transportation groups um stakeholders the Boston planning and transportation departments and mass do uh this plan emerged uh as the most
viable uh to achieve its goals and was carefully coordinated with um BTD's efforts to redesign New Rutherford Avenue. This site plan took great pains uh to avoid any changes uh to the existing
curb alignments in order to preserve uh truck maneuverability that's required for our abut's needs and to also minimize interaction between those um industrial trucks in the proposed development traffic. The buildings themselves even form a protective
gesture around the public facing spaces by not only orienting all the public access points block inward but also by uh providing a high building spine along I93 which we'll get to in just about a minute. All passenger traffic will be
directed into these drives into uh uh sorry uh will will enter the sites uh through new curb cuts on New Rutherford Avenue. That's the top diagram. So the the red arrows um so they will um access the sites from
there um to get to short-term public parking as well as drop offs and resident garages in building A, C, and D. Um only residents for building A need to use a short uh portion of service
road that is not uh being used by Boston sand and gravel. Uh with this plan, only professional truck drivers uh in our case those are trash haulers and moving trucks uh will even be using middle road and service
road. And uh so there's no mixing of passenger cars and commercial drivers. Uh this master plan allows both a mixeduse development and industrial uses uh which are both really critical to the
community to uh really thrive. side by side. With this, I'm going to hand this over to Kendra Halell from Icon Architecture, who will show you a little more detail on building beyond the first phase. >> Thanks, Kristoff. Can everybody hear me?
>> Great. Thank you. My name is Kendra Hiell. I'm an associate principal at Icon Architecture. I'm really excited to show you what these buildings look like. Um, we've located the active spaces for this building along New Rutherford Avenue.
That's shown here in purple. This includes the lobby, the bike room, and the main building entry is tucked inside the courtyard, essentially pulled away from the busy streets and into this quiet sort of oasis in the center of the site.
This first phase includes 123 units of housing, family housing. It includes the lawn, the plaza area, um, and landscape improvements as well as the public realm improvements around three sides of this parcel.
A distinctive ribbon pathway that you see here, sort of in a a peach color. We'll have special paving, and it's part of the the first piece of this walkway rib ribbon that Kristoff mentioned earlier, the zigzag shown in magenta.
The driveway provides site access for um specifically for the residents and the visitors. Next slide. Thanks. The design and engineering team has been studying the environmental factors here for noise, sound, and air
quality, and we will continue to develop and refine details of the building as we continue through the through the design process. This building will be passive house designed and built with an airtight building envelope. We've
included a central energy recovery uh ventilation system to bring fresh air to each bedroom and living room in every apartment. And in addition to that, we're providing fresh ventilated filtered air to all spaces in the building. This is typic this is a system
that's typically used in hospitals. In addition, we're incorporating acoustic triple glazed windows on the building's exterior um as well as acoustic resilient clip system um around the outside. Let's go
to the next slide. Thank you. The proposed buildings range in scale from six stories up to 13, putting the greater height towards the highway and stepping down in height towards the Charles Town community. All building heights comply with plan
Charlestown. Next slide. We'll walk around the building quickly here. Um the first phase includes u placemaking elements similar to those along the way to line and mark um the edge along New
Rutherford Avenue. You see here the two volumes of the of this building expressed in complimentary masonry tones. Next slide. Uh this is a view at Middle Road. The chamered corners will improve visibility
at the building's outside corners, increasing safety for vehicles turning and for the pedestrian crossings. Masonry detailing uh metal panels and warm accents create durability, lightness, and human scale. Next slide.
The robust quality construction methods and materials are seen here as well as on other projects of the scale around the city. In addition to passive house, the building will also meet lead gold and enterprise green community standards.
Let's go to the next slide. The building's going to be raised well above Boston's 2070 sea level rise base design elevation and native plantings and on-site storm water management systems will promote resilience and
create places to sit and play. We'd like to see Touch a Truck, farmers markets, arts festivals with food trucks, making this a great place to live and to visit. Next slide. To wrap up, uh we are proposing over 700
units of housing, mostly affordable, many jobs to be created, significant community uses added to this neighborhood and building for sustainability and for resiliency. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you for the
presentation. I would like to add this is a public hearing. We are taking public comments. If you would like to testify in person, please step to the podium and announce your name, affiliation, and your position on the proposed project when you're called to
speak. If you are on Zoom and you would like to testify, please raise your virtual hand. >> We'll start with the folks in person and then we'll take a little break and take some of the folks on Zoom. So, go ahead, Miner. >> Thank you. Good evening everybody. Uh,
Chairman Sheper, D uh, board members, director Chen, Madame Secretary, my name is Mina Perez. I am the executive director for the Carpenters Labor Management. I am here representing thousands of union carpenters that live
and work throughout the city of Boston as well as dozens of general contractors and subcontractors that employ my brothers and sisters. It is with great pleasure we go in strong support of this project. Uh first like to thank the BPDA
for hosting this meetings. This was a long and ardous process and kudos to them. They did a great job. Uh finally I want to thank uh Mayor Woo for allowing the community to be part of the process and we're in support of the project. Thank you. >> Good evening. Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you to the board. Director Chen, thank you as well. Thank you to the BPDA for holding this uh in-person meeting hybrid style as well. Also, thank you to the development team. My name is Frank Murray. I'm an IEG on the project. Um
we've gone back to I believe early no summer of 24 I believe was when it was first brought out and there was a great great proposed development. Um things went quiet for a few months and then it got brought back to the table with this
new proposal. Um back in 24 there was four buildings. I I I want to make a point of information that to the people in the on Zoom and and in here as well that the four buildings of the master plan are not being permitted today. It's
just the one building B, excuse me. And at first it was a 12story building. Um, I'm hearing there's issues of financing for the sevenstory now. And just for points of information that the master plan of four buildings, I I I really
have to question if that is going to be able to be done if we're having a problem financing seven stories. Also, it's to my understanding that the zoning can go up to 130 ft in a climate where there is such a need for housing
and we want it as as much as possible as fast as possible. I believe that the 12story initial plan was a great plan. It was something that was going to be needed for the community. Um, there was concerns of course from the community, but I would love to have seen the 12
stories be used and to the rest of the IIAG members that are probably on Zoom or in the crowd today. Um, thank you guys for all we've done and it's been a long run and we're going to see it through and to the board. Thank you again. >> Thanks for
>> Good evening folks. Mr. Chairman, Director Shen, I'm a resident of Charlestone. I'm a trade unionist. I live about 200 200 yards away. I worked in that area uh about 38 years ago, 37 years ago. Over the course of two two years, I poured every speck of concrete
down there, built the road. Um remember going to the meetings on the Ka project. Pini did the tunnels. JF White did all the ramps. I know every inch of it. There are no immediate neighbors on that
project. The project is permitted to build to 130 ft. You want housing in this city, you go higher. I'm a neighbor of Charles Town. I live there. It's within 200 yards of an
Orange Line station. Transit orientated development. Um, financing is available in all sorts of areas. I just want to make it clear that this meeting is to approve one one building.
It's a classic five over two. Five stories of modular housing wood. And I'll be nice over two stories of podium steel. It's a classic 50 over2. It's all over the place. Below 70 ft. They do it because it's cheap.
It's cheap labor. It's cheap building materials. The question that you should ask the board, any development comes in up here, is why aren't they doing it higher? Why aren't they building it higher? The mayor wants it. There's a great need to
build more housing. Shrink the footprint. Go higher. I'm in opposition of to this project. Thank you. >> Hi. Uh, my name is Ethan Ness and I'm not going to thank everybody because it's already been done so many times.
Um, I have, uh, lived in Charles Town over 35 years now. And, uh, my wife and I have gotten very involved in the community. We started something called Charlestown Community Cares and we provide goods to the community every we
once a month and we tutor, etc., etc. So only reason I'm saying that is that I'm really in we're invested in this city and especially in this neighborhood and we really need housing and we need house
affordable housing and I think you know I if you go online and look at what Trinity's done in the past which I've done before I came and said it's pretty good stuff. I mean they they do a good job.
So, I am very much in favor of this. And beyond that, I mean, don't we at certain point have a moral obligation. I mean, I'm I'm sitting in a community. We go we have this thing called the Charles Town and community closet where we people give us goods during the month
and then we clean them for and put them out and people once a month and come and get them for free. The amount of like un the amount of stuff that we get that still has tags on it, it's incredible. So you got a a neighborhood of that has
evolved into tremendous affluence. We really need to support the people who aren't as fortunate. We really need to. It's it's it's just the right thing to do. >> So that's all I got. Thanks. >> Thank you.
>> Hi, my name is Dedra Tao and I'm representing the artist group of Charles Town. I serve as the elected president of the board of this group. Um, and we're located in Charles Town on Medford Street. Um, and we're a 501c3.
Um, we were first approached by Trinity Financial in 2023 and we uh gave a little tour of our um, studios and gallery space and we've been in conversation with them for two years now. So, that's been great. Um, since
the year 2000, you may be aware that Boston has been losing hundreds of thousands of square feet uh worth of art studios and gallery spaces in our neighborhoods. Um, the Boston Globe has reported about this fact extensively. Um, so when Trinity came to us, we were
excited to talk. Um, so why should the city care about artist work and live space and galleries? Um, just like we need labs for science, we need studios for culture. Um, if you live in a building that includes artists live
workspaces, you would get to meet artists. And if you lived in a building where the bottom floor was a gallery, you'd get to go to art shows all the time. Um, this creates a sense of belonging and uh belonging to an actual
neighborhood. Um, it's not just retails and banks, it's an actual neighborhood this way. Um this is what we see that Trinity Financial is hoping to achieve and so we would like to support this project. Um their designs and ideas align with our mission which is to
showcase artists works and to promote highquality cultural programming for our community. Thank you. >> Thank you. I want to take a break from the inperson testimony and take some folks online. So, if folks could continue to line up behind the podium so
that you're ready to go when we resume in person testimony. Sitan Green, you can unmute yourself. >> Hello. Uh, good evening. My name is Chitan Green. I'm a proud lifelong uh, Boston resident. I'm also um a
representative of the Boston Building Trade Juniors. We represent tens of thousands of residents members as well as their family who live and work uh right in the community. Um I want to thank the BPDA
um for this awesome pro uh process and the uh just ability for the public to weigh in. Um, I also want to thank the mayor's office as well for their commitment to more housing, um, as well
as more good jobs. I feel like families now more than ever need to feel secure and I feel like that's done through more affordable housing and more good jobs with uh, family wages and benefits. So,
um, I speak in support of this project. Uh, thank you all. Have a great evening. Thank you, Sitan. Carla Wart, you can unmute yourself. >> Hello everyone. My name is Carla Wart. Uh, I wanted to thank you for the opportunity to speak. Um, I'm a member
of the I A for this pro pro project. Sorry. I have lived at the Bunker Hill Apartments for 20 plus years. I serve as the president of the Charlestown Resident Alliance, also known as the CRA.
I'm here today because I want to speak in cautious support of the proposed development at Austin Street. The CRA is a democratically elected local tenant organization that represents residents of the Boston Housing Authorities's
Bunker Hill Public Housing Development. As the BPTA knows, Bunker Hill is a is several years into its own major redevelopment project. All public housing units there are being demolished and then reconstructed.
Over time, we will become a larger mixed income mixed finance community. While most replacement units are being built on site at Bunker Hill, there was an agreement to rebuild a hundred of the units off site at another
location in the same neighborhood. Our residents have been guaranteed the right to return after redevelopment and Austin Street is being considered as a potential site for some of these permanent homes. The CRA understands
that this project includes building B may include projectbased voucher units which could accommodate the offsite Bunker Hill units. As representatives of the residents of Bunker Hill, the CRA has closely followed this proposed
project. We urge the BPDA board to review the written comments we submitted in July. We think Austin Street is a great location where our residents can stay close to their home community. Relocation
can very sorry can very be disrup can be very disruptive. It's important for our residents to have continued access to the amenities and services they're used to having in their neighborhood. We also support the project's overall focus of
I'm sorry. Am I out of time? >> Yes, you are. Sorry. All right. Well, thank you. >> Thank you, Al Mitchell. You can unmute yourself. >> Hi. Um, my name is Al Mitchell. Uh, I am, uh, a building scientist and
researcher at FIUS, formerly the Passive House Institute US, and I'm here to speak in support of the project. Um the proposed construction plan to follow passive building standards uh is critical for this neighborhood especially with the project site being
located between two major roadways. So having the airtight envelope and then the controlled ventilation through those central DOS type units uh that's going to be all filtered on hospital grade filtration will be uh able to provide a healthy indoor environmental quality for
all of the occupants of the building. As well as with the major roadways, there's a concern about noise. The uh wellinssulated walls of the passive building's construction as well as the airtight envelope and the limitation of penetrations for ventilation will all help reduce uh any of the noise
providing again a more comfortable interior environment for the occupants. Um, additionally, the quality of construction that we see in these types of projects um have shown up successfully throughout the entire city of Boston um and have created long,
healthy, durable spaces so that people are able to uh again live a healthy uh a healthy, happy life inside of their project at lower energy costs um which creates long-term affordability as utility rates may change in the future. Thank you.
>> Thank you, Phil Carr. You can unmute yourself. >> I uh can you hear me? >> Yes, we can hear you. >> Phil car, Charles Town resident. Um I like the original proposal. Um understand that it was delayed to address some concerns um which has now
changed the market and with tariffs and financing and building materials. But um uh Charles Town's real estate prices continue to drastically increase uh making living in the neighborhood unattainable for those of modest and even those wellto-do means. Uh so varying AMI affordable and workforce
housing is needed in Charlestown to try to remedy this ongoing issue. Um there are also many older residents who grew up in Charles Town and would like to come back but say that they cannot afford to do so. Um, also in the past year, I've read several Boston Globe articles where residents from various
neighborhoods of Boston would like to see local residents be given first preference in new development. So for any government employee, elected official, or candidates who may be listening, uh, this would be a welcome policy or law change across every neighborhood of Boston. And to circle
back, I think this project site can help with all that I've mentioned. Thank you. >> Thank you. We're going to move back to in-person testimony and then we'll come back to the folks that are still on Zoom. >> Uh hello everybody. Uh and thank you for
having this. My name is Bill Jacobson. I'm a Charles Town resident. I live quite close to this site just on the other side of uh of Rutherford A and I I'm speaking here in support of of the projects. I've of the project. I've
raised my family in the area. Since we moved in 13 years ago, we've seen plans and discussions around a redevelopment along Rutherford Avenue and just the many many um ways that that has come.
And so it is really nice to see something come forward and uh go through all the different things that need to happen and the process that needs to happen to make it h make it come together. This site, at least as a resident, seems like an ideal place um
for res for more residential that is drastically needed in the city. It's right next to the tea. It's it's got all the things that it seems like it should be. So, I'm I'm highly supportive of this moving forward. Thank you. >> Thank you.
>> Good evening. Uh my name is David Reinfeld. Um, I'm also a Charle Town resident of 20 years. I want to thank the BPDA for holding this um this open forum and the chair and and director. I
I do want to say that I think that Abby and her team did a tremendous job um laying out the opportunity and the vision for that parcel. Um over the past 20 years, I probably passed that parcel 10 times a day. So in the in the
hundreds if not thousands and it's a parking lot and uh to be able to create something uh that is community focused that uh includes affordable housing and community space and green space um in an
area that right now is is used as a a parking lot and uh you know there is touch truck and there are some other activities but I think it's a tremendous uh opportunity for for Charle Town and the community. We've uh my wife and I have raised uh three children. Uh we
live very close um to that spot. So um we'd love to see that um be developed. I I would I would question some of the um people that are up here that are are against the project only because of the financing or the shrinking of the the
space but the increase in the height because I think that um the the development company has put forward a plan that's financable and um I mean if there is um questions on that I'm I'm sure that they would be able to answer.
So I'm in strong support of it. Hello. Good afternoon. Uh, Amanda Reinfeld. Um, I am a Charles Town resident um of 20 years. I want to thank the board for having this open meeting. Um, it's great to be in person and be able to express your um, feelings about
the project. I also want to thank Trinity um, for for proposing the project. Um, I feel like they worked really well with the community. They've spent a lot of time over the last few years really talking to the various groups. As my husband said, we've raised three kids in Charles Town. Um they've
been through all the sports. Uh we've dealt with looking for um sports fields, um traffic concerns, uh rebutification of uh and development of Rutherford AB, and we've seen some of those come to fruition, but not others. And I feel like they really kind of dug into the
different things that we need. All three of our kids went to the nursery school there. Um there's always been a big need for commercial space for these um these businesses to grow and to bring in others from to from different communities as well. And we haven't been able to do that without additional space
that's affordable. Um and same thing obviously with the um exercise and wellness. Wellness is a huge part of everyone's dayto-day and um mental uh well-being. and to have a place where the YMCA could possibly move in is is
extremely important for all ages of our community. Um, so I I am standing here supporting the project and I feel like, you know, besides obviously the number one thing is um affordable housing, but it does offer all these different things
and I think that um Trinity's done a great job and I support the project. Thank you. Hi there. My name is Ally Johnson. Um, and I'm just going to build upon what a few people behind me have said. Thank you for having us. Um, I'm uh I've lived in Charle Town for over 25 years. I've raised two children. I've probably been
um past those lots 10 15 times a day going to work and, you know, my children going to school. Um, and I love our neighborhood. I feel so lucky that we've been able to have this experience. Um, and I just I'm I'm so in support of taking what is right now basically just
dirty parking lots and turning them into something that can be good for our entire community and good for a lot of other people that have don't have access to our community. Um, so I just um I also really appreciate the fact that the tornado development team mostly live in Charletown and that means that they're going to have to suffer with the rest of
us when building happens and all that kind of stuff that goes on. But I just want to say I'm I'm really in support and um I appreciate the thought that they've put into it and I appreciate having this conversation. Thank you. >> I'm going to move right now to to some more Zoom comments and then I'll come
back to the in person folks. Ashley Miss Linsky, you can unmute yourself. >> Thank you. I am a Charleston resident and unfortunately I'm in opposition of this project. I feel like the location is quite challenging already in terms of
traffic each and every day going into Boston and Cambridge both and putting a hundred new units to start likely with cars. I understand of course that there's train access. However, many people do not use the train. Um the Gilmore Bridge is bumperto-bumper both
ways every single day, morning and night. And I can't imagine how this development would really help the community get to and from the places that they need to be. I do love the cultural aspect. I appreciate very much the desire to add outdoor space and arts
and culture in that area, but the residential aspect in this specific location is quite concerning to me. Thank you. >> Thank you, Jennifer Hos, you can unmute yourself. >> Hi, good evening. Thank you. As a
longtime resident of Boston, I want to express my support for the proposed development in Charles Town. Our city, as many people have said, urgently needs um attainable and thoughtful um housing, and this project represents that. Um
equally important is the inclusion of the community service elements like the YMCA and the daycare centers. Um and so I also would like to acknowledge Trinities. Um, they have a reputation of building highquality, well-th thoughtout developments that lift communities.
Their track record gives me confidence that this project will be executed with the care and will add lasting value to Charles Town. So, I'm in full support. Um, and I encourage the city to advance this project. Thank you. >> Thank you. Tina Goodnau, you can unmute yourself.
>> Hi, everyone. Can you hear me? >> Yes, we can hear you. Hi, my name is Tina Goodnell and I'm here today to express uh support for the proposed development at the Austin Street lot. I'm a member of the IEG for this project. Longtime Charles Town
resident and mother. After living in VHA for 18 years, I now uh live at the new building, the Stallada. All of us at CRA are genuinely uh excited about this opportunity. It will expand affordable housing and ensures
these units can remain in Charles Town. As we move forward, we want to emphasize the importance of maintaining robust tenant protections, public housing. Tenants at Bunk Hill are entitled to grievance rights, income based rent without additional occupant costs, and
meaningful language access for residents who speak language other than English. for the on-site units at Bunky Hill. The CRA has worked productively uh since 2015. We also want to make sure that all our
residents have the same rights under their leases regardless of whether they are relocated to Arson Street or stay on site at Bunker Hill, for example. Never mind. I'm sorry I messed up here, but I I just want to, you know, briefly
just say like we are in support of it this project. We are excited about it uh you know and um you know that we we're just looking for the robust uh tenant protections um because they're really important. We're
glad that Trinity uh is on board with this approach. So thank you. Thank you Marlene Kalixto. You can unmute yourself. >> Marlene. >> Yes. Hello. Can you hear me? >> Yep.
>> Yes. Hello. Good evening. My uh my name is Marlene Khalitto. I am currently employee in early childhood education at the Charleston Nursery School. Before that, I was a nanny for many years and for many families. um in Charleston. Um I am originally
from El Salvador and I came here in 1990. In 1996 I was able to become American citizen and my dream of having a home was my main thing but that never happened. Uh for many years I lived in
Everett and I commuted to Charles Town on the MBTA subway and bus. Earlier this year, I needed to find a new place to live and I searched for an affordable apartment that I could afford on my salary. The options were pretty bad. It
was horrible. Um, I was close to take a basement studio that didn't even have a proper kitchen and it was $1,700. Um, with help from a friend, I was thankfully able to apply for an
affordable apartment in the South End that was one of the BPDA's inclusionary development units. I can now afford a home with two bedrooms and one bathroom and especially a kitchen and um Hello.
>> Yes, go ahead. >> Yes. Um, and now I can afford my apartment and um, is clean, is um, high quality and safe. Now I live close to the orange line, so I don't need a parking space. I fully support the
creation of the affordable housing on the Austin Street parking lot. There are many people with just like mine that work in education and would love to live in Charleston. And um I would like to thank the BPDA for the work that you are
doing creating affordable housing in this city. I love where I live. I love where I work and I strongly urge you to uh vote in favor of this project. Thank you. >> Thank you. We're going to move back to inerson testimony and we'll finish out
the Zoom testifiers um when we're completed with in person. >> Thank you. Uh good evening, Mr. Chairman, uh, members of the board, Director Shen, my name is John Scarin. I've lived in Charles Town for 20 years. Uh, I'm probably the closest thing to a
direct butter to this project as my uh, kitchen window looks out at the Austin Street lots. Um, so I will be uh, watching this uh, be developed over the next 5, 10 years, however long it takes. Um, I was also a member of the IAG on
this project. Uh, and as Sarah mentioned in her presentation earlier, there have been a lot of discussions, a lot of meetings on this project over the last several years. Um, I think Trinity has done a great job of coming to the table uh with the residents. I know that there's been a lot of concerns expressed
over a number of things. Um, obviously nobody gets everything that they want, but um, I think they have made a real concerted effort uh to address the concerns of Charletown uh with this project. I think building B is a great first step in reimagining that area of
Rutherford A which desperately needs it. Um so I very much uh urge the board to support moving forward uh with the project. Thank you. >> Thank you. Good evening uh BPDA board. My name is Tim McKenna. I'm a Charles Town resident and serve on the boards of
the Charletown Youth Soccer Association and the Charletown Neighborhood Council. Uh through that involvement, I was invited to join uh this effort first as a member of the PRC and then on the IG. Uh my comments today in support of this project are my own. Uh during plan
Charles Town process, I work closely with the BPDA team to advocate for more open active spaces uh to support our growing youth sports programs in town. That advocacy helped shape this RFP for the project, ensuring open space objectives were included. Since Trinity
was awarded the project, I've engaged with their team throughout uh this process of the state as well. While we were initially hopeful that larger open active structured gameplay fields could be incorporated, it became clear that there were some technical constraints that made it difficult to achieve that
and still have the space feel integrated with the overall project. Um, the community's need for active open space remains, but we recognize that this wasn't necessarily the right location for all ages or all types of programming. That being said, I believe
design presented is stronger because of that collaboration. The open spaces are well suited for the residents and amenity partners. The natural grass and flexible lawn are ideal for early education programs and we expect that we can uh leverage those spaces for some of the youngest athletes uh in similar age
groups. and net new open space as committed as part of plan Charlestown is always welcome. Uh I'm also encouraged by the partnership with Boston YMCA and I'm confident they'll continue to be strong community partners for programs like Charlestown Youth Basketball. I look
forward to see how this new facility creates even more opportunities for access and collaboration. So thank you to the Trinity team. Thank you Sarah. Thank you BPK board. >> Good evening. Uh my name is Scott Gregovich. I'm also a resident of Charletown over 10 years and co-chair of
the YMCA in Charletown uh advisory board. I'd written a few words to send in, but I'm thrilled to be able to deliver them in person. One thing that I've learned about Charletown over the years that it's a proud and protective community that takes care of its own. And one of the standout results of Trinity's projects is the inclusion of
facilities and spaces that will be taking care of its own, the residents of Charles Town. Let's face it, the word development is a trigger for almost anybody who lives in the city, especially a densely populated neighborhood like Charles Town. However, when done correctly with the community
involved and at top of mind, as Trinity has done successfully many times around greater Boston, it can be beneficial for those that have lived there for many years. The Austin Street project is poised to be one of these success stories, adding to Charlestown green space, artist, gallery space, child
care, sports field, and of course, my favorite part, a new YMCA. A new home for the Charlestown Y has some has been something that the Y has been in search for for several years, but each conversation continues to feel like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Trinity has offered an amazing
solution for the future of the YMCA in Charles Town. This reason alone, the community should be supportive of this project. A state-of-the-art health, wellness, and fitness facility for all ages in an accessible location included a muchneeded city aquatic center, an
urban oasis of green space, sports courts, and a pool. It sounds like a dream come true. For some of us, it actually is. Year. For years, there have been many people diligently exploring options for the next iteration of Charles Town's YMCA. And an outcome like
this does feel like a dream come true. Trinity once again shows their commitment to the community by listening to the needs of the residents which has adjusted the designs and the plans to the to its betterment of this project and aligned itself with long-term solutions for Charles Town, including
the YMCA. When I'm out and about in the city, I love when somebody asks me about this project because it's one more person I can get excited about it. >> Thank you. >> Good evening, members of the board. My name is Daniel Daly. I'm a lifelong Boston resident. I'm also a business
representative for local 103 with the electricians. Uh the city needs housing and we could really use good paying jobs for uh for union workers in in the city of Boston. So I rise in support of this project. Thank you. >> Good evening. My name is Lauren Reyes
and I'm the chief operating officer with the YMCA of Greater Boston. So, we are the parent uh group to the Charlestown YMCA. As was has been stated by several people, we have been looking for a new home for the Charles Town Y. Um we're in the process of relocating and we made a
commitment to the community that we wanted to remain in Charles Town. Obviously, with some space constraints, it's been hard to figure out where that can be. And so, we're really excited that we're able to partner with Trinity for this project to be able to offer a community space. Um the YMCA never turns
anybody away for their inability to pay. And so bringing us into that space and having an opportunity to be here allows us to be able to serve the community in a way that benefits all. We say we serve people from birth until because whatever age that is, we're able to serve at the Y. Um we also partner with the city of
Boston to provide free swimming lessons for children as well as free community health programs to seniors and to adults. So having a home for the Y in this uh development is going to be great and definitely want to show the Y support for this project. Thank you. Thank you everyone. I'm Kelly Peligrini,
20-y year resident of Charles Town. I'm also the founder and uh director at Charlestown Nursery School. So, I represent the nursery school. I'm a resident. I'm a parent. I'm doing elder care. I'm a community member and I just want to enthusiastically support this
project. I think it's the best of what Boston can be. It is partnerships across uh the community. It represents the housing we need. It represents the wellness. It represents the education, the artists, and the work that is desperately needed for our union workers. So, we are incredibly
enthusiastic about what this project offers to the city, to Charles Town, and the partnership with the development and the vision that you set forward with incredible partners at Trinity. So, uh, we hope you break ground tomorrow. Let's get to work. Boston better and a vision
for what will allow my children to stay here, what will run the young children that we educate to stay here and will keep us well and housed and educated and growing and working and we look forward to all that's ahead. So, let's get to work. Thank you.
>> Thank you. I'm going to continue with the uh Zoom testifiers. If there's anybody left in the room who would like to testify, please uh line up behind the podium and we'll get you at the end. Nancy Johnson, you may unmute yourself.
>> Hello, my name is Nancy Johnson. Um, I am a lifelong Boston resident and a 20-year Charles Town resident. I was a member of the I AG board for uh this project. Um, and I'm also a member of the CNC. My comments are my own here
today. Um, I have fully supported the mayor's vision to use city land for affordable housing and I was very excited when she announced that Austin Street Lots would be a place that would be developed from a parking lot into a
viable part of the community. Um, I have thought the overall design is rob is robust and community focused and the drive to create more affordable housing immediately. however, has resulted in a diminished building B. And so, while I'm
supporting the overall development, I think building B needs to be revisited. Um, it's going to have 75 deeply affordable units that are relocated for the Bunker Hill housing development and the balance of the 125 will be workforce
housing. in the process of sort of um it's been sort of value engineered down from 12 stories to 7 from 218 units to 125. The commercial space has been removed from the building. There is no
parking plan for any residents of building B which I feel makes those residents who will be my community members and neighbors sort of less than um the others who will be living there. Um it's a 50-year primarily wood um
constructed building. And I just think that um while it's it's under central there are financing issues, this is city-owned land. It's a city hired developer and the city needs to maximize what they're putting in that space. This
is not something that can be replaced. And it's through creating a smaller building um on a on a site where every building was supposed to have something that drew other residents in. This building will be much smaller. And I don't want my future neighbors feeling
like they're guests in their own um in their own development over there. I I really think that while the overall project has has a good vibe and they've done a lot of work with the community, the value engineering of building B, the city can do much better. Um, and that I
I I feel that the people who live there, who will be my neighbors, should feel that they have the same amenities um, and the same access and have um, a building that is as much a part of the community over there as any other
building. Thank you for your time. >> Thank you, Helen Chin Schlleete. You can unmute yourself. >> Good afternoon, members. Members of the board and director Shen, my name is Helen Chin Schllete. I live at 50 Main
Street in Charles Town. In 1917, my grandfather opened a laundry at 34 Main Street. My parents continued its operation and my eight siblings and I are proud townies. We are very happy that Trinity Financial
is providing some much needed housing to the community in the Austin Street block. a branch of the Y at the site is a real major plus. Trinity has been wonderful in meeting numerous times with community folks and have made
satisfactory alterations to their plans. For nearly 40 years, I have worked with Trinity Fanel on affordable housing projects across the city. They are excellent to work with, well experienced, and full of
integrity. I urge Boston Planning and Development to vote to approve the first phase of development. Thank you. >> Thank you. Raul Escobar, you can unmute yourself.
>> Hi, my name is Raul Escobar, a resident of Charson for the past 24 years where my wife and I have raised our four our two kids in charge. I'm here to support this project not only as a longtime Charleston resident but also as a
business owner in the greater Boston area where I have seen firsthand the need of affordable housing as every year many of my employees uh leave the city of Boston and move away because of affordability issues.
I'm excited about this project, not only because of the affordable housing, but also because of the community and indoor and outdoor spaces. Thank you. >> Thank you. Is there anybody else online
who would like to testify? Please raise your virtual hand. >> Vice Chair, this concludes the public hearing portion of this item. >> Thank you very much. Do any of the board members have any questions or comments? >> Uh, yes. I I think it's a it's a great
project. Um, and clearly there's been some wonderful outreach and communication with the community. The fact that so many folks showed up tonight and and I think that's a recorded as long as I've been here for for Zoom participants. So, uh, looks great. I want to drill down on some of the sustainability. You've got some
height. Um, is there any plans for PV? Uh, can you talk a little bit about that at the microphone? We are planning to include PV on the roof. >> Well, how much? >> So, currently we're modeled at 144 kilowatts.
>> Okay, that's I think that that's a terrific start. And uh again, just the green space so much all electric passive house construction. I mean this this again I I I I I am proud to sound like a broken record at this board, but I appreciate projects that don't make it
in either or. You can either have some deeply affordable units or the fully sustainable. We can and we should be striving for both. So I appreciate your efforts here. Thank you, Mr. Chair. >> Um first of all, just want to thank everybody that that came to um testify
tonight. Um, as as Matt said, this is, you know, it's been a great um turnout and we definitely appreciate um hearing from the community. Um, kudos to Trinity and Icon. I mean, on all of the uh
compliments that you received throughout the process. It's also not something we always hear about a development project. So, we really appreciate that. And then um lastly, I just the degree of affordability is just phenomenal and uh
you know just really really appreciate that program. Thank you. I'll uh second that. And I'm curious as to um why the uh development has been scaled down from um
taller building with more units. >> Thank you. Um when we originally set out on this, the master plan proposed, I believe it was 698 homes across the development. Um we're now at 703. So in general uh the the
project has not been scaled down. The first phase was scaled down. Um given rising construction costs and interest rate unpredictability. Uh we realized that and given the the availability of subsidies. We had to
scale the project down in order to fit within the constraints that the city and state have for subsidies. Um we obviously want to build as much housing as possible but in this time period we we couldn't um double the number of
units. >> So if there were uh economic shifts there could be um a scaling up in the next phase. >> We have committed to 60% of the site
being affordable. That was what was initially desired in the uh city's RFP. Um our our goal is to um intermix market rate housing uh into the next phase or
future phases. So if conditions improve, I mean our plan is to go higher to build bigger um buildings on building A. Building B is kind of similar size and we will be flexible and nimble with the market just to figure out what will
work. But we've made a commitment to 60% affordable when the full site is built out and that's what we feel like is feasible. >> Thank you. And I I would like to ask if the proponents would like to answer any questions or comments from the public.
Um if anything stuck out to you that you would like to address, please do so. Thank you for your support. Um, I'm not sure we heard anything we felt like we needed to address. I think we've
we've we've been at it a while. Um, so just figure I make sure I give you the opportunity. >> No, we're good. >> All right. Thank you. And with that, our motion is in order. >> Enthusiastically um moved.
>> Second. So, we're doing a little different than before. So, all in favor? >> I I >> Any oppose? Eyes have it. Thank you very much. >> Thank you. [Applause] >> Yeah, exactly.
Hey, you know what? I'm gonna tell my sister. She might be looking. >> Hey, Abby. Congratulations. >> Congratulations. [Applause] Everybody, we need
>> Thank you everyone. We have to proceed with the agenda. >> My name is Laura. I'm a regional vice president. >> Oh, great to meet you. Nice to meet you. >> Awesome. I've heard great things about you. Thank you for introducing yourself.
Take care. >> That was No, >> huh? I sure I know. >> Wow. >> Okay, we will return back to our item
numbers. Item number 23, request authorization to wave further review of the Emerson College institutional master plan notification form for the renewal and extension of the institutional master plan dated September 11th, 2025
and approve the renewal of the Emerson College institutional master plan pursuant to section 80D-5.2E 2 E section 80D-6 section 80D-8 of the Boston Zoning Code.
>> Thank you and good evening, Chair Shepard, members of the board, Director Shen, and Secretary Pyus. My name is Jason Frell, and I'm a project assistant in the development review division. I'm here before you today to discuss the proposed renewal
and 5-year extension with no changes to the institutional master plan for Emerson College. This extension will help provide Emerson flexibility as they embark on their new strategic plan and navigate challenges faced by the higher education sector
today. Upon expiration of this proposed extension, Emerson plans to pursue a full 10-year institutional master plan on September 11th, 2025. The proponent filed an institutional master plan project notification form for the
proposed renewal and 5-year extension pursuant to article 80D of the code. Since this is an extension with no changes, a public meeting was available upon request, although none was requested. The public comment period ended on October 13, 2025.
That concludes the presentation for this item, but the Emerson team is available to answer any questions you may have. >> Thank you, Jason. Are there any questions or comments from the board? >> Seeing and hearing none, a motion is in order.
>> So move. Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? Eyes have it. Thank you. Item number 25, contractual payments. I need a motion to pay our bills. I move that we pay our
bills. I second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? Eyes have it. Thank you. >> Item number 26. I'll be turning it over to Dr. Shen for his remarks.
>> Good evening. Um, members of the board, um, thank you again for your, uh, diligent service again today. Um, I want to start my report by uh a a description of the citywide needs assessment that
you approved today. Um, this um needs assessment was reissued with a refresh scope and it will help lay the foundation for exactly the type of planning that we want to do at the city planning department. focus on identifying and delivering on the needs
of our residents, our communities, and our city as a whole. The needs assessment will focus on understanding the planning criteria and infrastructure needed to grow the city's population, including adding more families, increasing housing affordability,
increasing access to city services and open space, creating economic opportunities and growth, and preparing for climate change. and improving mo mobility citywide. One of the things that this um needs assessment will do
will actually um be the foundation for creating a kind of criteria planning criteria for what we think of as the 15minute and 880 uh sustainable communities within our city. The mayor is very interested in understanding how
we can actually adapt these kinds of uh planning standards um for the different parts of the city each uh quite unique from its own so that we can make sure that we can understand how the planning criteria can be adapted to each each of
our neighborhoods. Now, this assessment will also serve as the foundation for us to do the short and long-term planning that will support Boston being a home for everyone and being a family oriented city that meets the needs of its residents. And I emphasize the 880 part
which is for the 8year-old all the way to 80 year old though today we heard that the YMCA starts from very young but the uh the upper limit is uh undefined. Um the second point I want to make is uh about the article 80 improvements that
you heard today. I want to acknowledge that these improvements to article 80 that the staff have shared with you today both the direct displacement disclosure which was identified as part of the city's uh Boston's uh anti-displacement action plan and the
new community engagement tools that we're making available to developers. Now the disclosure and the engagement um actually promotes and support best practices. Um we will begin to pilot
these uh as part of the modernization of article 80 that's been underway and we hope that these uh best practices will be adopted by the developers uh and and to help them actually work with community members to continue to improve
the article 80 process. um so that we can advance growth in our city. Um the public hearing tonight on Austin Street lots um actually represent a a major milestone for this project. As many of you know, the site was identified for
redevelopment in the citywide uh land audit and in plan Charles Town. Um the PDA master plan that was approved earlier um envisions 705 units of housing on this public on these public
parcels currently hosting underutilized parking lots adjacent to the orange line. Um I this first phase that was approved the building B tonight will deliver 123 units of incomerestricted housing. I know you heard that there's
some disappointment uh as to the sort of value engineering and the reduction of size but I think at this particular economic moment uh it's critical that we continue to make sure that projects that are feasible can move forward because it's so important that we continue to
provide construction jobs for the trades and actually still continue to make changes in um our city. Um, this project I think in the end is a great example of using obviously public land for public good. We look forward to reviewing the
rest of the the the project, the three remaining buildings on the site and hopefully the economic conditions at that time will be better and that we will be able to redistribute more density on the overall project site. Um,
development project summary. Um I want to highlight and summarize the development projects that was approved tonight. There were two new development projects delivering 159 total new residential units of which uh the great majority 129 of them will be
incomerestricted units. The total development costs and budget will be around $118 million. um they will represent um or deliver 166,000 square feet and when cons when construction is
um is um uh when during the construction it will um actually deliver 157 trade uh jobs and um lead to 78 indirect jobs. I want to end the report tonight by highlighting uh two certificate of
completions that was approved tonight that are delivering real tangible benefits to the community. The first project at 55 Summer Street in downtown will uh contribute $25,000 to St. Anony's Shrine uh shrine. Um there is a
significant linkage payment $51,000 uh dollars to fund affordable housing and then 9,000 towards job training. There's also a separate contribution of $75,000 to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the bike share
system which has been continue uh growing in our city and the and of course all around the project public realm improvements around the site. Uh the second project is the uh uh completion of Roxbury Preparatory Charter School. The project uh
reconstructed um public sidewalks in the vicinity of the school um delivering accessible pedestrian ramps, a crosswalk, curb cuts, and new street trees. And of course, the building will provide new educational opportunities for the students in this neighborhood.
So with that, I want to thank you again for your uh service and um we see you again in uh November. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> And for my last, I will need a motion to adjourn.
>> So move. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I I Any oppose? >> Eyes have it. Thank you all for attending. >> Nice job. [Applause]