0 Wharf District Council Envisions Boston Waterfront Transformation

Boston waterfront offices

Credit: BBJ

The Boston waterfront is seeing an unprecedented transformation of office, residential and retail developments, and the Wharf Council is following suite with a new blueprint for the future.

The Wharf District Council’s “public-realm vision” is a plan to improve public spaces surrounding Boston’s waterfront, spanning from the Northern Avenue bridge through Christopher Columbus park.

From the Boston Business Journal:

The plan’s proponents say it’s a necessary supplement to tie together disparate planning efforts. It would create a showcase for art installations and iconic attractions, historic markers and “active gathering experiences.” The plan includes a combined 212,187 square feet in open-space improvements at three key development sites: Marriott Long Wharf, the Harbor Garage and Hook Lobster.

The total cost estimate for the projects outlined in the visioning plan ranges from $24.8 million to $37.8 million, but financing — not to mention who would take on the actual execution of the vision — is unclear. Ris suggested developers looking to transform the three key waterfront parcels could kick in the money.

0 Boston Harbor Garage Towers Get The Red Light

As it stands now the city and state are at a no vote for the Harbor Garage development of 2 skyscrapers.

Boston Harbor garage plan

Credit: Bostino

From Banker and Tradesman:

A state official dealt a blow to Chiofaro Cos.’ plans to build two skyscrapers on Boston Harbor, siding with city officials in setting a maximum size of 900,000 square feet and height of 600 feet…Matthew Beaton, the secretary of energy and environmental affairs, backed the Boston Redevelopment Authority’s guidance for the maximum buildout on the 1.3-acre parcel currently occupied by an eight-story parking garage. Developer Donald Chiofaro has stated that his original proposal for two towers totaling 1.3 million square feet is the minimum for a financially viable project.