- BMX bike trail park
- Rock-climbing walls
- Go-cart park
- Amusement park
- Minatute golf, mobile BBQ or other "restaurants" (suggested by yours truly)
- Harvard/Allston community garden
- Tennis, basketball, shuffleboard, four square, and dodge ball
- World's largest public skating rink
While we are waiting for Harvard to resume construction
Last week the Globe asked for our ideas about what might be done with Harvard's empty property in Allston. Tracy Jan writes about these in the Globe's "The Quad" column:
Movie Night at Harvard Ed Portal Tonight
Doors open at 6:00 p.m., Movie starts at 6:30 p.m. & is 95 minutes longBring friends and family to watch the DreamWorks animated movie “Monsters vs. Aliens” shown in Blu-Ray. Enjoy some popcorn and good company and watch as an eclectic and entertaining group of monsters combat a group of aliens to save the world from destruction.
Help Change Congress
Today's Supreme Court decision threatens to open the floodgate for more money to pour into the accounts of the representatives who should represent the interests of the citizens in their districts.
Please watch this video and support the important work of Change Congress.
Please watch this video and support the important work of Change Congress.
Upcoming zoning hearings
21 Greylock Road - Demolish existing structures, combine lots and erect a twenty unit residential building with parking
1304-1312 Commonwealth Ave - Replace eight foot chain link fence with a new ten foot plastic fence.
24 Melton Road - Extend living space into the attic, erect two skylight windows and renovate
More info at http://www.cityofboston.gov/ons/pdfs/allstonbright.pdf
VPs in Harvard's Skating story
Interesting that two Harvard vice-presidents are quoted in this Harvard Gazette story about ice skating in the old VW dealer on Western Ave. Is Allston so prominent these days on the administration's radar screen?
River St & Western Ave bridge meeting - Feb 3
The MassDOT Highway Division is hosting a meeting about the reconstruction of the River Street and Western Avenue bridges.
We all know these bridges and the areas around them are overwhelmed with auto traffic and horrible for bicyclists and pedestrians. Hopefully the strong advocacy of our community and others can encourage the major re-design that is needed.
The meeting has been scheduled for February 3 at the Honan-Allston Library, 300 North Harvard Street from 6 PM to 8 PM. More info is at http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/calendar/massdoteventdetail.aspx?id=138
We all know these bridges and the areas around them are overwhelmed with auto traffic and horrible for bicyclists and pedestrians. Hopefully the strong advocacy of our community and others can encourage the major re-design that is needed.
The meeting has been scheduled for February 3 at the Honan-Allston Library, 300 North Harvard Street from 6 PM to 8 PM. More info is at http://www.massdot.state.ma.us/highway/calendar/massdoteventdetail.aspx?id=138
Allston update from The Crimson
The Harvard Crimson reports on some optimistic and pessimistic views on what might happen with Harvard & Allston.
Allston in Globe photos of 2009
Such as photogenic neighborhood! The Best Boston Globe photos of 2009 has 15 photos and two of them are from Allston - Brighton Ave and Harvard Stadium.
Looks good on paper
A reminder from the Globe editorial this morning that even when a university master plan looks good it is the results, not just the plan, that really matters.
"In 2006, [Northeastern University] secured approval from the Boston Redevelopment Authority to build three new dormitories with the capacity to house a total of 2,800 students. But the university made good on building just one of those dorms for 1,200 students. Architectural plans for the 600-student dorm on St. Botolph Street are gathering dust. And a proposed dorm on the site of a Gainsborough Street garage is on indefinite hold."
Petco Unleashed coming to Allston
Petco Unleashed has signed a lease to open a store in the new building at 226 Harvard Ave. Can't imagine how this can be good news for Jim Gentile's Pet Shop just a block away.
Creative destruction on Western Ave
It is a special day when there is something good to say about something happening on Western Ave, and I am glad that today is one of those days. Mahoney's Garden Center, which has been a generous friend to our community, is almost finished demolishing the small building on Soldiers Field Road behind the Mahoney's store.
This demolition will make Mahoney's much more visible and accessible to Soldiers Field Road and will allow them to greatly increase their selection.
Skating Away
To Harvard's credit, they have found a good use for one of their empty buildings. During the next few months, the former Volkswagen dealer on Western Ave (next door to Flint Cleaners) is being transformed into an indoor skating rink.
The Mayor is coming to cut the ribbon on Friday, and more information and hours of operation are available here.
The Mayor is coming to cut the ribbon on Friday, and more information and hours of operation are available here.
Globe seeks your ideas for Harvard Allston property
Tracy Jan (tjan@globe.com) at the Globe is Seeking your ideas for Harvard's Allston property for a future story.
Faneuil St gunshot this morning
Boston Police Dept. (Boston_Police) on Twitter
"FIREARM DISCHARGE: 89 Faneuil St in Brighton, SWAT Team discharged at pit bull while conducting search warrant for armed robbery suspect."
tweeted about 2 hours ago
"FIREARM DISCHARGE: 89 Faneuil St in Brighton, SWAT Team discharged at pit bull while conducting search warrant for armed robbery suspect."
tweeted about 2 hours ago
Program Helps Sharpen Small Business Skills
Nice story about BU Sociology Professor Daniel Monti and InnerCity Entrepreneurs helping small business owners in and around Boston grow their companies.
Program Helps Sharpen Business Skills of Those Already in Business - NYTimes.com
Program Helps Sharpen Business Skills of Those Already in Business - NYTimes.com
WCVB hopes for "constructive action by Harvard"
Nice to see WCVB Channel 5 joining us in hoping that 2010 brings something better to North Allston and North Brighton than 2009 did.
Your ideas for ABNNF greening projects in 2010
During the last couple years, the ABNNF has planted trees, shrubs, groundcover, bulbs, and more on the Everett St slope and at the Gardner School playground. While these plants are hibernating under a blanket of snow, it is time to apply for grants and plan projects for the new year. Where in our neighborhood do you think we should continue with similar projects? Please leave your suggestions as comments to this post.
Gardner School students planting bulbs on Everett St
Gardner School students planting bulbs on Everett St
North Allston will probably have a new State Senator soon
Galluccio ordered to prison for one year - The Boston Globe
"State Senator Anthony D. Galluccio today was found in violation of the terms of his probation and was sentenced to one year in the Middlesex House of Correction. He was led out of the courtroom in handcuffs."
Looking for results at Boston About Results
Harvard Professor Ed Glaeser writes in today's Globe that "Transparency is the cure for those fifth-term blues" and that the Boston About Results website "is a significant Menino innovation that provides easy-to-use data about city services".
I've written in the past about the impressive scorecards used in New York City to measure how well NYC does things like keep the streets clean, so after reading Glaeser's op-ed I took a look at the Boston About Results website to see the reports that the City is publishing for each department.
Honestly, I don't see much "big innovation" over at Boston About Results. When I think about the results that I hope we are getting from the School Department, Public Works, Transportation, and Inspectional Services, it is mostly about how much our kids are learning and quality of life issues about street cleanliness and snow shoveling, potholes, and rats.
Glaeser writes that "when I checked “Boston About Results,’’ the link to the education performance page was broken". I am surprised that in the 16 or so hours since the story went on-line nobody has bothered to fix this link that is supposed to provide the "FY09 Annual Performance Report" for Boston Public Schools but instead reports that "Sorry, you have reached a nonexistent page on the City of Boston's webserver."
For departments whose links do work, I don't see much that tells the voters, citizens, and taxpayers of Boston about the results that we are getting from our City government. "Big Innovation" might be the ability to enter a zip code, ward/precinct, or street address, and get relevant information about "results" that are local to your home or business. Instead, Boston About Results gives only citywide data.
I thought it was admirable when Boston announced a goal to plant 100,000 street trees by 2020, but the Parks Department report doesn't tell much about our progress towards that goal. Sixty trees were planted between July 1, 2009 and September 30, 2009. The goal for this period was zero. What does that mean? Was there some emergency that necessitated planting trees when the City planned to plant none? Where in the City were they planted or how many of them were planted in Allston and Brighton? The PDF doesn't tell us. Are we on track to meet the 2020 goal? How clean and safe are Smith Field and Ringer Park?
Do you see "Big Innovation" in these reports that I am missing? (Admittedly I didn't have the time today to review every report in detail).
I've written in the past about the impressive scorecards used in New York City to measure how well NYC does things like keep the streets clean, so after reading Glaeser's op-ed I took a look at the Boston About Results website to see the reports that the City is publishing for each department.
Honestly, I don't see much "big innovation" over at Boston About Results. When I think about the results that I hope we are getting from the School Department, Public Works, Transportation, and Inspectional Services, it is mostly about how much our kids are learning and quality of life issues about street cleanliness and snow shoveling, potholes, and rats.
Glaeser writes that "when I checked “Boston About Results,’’ the link to the education performance page was broken". I am surprised that in the 16 or so hours since the story went on-line nobody has bothered to fix this link that is supposed to provide the "FY09 Annual Performance Report" for Boston Public Schools but instead reports that "Sorry, you have reached a nonexistent page on the City of Boston's webserver."
For departments whose links do work, I don't see much that tells the voters, citizens, and taxpayers of Boston about the results that we are getting from our City government. "Big Innovation" might be the ability to enter a zip code, ward/precinct, or street address, and get relevant information about "results" that are local to your home or business. Instead, Boston About Results gives only citywide data.
I thought it was admirable when Boston announced a goal to plant 100,000 street trees by 2020, but the Parks Department report doesn't tell much about our progress towards that goal. Sixty trees were planted between July 1, 2009 and September 30, 2009. The goal for this period was zero. What does that mean? Was there some emergency that necessitated planting trees when the City planned to plant none? Where in the City were they planted or how many of them were planted in Allston and Brighton? The PDF doesn't tell us. Are we on track to meet the 2020 goal? How clean and safe are Smith Field and Ringer Park?
Do you see "Big Innovation" in these reports that I am missing? (Admittedly I didn't have the time today to review every report in detail).
Gov: No free land for Smith, Legislature tries again
On November 18, the Massachusetts House and Senate unanimously passed bill #4356 to lease State property on Western Ave to the Joseph M. Smith Community Health Center "for construction of a new community health center building of approximately 40,000 square feet and related parking" for the next 50 years for $1.
But on Novemver 24, Governor Patrick vetoed this bill and proposed an amendment, writing that
But on Novemver 24, Governor Patrick vetoed this bill and proposed an amendment, writing that
"The needs of this valued community center to expand must be balanced against the needs of the Commonwealth, including protecting the public fisc. Requiring the state to lease extremely valuable property for $1.00 per year does not strike that balance.
Accordingly, I am returning this bill for amendment to avoid any violations of the anti-aid amendment and to provide a fiscally responsible transaction."
Earlier this week, the House rejected the Governor's amendment and adopted a new amendment that reads:
“SECTION 6. Consideration for the lease of the property described in section 1 shall be no less than fair market value for comparable rentals by the commonwealth. A lease agreement entered into pursuant to this act by or on behalf of the commonwealth shall provide that, in lieu of the payment of rent, the lessee shall provide students at a community college or state institution of higher education with opportunities to gain clinical experience in nursing and other medical fields by working with clients of the lessee, on such terms and conditions as the division of capital asset management and maintenance and lessee deem appropriate.”
Next this new amendment will go to the Senate and then possibly back to the Governor.
Bat
This brown bat was flying around my house this evening and I gently sent him out the window into the cold New Year's night. Watching it gracefully fly I was awed by its body and design. I hope it found a safe place to spend the first night of 2010.
Charles River photo captures 2nd place
Bryan Foster of Brighton took this beautiful photo of the Charles River in Allston
Wednesday deadline to vote in Jan Senate election
Below is an email from MassVOTE about the upcoming election and registration deadline. You can register to vote at
http://www.cityofboston.gov/elections/voter_reg.asp
Wednesday is the deadline to register to vote for the Special Election for US Senate to fill the seat opened when Senator Kennedy passed away.
If you know anyone who just turned 18 -- or will by the election on January 19th -- please let them know they have until 8pm Wednesday to register if they want to vote for our next US Senator. The same goes for anyone who recently moved to Massachusetts or within our state.
Unfortunately, every year, many folks miss the deadline to register. There is a simple solution that will help young people register -- pre-registration.
Some people say young people don't vote. But in the last presidential election, four out of five 18-24s who were registered turned out to vote. That's an impressive number. The problem? Only 58% of 18-24s year-olds are registered, and, of course, no one can vote who isn't registered. Many states have increased the number of young people who are registered by simply allowing young people to register as soon as they turn 17. It's a simple step that saves money (fewer last minute registrations means less work for election officials) and helps people vote. It's time for pre-registration to become the law of the land in Massachusetts. Rep. Ellen Story has a bill in the State House to bring pre-registration to our state. MassVOTE's Young Civic Leaders are leading the charge. Can you sign our petition to help pass it? http://www.change.org/actions/view/let_youth_register_to_vote_at_17
http://www.cityofboston.gov/elections/voter_reg.asp
Wednesday is the deadline to register to vote for the Special Election for US Senate to fill the seat opened when Senator Kennedy passed away.
If you know anyone who just turned 18 -- or will by the election on January 19th -- please let them know they have until 8pm Wednesday to register if they want to vote for our next US Senator. The same goes for anyone who recently moved to Massachusetts or within our state.
Unfortunately, every year, many folks miss the deadline to register. There is a simple solution that will help young people register -- pre-registration.
Some people say young people don't vote. But in the last presidential election, four out of five 18-24s who were registered turned out to vote. That's an impressive number. The problem? Only 58% of 18-24s year-olds are registered, and, of course, no one can vote who isn't registered. Many states have increased the number of young people who are registered by simply allowing young people to register as soon as they turn 17. It's a simple step that saves money (fewer last minute registrations means less work for election officials) and helps people vote. It's time for pre-registration to become the law of the land in Massachusetts. Rep. Ellen Story has a bill in the State House to bring pre-registration to our state. MassVOTE's Young Civic Leaders are leading the charge. Can you sign our petition to help pass it? http://www.change.org/actions/view/let_youth_register_to_vote_at_17
Armed robberies in Brigton
Twitter / Boston Police Dept.: ARMED ROBBERIES in Brighton ...
At Quality Market (140 N Beacon St) and Brooks St Market (32 Brooks St)
At Quality Market (140 N Beacon St) and Brooks St Market (32 Brooks St)
Western Avenue Reconstruction (in Cambridge)
Western Ave, as we know, is North Allston and North Brighton's main E-W corridor. After crossing the Western Ave Bridge it becomes a one-way street in Cambridge, and the Cambridge portion of Western Ave is going to be fully reconstructed in 2011. Community design will occur in the first half of 2010.
Western Avenue Reconstruction - Cambridge
Western Avenue Reconstruction - Cambridge
The gaps in A/B
Anthony Flint is right that Boston would be a better city if its vacant lots were filled with new development. Whether it is privately owned parcels like the Dewalt/Black & Decker building, the State's Speedway property on Western Ave, the City's Public Works yard at the intersection of Western & Everett, or Harvard's massive holdings, we have lived alongside these for too long. It would be great to see the new year bring new progress on these and other sites.
Filling in the gaps in the city - The Boston Globe
Filling in the gaps in the city - The Boston Globe
Harvard & Allston @ Shots in the Dark
A fascinating discussion about Harvard's Allston planning is going on over at the Shots in the Dark blog. Lots of insight from Harvard insiders about how Harvard did its Allston planning, especially regarding how people will travel between Cambridge and Allston.
Of particular interest is the link provided to the previously unpublished Allston report by Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences Dean Jeremy Knowles in the 12/18 2:26 pm comment. Analysis of this report deserves its own post, but in summary it proposes a clear rationale for an Allston expansion very different than what Harvard started (but may not finish).
Of particular interest is the link provided to the previously unpublished Allston report by Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences Dean Jeremy Knowles in the 12/18 2:26 pm comment. Analysis of this report deserves its own post, but in summary it proposes a clear rationale for an Allston expansion very different than what Harvard started (but may not finish).
New Balance to pay for Charles River path plowing
Thanks to Brighton-based New Balance for funding snow removal on paths along the river. Ideally the State would have sufficient revenue to pay for these basic services, but considering the state's financial difficulties, certainly this is better than impassable paths. And the river is particularly beautiful with a coating of fresh snow.
New Balance will clear Charles River pathways - Daily Business Update - The Boston Globe
New Balance will clear Charles River pathways - Daily Business Update - The Boston Globe
No Boston School Monday?!
It hasn't been snowing for hours. Is this a prank?
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Highway barriers block sound and pollution
This story reminds me of how close we seemed to be a few years ago to getting the Mass Pike to build a barrier wall along Lincoln Street. Newton, Framingham, and many other towns have them and the Pike officials told us that we were next on their list. Then the tunnel ceiling collapsed, a new governor was elected, the Pike administration changed, and our hopes of getting this wall slipped away.
Maybe this newfound public health rationale will someday help make it a priority.
Highway barriers block much more than sound - The Boston Globe
Maybe this newfound public health rationale will someday help make it a priority.
Highway barriers block much more than sound - The Boston Globe
"The research found that the barriers do more than protect neighbors against unwanted sounds. They also keep pollution away, reducing it by more than 50 percent on the other side of the barrier."
Fenway park sell-out
I know people are nuts about the Sox and Fenway, but the long line of 100+ people outside in the cold at 9:00 this morning at the Jackson Mann waiting for tickets to skate at Fenway far exceeded my expectations.
Is James Adams Serious?
In a post extolling the Influence of Educational Institutions on Boston Real Estate, James J. Adams explains how he thinks Harvard is helping Allston and Brighton. He writes:
It is highly irresponsible for Mr. Adams and John Keith (who publishes Adams's post as if it were fact) to spread this inaccurate information.
The Casey & Hayes building measures over 400,000 square feet and was owned by Cabot, Cabot & Forbes. CC&F carried out a beautiful renovation (the property is the large, all glass sprawling building on the north side of the Mass Pike opposite the Allston Depot restaurant.) CC&F then alternately marketed as office space and/or lab space unsuccessfully for 3 years. Harvard's purchase reduced vacancy in the Allston Brighton market by 20% in one fell swoop.But Mr. Adams, there is one big problem with your analysis. The building is still vacant! Harvard purchased this empty building 3 years ago and IT IS STILL EMPTY! Harvard has been increasing the vacancy rate in Allston and Brighton for years (VW, CITGO, Charlesbank Cleaners, Kmart, OfficeMax, Toureen, etc).
It is highly irresponsible for Mr. Adams and John Keith (who publishes Adams's post as if it were fact) to spread this inaccurate information.
While I was out
For 9 months of the year our wonderful dog Shaggy uses her dog door to go outside and use our backyard as her bathroom. But when it is 10 degrees outside, her door gets sealed and she has to ask to be let out.
Tonight she was home alone for 4 hours while I was at the BRA's Charlesview hearing. When I got home after the BRA Board's unanimous approval of the Charlesview proposal, I stepped in a pile of dog poop in my kitchen.
Quite a 1-2 punch, or something like that.
Special thanks to Councilor John Connolly who joined with many Allston/Brighton residents to oppose not the idea of Charlesview relocating but to seek a better plan for the relocation. It would have been easy for him to go with the flow, but I was impressed by his willingness to buck the tide exemplified by Councilor Ciommo and Reps Moran and Honan who joined the labor union reps, BRA, and Mayor to support this proposal.
One Charlesview resident spoke to support the proposal - thankfully she didn't bring any dead mice this time. All other Allston/Brighton residents who spoke (approx 10 people) opposed the current proposal.
Tonight she was home alone for 4 hours while I was at the BRA's Charlesview hearing. When I got home after the BRA Board's unanimous approval of the Charlesview proposal, I stepped in a pile of dog poop in my kitchen.
Quite a 1-2 punch, or something like that.
Special thanks to Councilor John Connolly who joined with many Allston/Brighton residents to oppose not the idea of Charlesview relocating but to seek a better plan for the relocation. It would have been easy for him to go with the flow, but I was impressed by his willingness to buck the tide exemplified by Councilor Ciommo and Reps Moran and Honan who joined the labor union reps, BRA, and Mayor to support this proposal.
One Charlesview resident spoke to support the proposal - thankfully she didn't bring any dead mice this time. All other Allston/Brighton residents who spoke (approx 10 people) opposed the current proposal.
Charlesview at the BRA Board meeting on Thursday
On Thursday at 5:30, the Board of Directors of the Boston Redevelopment Authority will ask if residents of Allston and Brighton support the proposed Charlesview relocation. The meeting is in room 901 (9th floor) of City Hall.
It would be great to have you join us tomorrow and tell the BRA how you feel. If you are unable to attend, perhaps you could share your thoughts by replying to this email.
Thank you to the many neighbors who have contributed to the review of this project during the past several months both in person and in writing. For reference, our previous comments can be viewed at:http://www.scribd.com/doc/21133920/Charlesview-DPIR-Commentshttp://www.scribd.com/doc/19017839/Charlesview-Comment-Letters-March-2008
Carpools for tomorrow's meeting will meet at 4:30 in front of Star Market and the Honan Library.
If you can't attend, the meeting will be televised live on Comcast 24/RCN 13 and at www.cityofboston.gov/cable/live.asp.City Council votes down term limits
Tom Menino can serve until he dies Universal Hub
A/B Councilor Ciommo joined with a majority of his colleagues to defeat proposals to create term limits for the Mayor and City Council. According to Universal Hub, Councilor Ciommo said:
A/B Councilor Ciommo joined with a majority of his colleagues to defeat proposals to create term limits for the Mayor and City Council. According to Universal Hub, Councilor Ciommo said:
"It demonstrates a lack of confidence in the voter when we arbitrarily choose a number of terms. ... At the end of the day, it's about choice. ... My summer was ruined, Councilor Tobin, but it was a good challenge."
Presentation from Anderson Bridge meeting
Here is the presentation given at last night's meeting
http://www.eot.state.ma.us/acceleratedbridges/downloads/AndersonBridge_pres_121509.pdf
Anderson Bridge info sheet from LivableStreets
The excellent advocacy organization LivableStreets has created this informative info sheet for tonight's meeting about the Anderson Bridge reconstruction.
Legislators doing some legislating
When faced with the wide range of challenges that we have in Allston and Brighton, we need residents and our elected officials using every possible mechanism to improve our community. One seldom-used "lever" is our elected officials power to file legislation, and it is interesting to see what legislation is being filed by elected officials who represent other parts of the City and State.
Many Allston and Brighton residents are not happy with the Charlesview proposal for the site between Soldiers Field Road, Telford St, and Western Ave. That the building was first proposed to have 118 units in a 10 story building and is now proposed to be 85 feet (7 stories) tall with 80 units is little solace. The building, in either form, will have an impact on both Western Ave and the Artesani Playground / Herter Park portion of the Charles River.
While the Allston/Brighton elected officials have written letters to the BRA and attended meetings about this project, in a different part of Boston the elected officials are doing something more.
Reps. Marty Walz, Byron Rushing, and Senator Anthony Petrucelli have sponsored H.R. 853 which would prevent any new construction that would cast a shadow on the "Charles River Esplanade, Christopher Columbus Park, Commonwealth Avenue Mall, Copley Square Park, Magazine Beach Park, or Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway."
The prohibition on Charles River shadows would not apply to the Allston/Brighton section of the river, as the “Charles River Esplanade” is defined as "the land in the city of Boston bounded by the Charles River Dam, the Boston University Bridge, so called, the Charles River, Embankment Road, and James Jackson Storrow Memorial Drive."
Real estate agent John Keith thinks this legislation is a bad idea, while the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay is rallying its members to support it. In the abstract I'd agree with John that centralizing planning authority - moving it from the City to the State - might not be the way to go. But in reality, the BRA has proven itself to be no advocate for the Allston/Brighton community and unwilling to do the type of planning and zoning that we need to balance the interests of residents, developers, and the City. So anything that shifts power away from the BRA is at least worth considering.
Whether or not this specific piece of legislation is good or bad, it is refreshing to see elected officials doing everything in their power - pulling all the levers - to advance their cause. Even if the legislation doesn't pass, it certainly could create some negotiating power. Just think of the reaction if this legislation was amended to extend its reach along the Charles River to the Western Ave / Arsenal St bridge that connects North Brighton and Watertown!
Many Allston and Brighton residents are not happy with the Charlesview proposal for the site between Soldiers Field Road, Telford St, and Western Ave. That the building was first proposed to have 118 units in a 10 story building and is now proposed to be 85 feet (7 stories) tall with 80 units is little solace. The building, in either form, will have an impact on both Western Ave and the Artesani Playground / Herter Park portion of the Charles River.
While the Allston/Brighton elected officials have written letters to the BRA and attended meetings about this project, in a different part of Boston the elected officials are doing something more.
Reps. Marty Walz, Byron Rushing, and Senator Anthony Petrucelli have sponsored H.R. 853 which would prevent any new construction that would cast a shadow on the "Charles River Esplanade, Christopher Columbus Park, Commonwealth Avenue Mall, Copley Square Park, Magazine Beach Park, or Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway."
The prohibition on Charles River shadows would not apply to the Allston/Brighton section of the river, as the “Charles River Esplanade” is defined as "the land in the city of Boston bounded by the Charles River Dam, the Boston University Bridge, so called, the Charles River, Embankment Road, and James Jackson Storrow Memorial Drive."
Real estate agent John Keith thinks this legislation is a bad idea, while the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay is rallying its members to support it. In the abstract I'd agree with John that centralizing planning authority - moving it from the City to the State - might not be the way to go. But in reality, the BRA has proven itself to be no advocate for the Allston/Brighton community and unwilling to do the type of planning and zoning that we need to balance the interests of residents, developers, and the City. So anything that shifts power away from the BRA is at least worth considering.
Whether or not this specific piece of legislation is good or bad, it is refreshing to see elected officials doing everything in their power - pulling all the levers - to advance their cause. Even if the legislation doesn't pass, it certainly could create some negotiating power. Just think of the reaction if this legislation was amended to extend its reach along the Charles River to the Western Ave / Arsenal St bridge that connects North Brighton and Watertown!
Anderson Bridge meeting on Tuesday
The Anderson Bridge crosses the Charles between North Harvard St in Allston and JFK St in Cambridge
http://www.eot.state.ma.us/acceleratedbridges/downloads/AndersonBridge_meeting121509.pdf
Ciommo opposes term limits for Mayor
Thanks to Adam Gaffin for his coverage of the Boston City Council!
Council debates mayoral term limits Universal Hub
Council debates mayoral term limits Universal Hub
"Councilor Mark Ciommo (Allston/Brighton) opposed the measure, said that with term limits, a mayor might actually spend more time building up a machine, to run for higher office. He said the best polls are elections."
The letter that Faust could & should have written
Dear Neighbors in Allston and Brighton,
It is with deep regret that I write to you with the news that in early 2011 Harvard will stop construction of the Science Complex that began construction in 2008 on Western Avenue in Allston. I would like to take this opportunity to offer my apology to the many people who looked forward to the construction jobs, permanent employment, and neighborhood revitalization that we expected this project to create.
Harvard has begun an internal review to reevaluate our long-term goals and how these goals may translate into uses for our property in Allston and Brighton. But while Harvard will and must think about the needs of the University in the decades and centuries into the future, we also recognize our obligation to be a good neighbor today and tomorrow.
To this end, I am joining with Boston Mayor Thomas Menino to appoint a working group charged with making significant quality of life improvements in North Allston and North Brighton in the months and years to come. This group will report quarterly to Mayor Menino and I both in person and in writing to discuss our collective accomplishments, goals, and priorities. Their first report will be submitted on March 31, 2010.
This group will include representatives of Harvard University and the City of Boston, residents of North Allston and North Brighton, the Allston and Brighton Boards of Trade, and the Allston Village and Brighton Main Streets organizations. They will set measurable and ambitious goals and I am confident that these goals will be achieved. This group has also been empowered to seek advice and participation from people throughout Harvard University and Boston City Hall, and Mayor Menino and I encourage those who are asked to enthusiastically contribute.
It will not be quick or easy to transform all of Harvard’s property in Allston and Brighton from what it is today into what we all would like it to be. At the same time, there is great potential to make the progress that can and should be made while longer-term planning is considered.
Thank you,
Drew Faust
Aggressive Harvard leasing? - We've heard that before
December 10, 2009 - Letter by Harvard President Drew Faust
Phase one will focus on the immediate need for property improvements, aggressive and effective leasing of vacant or partially vacant Harvard properties, and community engagement. As part of this commitment, Harvard will work with the Allston community to improve community vitality, with a particular focus on high impact locations, and regularly report progress on leasing.March 5, 2009 - Residents Protest Vacancies in Allston The Harvard Crimson
“We understand the concerns our neighbors and the city have expressed, which is why we’ve been so aggressive in our efforts to lease available property,” said University spokeswoman Lauren MarshallNovember 3, 2006 - Allston fear: Harvard is creating a 'ghost town' - Boston Business Journal
Harvard responded last month by saying it will try to lease out as much as 300,000 square feet for at least the next five years
"It is absolutely true that because we haven't been willing to make long-term commitments in that property, because we didn't know enough about what our master plan priorities were going to be, the vacancies have increased," said Kathy Spiegelman, Harvard's chief planner for Allston. "We're now trying to address that."
September 27, 2006 - Harvard Allston Draft Interim Property Use Plan
June 12, 1997 - In Announcing Land Purchase, Harvard Reaffirms Commitment to Allston
"Harvard plans to continue to lease the properties in the near term, aiming to encourage uses compatible with the interests of adjacent residential areas and conducive to the area's economic vitality"
More coverage of Science Complex shutdown
Slowing Expansion, Harvard Suspends Work on Tower - NYTimes.com
Harvard to Suspend Work on $1 Billion Science Center - Bloomberg.com
Harvard to Halt Construction of Science Center - WSJ.com
Science center is put on hold - The Boston Globe
Harvard’s Allston plan put on hold indefinitely - BostonHerald.com
Allston Development on Ice - Harvard Magazine
Harvard Halts Construction On Allston Project - wbur.org
Harvard to Suspend Work on $1 Billion Science Center - Bloomberg.com
Harvard to Halt Construction of Science Center - WSJ.com
Science center is put on hold - The Boston Globe
Harvard’s Allston plan put on hold indefinitely - BostonHerald.com
Allston Development on Ice - Harvard Magazine
Harvard Halts Construction On Allston Project - wbur.org
Harvard announces Science Complex halt
“As has been anticipated, the University will pause construction upon completion of the current phase, in the early spring of 2010.”
Interesting that Harvard announces this 6 hours before tonight’s BRA meeting about Charlesview, a project that Harvard is silently controlling and preventing from being as good as it can and should be.
Hope you will join us at the Honan Library tonight at 6:00 with Harvard and the BRA to discuss the new Charlesview and this important development.
Panera - You are welcome on Western Ave
Residents and business owners in Newton Centre are fighting a proposed Panera Bread in their "quaint New England village" while in Allston and Brighton we are desperate for Harvard to find some tenants like Panera Bread.
URGENT Charlesview meeting Thursday
Thursday at 6 at the Honan Library is a very important meeting about the new Charlesview and the future of Allston/Brighton. Please join us - we need your presence and voice to convince Mayor Menino that this project needs to be better!
For two years the ABNNF has joined dozens of neighbors to call on Harvard, the BRA, and Charlesview to do everything possible to make this project great. Specifically we suggested:
- a strong percentage of homeownership
- economic integration with housing for everyone
- maximizing the opportunity to begin the transformation of Western Ave
- a great connection from the neighborhood to the River
- family-sized units
- new parks in proportion to the number of housing units
- specific assurances that the new Charlesview will be well-built and maintained
- to include Charlesview in a plan for the redevelopment of the entire Brighton Mills / Holton St Corridor.
All of this is reasonable, possible, and in the best interests of our entire neighborhood.
Unfortunately, it has been incredibly difficult to gain the cooperation of the BRA, Charlesview, and Harvard. The result is the current proposal that has recently gotten WORSE as Charlesview (with the support of City Hall) is REMOVING homeownership and income diversity from the Brighton Mills site and "moving" it across Western Ave to a tower of 1 and 2 bedroom condos that may never be built as currently proposed (the Telford condos are not in phase one of the project and there is no firm date for its construction).
Let's not settle for this proposal that is so much less than it could be. Please join us tomorrow to stand up for excellence in our community!
For two years the ABNNF has joined dozens of neighbors to call on Harvard, the BRA, and Charlesview to do everything possible to make this project great. Specifically we suggested:
- a strong percentage of homeownership
- economic integration with housing for everyone
- maximizing the opportunity to begin the transformation of Western Ave
- a great connection from the neighborhood to the River
- family-sized units
- new parks in proportion to the number of housing units
- specific assurances that the new Charlesview will be well-built and maintained
- to include Charlesview in a plan for the redevelopment of the entire Brighton Mills / Holton St Corridor.
All of this is reasonable, possible, and in the best interests of our entire neighborhood.
Unfortunately, it has been incredibly difficult to gain the cooperation of the BRA, Charlesview, and Harvard. The result is the current proposal that has recently gotten WORSE as Charlesview (with the support of City Hall) is REMOVING homeownership and income diversity from the Brighton Mills site and "moving" it across Western Ave to a tower of 1 and 2 bedroom condos that may never be built as currently proposed (the Telford condos are not in phase one of the project and there is no firm date for its construction).
Let's not settle for this proposal that is so much less than it could be. Please join us tomorrow to stand up for excellence in our community!
Harvard ceramics show & sale starts tomorrow
One of Western Ave's hidden gems, this is a great chance to do some holiday shopping and see the talent and beauty that Harvard will hopefully make more visible someday in Allston.
Office for the Arts at Harvard: Holiday Show and Sale 2009
Office for the Arts at Harvard: Holiday Show and Sale 2009
Menino - "We will jumpstart Allston"
Text of today's address to the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce
"We will begin a new era of innovation and excellence in the Boston Public Schools; jumpstart stalled development projects in Allston, the South Boston Waterfront, and Downtown Crossing;"
Season's Greeting from Harvard Yard
 | After all that has happened this year, I guess it is sweet that Drew Faust still has me on her holiday card list. |  |
Why I Support Alan Khazei for Senate
After spending two great afternoons this weekend knocking on doors and making phone calls to talk with voters about what Alan Khazei can offer to Massachusetts and our country, I would like to share with you why I - along with the Boston Globe, General Wesley Clark, BlueMassGroup.com, the Worcester Telegram and Gazette, the Cape Cod Times, Max Kennedy, Vicki Strauss Kennedy, Senator Sam Nunn, Senator Harris Wofford, and over 500 citizen leaders - support Alan Khazei. (The Globe endorsement is at http://www.alanforsenate.com/globeendorsement)
* Why Alan? Alan has the potential to be a game-changing U.S. Senator, a senator who can build and lead coalitions and marshall citizen power to drive progress on the urgent issues of our day. Alan has deep experience affecting change by engaging people and changing politics, best exemplified by his co-founding of City Year. As a citizen activist he has worked with Senator Kennedy and four U.S. Presidents to pass three major pieces of service-related legislation and to successfully rally a citizen movement to fight back against former Republican leader Tom DeLay, who tried to dismantle AmeriCorps.
* How Is Alan Different From the Other Candidates? While all the Democrats share some policy positions, Alan sets himself apart from the other candidates on a number of crucial issues. According to Newsweek, Alan is "the only candidate in Massachusetts who stands fully with the President on education," in looking to offer great options to all of our children, through higher pay for teachers, differentiated pay, and expansion of successful charter schools in high-need communities. On health care, Alan is a strong supporter of a reform plan with a robust public option, and, unlike Martha Coakley and Mike Capuano, he has said he would vote for the current house or senate health care reform plans, while imperfect, because they expand coverage to 36 million Americans. And on the economy, Alan has laid out detailed plans to stimulate the economy through a comprehensive green jobs initiative, a small business hiring tax credit, a main street stimulus initiative and fully funding the Kennedy-Hatch ServeAmerica bill to create more than 250,000 service jobs.
* Can Alan Win? The answer is yes. Only one sixth of the 3.7 million eligible voters are expected to vote in this election; that means as few as 200,000 voters could win the election. Recent polls have charted Alan's rapid rise, which is a testament to our unmatched grassroots field operation. Our citizen field teams have knocked on tens of thousands of doors, with many more on the way. With the majority of voters still undecided, we absolutely can win this race.
* What Can You Do To Help? I hope you'll join me over the next few days by canvassing, emailing your friends, posting on Facebook and Twitter, or building support for him in any other way you can: http://www.alanforsenate.com/gotv.
You can find a complete list of upcoming events where you can volunteer at http://www.alanforsenate.com/page/event/search_results?orderby=date
Another way to help is to make a donation at http://alan.helpmycampaign.com/HarryMattison/donate. Alan is not accepting money from PACs, lobbyists, and special interest groups, so it has to be contributions from citizens like us who fund this campaign, put ads on TV, and spread the word. Together, we can make a difference!
I hope you will support Alan on Tuesday -- let's take this chance to elect a real reformer to represent us in the Senate.
Thanks for your consideration,
Harry
www.AlanForSenate.com
Globe keeps beating that Harvard drum
Another piece from the Globe op-ed pages about the unfortunate impact that Harvard's risky past is having today in Allston and elsewhere.
For Harvard, success isn’t measured in financial returns - The Boston Globe
For Harvard, success isn’t measured in financial returns - The Boston Globe
But Harvard is not a business. It’s a public trust - protected by nonprofit laws, free of most taxes, recipient of billions of government dollars - and its success shouldn’t be measured in its rate of return on investments.
...But the hole in the ground in Allston where a life-sciences center was supposed to be, the near-freeze on academic hiring, and the costly interest being paid on bonds to cover university expenses are all legacies of that policy.
...Yet its prime concern in crafting a new strategy should not be to maximize returns at any cost, but rather to maintain the stability necessary to grow and prosper as an institution. The larger communities of Boston and Cambridge, which depend on Harvard, would be grateful - just as they are justified now in their anger and chagrin.
Upcoming zoning hearings
5-7 Boulevard Terrace - Extend living space into the basement and attic and renovate
51 Burton Street - Extend the width of the driveway and allow parking for one additional vehicle.
139-141 Tremont - Demolish existing structure and erect a six unit townhouse
Maybe someday there will be a "Western Ave Business Association"
When Harvard eventually allows construction of the new buildings where these businesses could operate, hopefully Harvard will also help promote the businesses like they are doing in Cambridge.
Harvard University kicks off 'shop local' event in Harvard Square - Cambridge Chronicle
Harvard University kicks off 'shop local' event in Harvard Square - Cambridge Chronicle
Harvard president Drew Faust, members of the Harvard community and the Harvard Business Square Association and neighbors will ring in the holiday season at a welcome kiosk with information about shops, discounts to Harvard Square businesses, live music performed by Harvard students, hot cocoa, and more.
Fire damages Harvard Allston building
Boston Fire Dept. (BostonFire) on Twitter
4 story dorm at Harvard Business School cathes fire. $100,000 of damage & one firefighter injured.
4 story dorm at Harvard Business School cathes fire. $100,000 of damage & one firefighter injured.
Pagliuca has "momentum" to move Allston forward
Suffolk University and the Boston Herald sponsored a debate this morning between the four candidates for US Senate. For their closing statements, they were asked what they will do if not elected to the Senate.
Steve Pagliuca, at 62:55 in the linked video, says he will work to build a $3 billion complex on Harvard property in Allston. He says he has momentum from businesses to help fund it and momentum from universities to be part of it. Considering that the Science Complex Harvard started building was a $1B project, he certainly is setting his sights high.
http://www.bostonherald.com/projects/senate_debate_2009/index.bg
Brookline seeking stimulus $ to fix the 66
Nice to see our neighbor trying to improve an important part of our shared public transportation system.
Brookline seeking stimulus money to help fix the 66 - Brookline TAB
Brookline seeking stimulus money to help fix the 66 - Brookline TAB
3 of 4 Democratic Senate candidates at BC Law
Capuano, Pagliuca, and Khazei will be at BC Law school for a public forum on Monday at 5:00. Space is limited, so RSVP to bclsforum@gmail.com.
Boston College Law student organizes Democratic Candidates Forum - The Boston College Chronicle
Boston College Law student organizes Democratic Candidates Forum - The Boston College Chronicle
Another expert for diverse, integrated communities (unlike the proposed new Charlesview)
Benjamin Forman, senior research associate at MassINC, and author of “Going for Growth: Promoting Residential Reinvestment in Massachusetts Gateway Cities’’ writes in today's Boston Globe about the many reasons why our housing policies should be changed to avoid "concentrating more poor families in areas where jobs have become increasingly scarce" and that "it will be difficult to make gains on stalled efforts to close educational achievement gaps as long as we continue to concentrate poor students in urban districts".
Harvard, Charlesview, and the BRA apparently still haven't figured this out. They prefer to build a segregated new Charlesview instead of the integrated development that is possible. What a shame for the residents of Charlesview and our entire neighborhood that expediency may trump excellence.
Harvard, Charlesview, and the BRA apparently still haven't figured this out. They prefer to build a segregated new Charlesview instead of the integrated development that is possible. What a shame for the residents of Charlesview and our entire neighborhood that expediency may trump excellence.
Harvard risked to fund Allston growth
Globe front page story builds on what has previously been reported by Bloomberg, Vanity Fair, and others about the risks that Harvard took to fund projects including its planned Allston expansion.
Harvard ignored warnings about investments - The Boston Globe
Harvard ignored warnings about investments - The Boston Globe
"Under Neil Rudenstine, Harvard’s president from 1991 to 2001, cash was heavily invested in the endowment and surged from $290 million to $2 billion. Under Summers, the figure more than doubled again, according to a compilation of the data obtained by the Globe. The big project on Summers’s agenda: Harvard’s expansion across the river, into Allston."
Is my optimism justified?
Charlesview pullback seen as hopeful sign for Allston-Brighton residents - Allston/Brighton TAB
“We hope that the BRA and the mayor are acknowledging the important discussions that need to take place before the project can be approved,” said Harry Mattison, a member of the Allston-Brighton North Neighbors Forum.
Mattison hopes the Brookline Machine site can be developed alongside the Charlesview apartments, whether by TCB or a private developer. The ABNNF sees the Brookline Machine site as a potential location for additional housing and park space, according to Mattison.
“We hope that this [the delay] will be really as short as possible. And the result will be a vastly improved Charlesview that will set the right tone for subsequent development in Allston-Brighton,” said Mattison.
Thank you
Thank you to the many neighbors who generously contribute to making this a better community.
Give blood in A/B
The Red Cross is collecting blood donations next month at:
Oak Sq Y - Saturday, Dec 12 from 9-noon
Jackson Mann - Tuesday, Dec 15 from 2-7:00
More info at givelife.org
Oak Sq Y - Saturday, Dec 12 from 9-noon
Jackson Mann - Tuesday, Dec 15 from 2-7:00
More info at givelife.org
Will Menino help heal the Harvard-A/B rupture?
Thanks to Renee Loth for joining the chorus of residents who hope Mayor Menino will more forcefully intervene on behalf of the Allston/Brighton community.
Leasing vacant storefronts would be a great start. But I'd agree with Emily Rooney that many of these buildings, especially after sitting vacant for years, may not be viable. And "storefronts" are only a small fraction of the vacant land, warehouses, and commercial buildings that Harvard has been landbanking that deserve a more active future.
Regarding an accelerated spending of the Science Complex "community benefits", it should be noted that:
Leasing vacant storefronts would be a great start. But I'd agree with Emily Rooney that many of these buildings, especially after sitting vacant for years, may not be viable. And "storefronts" are only a small fraction of the vacant land, warehouses, and commercial buildings that Harvard has been landbanking that deserve a more active future.
Regarding an accelerated spending of the Science Complex "community benefits", it should be noted that:
- These benefits were intended to complement the construction of the Science Complex. The Science Complex itself would have created many benefits for this community, as some of the 2,300 direct and indirect jobs that it created would have gone to current and future A/B residents and its presence would have improved Western Ave.
Now that it appears that there will be no Science Complex in the foreseeable future, no 2,300 jobs, and no LEED Gold building improving Western Ave, whatever benefits might have made sense with the Science Complex seem inadequate as we face a future with an 8 acre concrete slab. - Harvard and the BRA have made some choices about how to spend this money that does very little to improve the quality of life for Allston/Brighton residents.
- If we were really trying to maximize the community benefit of this money, there is no way we would spend $5.7 million on the construction and maintenance of Library Park or $500,000 on a community survey.
- The $4.5 million going into the Citywide jobs and housing trust funds will only benefit Allston and Brighton if it is spent in Allston and Brighton.
Heal the town-gown ruptures: North Allston has a hole in its heart, after being seduced and abandoned by Harvard University. Harvard’s secret predations into Allston were bad enough, but its ambitious expansion plans are now on hold because of the crash in its endowment, leaving behind boarded-up businesses and rats. Menino ought to use a little of that pent-up political capital to “encourage’’ Harvard - and all the universities bent on expansion into Boston - to keep their commitments to the neighborhoods.
Menino has sent a letter to Harvard president Drew Faust, calling on her to make sure the buildings Harvard bought up “contribute to the vitality of the community.’’ But Harvard has been slow to lease the vacant storefronts. Menino should press the university to spend its promised $25 million in community benefits sooner rather than later.
Help get a vote on Mayoral term limits
While Sam Yoon only has a few weeks left on the City Council it is nice to see him continuing to work on issues that are important to him and the city.
In the past I was no fan of term limits, but since then I have come around to support them because the power of incumbency is too strong and too intimidating to many potential candidates. Let good people serve a couple terms and then open the way for new people and new ideas. If we could really get to the root of the issues that create such an imbalance between incumbents and challengers I would support that instead, but in the meantime I think term limits are the best and most feasible option that we have.
A bill to limit Boston mayors to two four-year terms is before the City Council's Government Operations Committee, but it isn't clear if or when Dorchester City Councilor Maureen Feeney who chairs that committee will bring the bill to the full council for a vote.
Please contact Councilor Feeney at (617) 635-3455 or Maureen.Feeney@cityofboston.gov and ask her to bring this bill to a vote by the full council.
Councilor Yoon's last gasp: Mayoral term limits Universal Hub
Sam Yoon seeks term limits on mayor’s seat - July 14, 2009 - BostonHerald.com
In the past I was no fan of term limits, but since then I have come around to support them because the power of incumbency is too strong and too intimidating to many potential candidates. Let good people serve a couple terms and then open the way for new people and new ideas. If we could really get to the root of the issues that create such an imbalance between incumbents and challengers I would support that instead, but in the meantime I think term limits are the best and most feasible option that we have.
A bill to limit Boston mayors to two four-year terms is before the City Council's Government Operations Committee, but it isn't clear if or when Dorchester City Councilor Maureen Feeney who chairs that committee will bring the bill to the full council for a vote.
Please contact Councilor Feeney at (617) 635-3455 or Maureen.Feeney@cityofboston.gov and ask her to bring this bill to a vote by the full council.
Councilor Yoon's last gasp: Mayoral term limits Universal Hub
Sam Yoon seeks term limits on mayor’s seat - July 14, 2009 - BostonHerald.com
Allston neighbors win round on Charlesview - The Boston Globe
Allston neighbors win round on Charlesview - The Boston Globe
Also in the news today - Harvard funds anti-rat trash bins to fight rodent scourge - BostonHerald.com
2,600 trash cans @ $100 each = A unexpected precedent for how $260,000 from Harvard will be spent in Allston
Also in the news today - Harvard funds anti-rat trash bins to fight rodent scourge - BostonHerald.com
2,600 trash cans @ $100 each = A unexpected precedent for how $260,000 from Harvard will be spent in Allston
BRA's Charlesview vote delayed
Two and a half weeks ago, the Allston Brighton North Neighbors Forum asked the BRA to postpone their Charlesview zoning vote scheduled for tomorrow. The BRA Director maybe they would, maybe they wouldn't.
Well, it turns out that they will postpone it, though the reason stated below doesn't mention ABNNF's request. Regardless of the reason, this is a positive development as it gives us more time to work towards the important and reasonable improvements that would make this a much better addition to our neighborhood.
From: Rourke, Jay
Sent: Monday, November 16, 2009 5:04 PM
Subject: [AB2006] Public Hearing - The Redevelopment of Charlesview
Allston/Brighton Community:
The BRA feels that the Charlesview redevelopment project has completed the public process and is ready for consideration by the BRA Board of Directors for approval. Nonetheless, it will be removed from tomorrow night’s agenda because there is no finalized agreement between Harvard University and the BRA concerning the future of the adjacent Brookline Machinery site. The public hearing will be rescheduled and re-advertised once a satisfactory agreement with Harvard has been achieved.
Regards,
Jay
Well, it turns out that they will postpone it, though the reason stated below doesn't mention ABNNF's request. Regardless of the reason, this is a positive development as it gives us more time to work towards the important and reasonable improvements that would make this a much better addition to our neighborhood.
From: Rourke, Jay
Sent: Monday, November 16, 2009 5:04 PM
Subject: [AB2006] Public Hearing - The Redevelopment of Charlesview
Allston/Brighton Community:
The BRA feels that the Charlesview redevelopment project has completed the public process and is ready for consideration by the BRA Board of Directors for approval. Nonetheless, it will be removed from tomorrow night’s agenda because there is no finalized agreement between Harvard University and the BRA concerning the future of the adjacent Brookline Machinery site. The public hearing will be rescheduled and re-advertised once a satisfactory agreement with Harvard has been achieved.
Regards,
Jay
Short-Term Commercial Leases Please Residents -- In the Fenway
Thanks to Mike Pahre, Mayor Menino, and Samuels and Associates for reminding us that where there is a will, there is a way.
Brighton Centered: Short-Term Commercial Leases Please Residents -- In the Fenway
Brighton Centered: Short-Term Commercial Leases Please Residents -- In the Fenway
The most prestigious park on earth
The Boston Globe considers the post-liquidation Harvard University which includes Harvard Stadium converted into the new Charlesview Apartment Complex.
What goes up then comes down (240, 260, 240)
The BRA today released another set of emails and documents in response to my numerous attempts to convince them to comply with the Public Records Law.
The BRA Board will consider the Charlesview proposal on Tuesday at 5:30 in room 900 on the 9th floor of City Hall.
It is interesting that:
The BRA Board will consider the Charlesview proposal on Tuesday at 5:30 in room 900 on the 9th floor of City Hall.
It is interesting that:
- In March, Charlesview planned with the BRA to have 240 apartments at the Brighton Mills site (page 4).
- In July, Charlesview publicly announced plans for 260 apartments at Brighton Mills.
- Today, in an email sent this afternoon from the BRA, Charlesview has "responded to public comments and reduced the number of apartments at Brighton Mills to 240."
Was Charlesview ever serious about 260 or was this all a set-up so that they could pretend to be responsive when they made this change from their previously published plans?
- The BRA has no information about how Charlesview will pay for the post-construction operations and maintenance of Charlesview, despite the BRA's own insistance in its Scoping Determination that this information be provided and Charlesview's consistent problems with maintenance and generating a sufficient revenue stream for repairs.
- The only information the BRA has about construction financing for Charlesview is from April, 2008 when we were all living with a very different economy. (page 29)
- The BRA has no information about ownership, public access, and maintenance of new parks and other supposedly public areas created by Charlesview, so we don't know if the tiny parks being planned will really be open to the public or restricted to Charlesview residents and we don't know how they will be maintained.
If this is how the BRA reviews a large development proposal, I am not impressed.
Charlesview Records Nov 12 2009Bikes not welcome in Boston?
As an avid cyclist, I applaud Boston for encouraging more people to ride bikes. Two incidents yesterday reminded me that we have a long way to go and that being bike-friendly is about more than bike lanes and bike sharing.
First, I was at the John Hancock Tower for a meeting and locked my bike to a sign post on Clarendon Street. When I got back to my bike, I found this note:
From the Hancock I biked to an appointment at Mass General Hospital and locked my bike to a sign post on the sidewalk of Blossom Street. None of the valet parking attendants who were nearby said anything as I locked my bike and entered the building.
When I returned, I found a cable lock padlocked onto my bike in addition to my U lock. The valet told me to call MGH Security, and 20 minutes later someone arrived to unlock my bike and tell me to use a bike rack on the other side of the building.
If Boston is going to create a bike-sharing program and bring large numbers of additional cyclists onto the streets of Boston (which would be great!), the City also has some work to do with major downtown property owners who could be more welcoming to people on two wheels.
First, I was at the John Hancock Tower for a meeting and locked my bike to a sign post on Clarendon Street. When I got back to my bike, I found this note:
This letter is to inform you that securing your bicycle to sign posts or trees located along our property is not permitted. The owners work very hard to make this property attractive to the Back Bay neighborhood.Now I am all for attractive property, but I disagree that bicycles are unattractive. To the contrary, I think it is great to see lots of bicycles as part of a green and healthy community. Also, if they realistically want to keep bikes in an orderly and contained location, I'd suggest some convenient bike racks. Expecting people to bring their bikes 350 yards (according to Google Maps) to a parking garage seems unrealistic.
There are bike racks located in the garage @ 100 Clarendon Street for your convenience.
Your attention to this matter would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
John Hancock Tower
Property Management
From the Hancock I biked to an appointment at Mass General Hospital and locked my bike to a sign post on the sidewalk of Blossom Street. None of the valet parking attendants who were nearby said anything as I locked my bike and entered the building.
When I returned, I found a cable lock padlocked onto my bike in addition to my U lock. The valet told me to call MGH Security, and 20 minutes later someone arrived to unlock my bike and tell me to use a bike rack on the other side of the building.
 |  |
Senate candidates disclose assets - The Boston Globe
While I'm not going to turn this blog into a www.kennedyseat.com rival (which by the way is a great place to learn more about the campaigns), an open Senate seat is a pretty big deal and this news from today I found both surprising and disappointing.
Senate candidates disclose assets - The Boston Globe
Senate candidates disclose assets - The Boston Globe
Coakley, the state attorney general, was the only candidate to report that neither she, nor her spouse, had any reportable financial asset worth more than $1,000 - a striking disclosure for one of the state’s top officeholders. While Coakley owns her home in Medford, she indicated that she did not have more than $5,000 in combined accounts from any one banking institution during the past 21 months.Coakley says she erred on disclosure - The Boston Globe
Attorney General Martha Coakley, the state’s top lawyer, acknowledged today that she improperly filled out a federal financial disclosure she submitted to the US Senate as part of her candidacy in the special election.
Charlesview inspection reports now online
Read for yourself about the management situation at Charlesview. Charlesview knows in advance when these inspections will be done. Why didn't they correct these many easily correctable violations before the inspectors arrived?
The BRA was right in their Scoping Determination to require that:
"Assurances must be clear, exact and extensively detailed in the DPIR as to how the Proposed Project, if approved, will be maintained to avoid and minimize future neglect"
But the DPIR provides no such information. Why has the BRA backed down from this requirement?
http://www.scribd.com/doc/22491496/Charlesview-HUD-Inspections
Pagliuca's Allston plan and Harvard's Allston attitude
If our federal and state tax dollars are going to directly fund construction of Harvard's Science Complex, then I think it would be appropriate to see some changes to the design and attitude driving that project.
During the review process I noted that Harvard made bogus claims about public spaces in the buildings and the general attitude that the four-building complex was for Harvard and Harvard people, not for Allston/Brighton and its residents. So Harvard told us to keep out of the Science Complex's fitness center ("sorry, too small"), keep out of the private rooftop restaurant and bar ("sorry, security threat"), keep out of the Harvard shuttle buses (a security or insurance risk) and keep our kids out of the daycare (unless your kid is one of the 15%). Harvard designed a first floor with little retail or restaurants and eliminated the small museum-type space that was in the initial plan.
Overall, Harvard chose to ignore the many opportunities to have the complex help make Western Ave more vibrant, remove town/gown barriers, and think about how this massive complex and first step in the campus expansion could also be a first step in a neighborhood renaissance.
While I still disagree with Harvard's approach, if they were building the entire complex with private funds I guess you could say "it is their money so they can do what they want with it." Well, if instead it is going to be partially funded with our money then a very different attitude would be appropriate.
Stephen Pagliuca has Allston plan - BostonHerald.com
During the review process I noted that Harvard made bogus claims about public spaces in the buildings and the general attitude that the four-building complex was for Harvard and Harvard people, not for Allston/Brighton and its residents. So Harvard told us to keep out of the Science Complex's fitness center ("sorry, too small"), keep out of the private rooftop restaurant and bar ("sorry, security threat"), keep out of the Harvard shuttle buses (a security or insurance risk) and keep our kids out of the daycare (unless your kid is one of the 15%). Harvard designed a first floor with little retail or restaurants and eliminated the small museum-type space that was in the initial plan.
Overall, Harvard chose to ignore the many opportunities to have the complex help make Western Ave more vibrant, remove town/gown barriers, and think about how this massive complex and first step in the campus expansion could also be a first step in a neighborhood renaissance.
While I still disagree with Harvard's approach, if they were building the entire complex with private funds I guess you could say "it is their money so they can do what they want with it." Well, if instead it is going to be partially funded with our money then a very different attitude would be appropriate.
Stephen Pagliuca has Allston plan - BostonHerald.com
Video of Harvard & Allston on WGBH's Greater Boston
Thanks to Emily Rooney and the Greater Boston team for this great show!
Harvard & Allston tonight on Greater Boston
Tonight on Greater Boston with Emily Rooney
Tuesday, November 10, 7pm and 12midnight
WGBH 2/HD
Repeats weekdays 5am, 11am, 11pm, WGBH World
Sundays 9:30am, WGBH 44
Or watch it On Demand on Comcast 1
Harvard's Allston Expansion
Citing the recession and it's major impact on the university's endowment, Harvard continues to re-assess it's expansion plan in Allston. A number of Allston residents are upset over stalled construction and vacant buildings in the neighborhood. Tonight Emily is joined by Brent Whelan of the Allston-Brighton North Neighbor's Forum, Kevin McCluskey of Harvard University and Michael Glavin, the deputy director of the Boston Redevelopment Authority.
Tuesday, November 10, 7pm and 12midnight
WGBH 2/HD
Repeats weekdays 5am, 11am, 11pm, WGBH World
Sundays 9:30am, WGBH 44
Or watch it On Demand on Comcast 1
Harvard's Allston Expansion
Citing the recession and it's major impact on the university's endowment, Harvard continues to re-assess it's expansion plan in Allston. A number of Allston residents are upset over stalled construction and vacant buildings in the neighborhood. Tonight Emily is joined by Brent Whelan of the Allston-Brighton North Neighbor's Forum, Kevin McCluskey of Harvard University and Michael Glavin, the deputy director of the Boston Redevelopment Authority.
Charlesview at Boston Civic Design Commission meeting tonight
Please join neighbors from Allston and Brighton to ask the Boston Civic Design Commissioners to withhold approval of the Charlesview project until the major design flaws with this proposal are resolved.
Especially if you work downtown, in Kendall Sq, or anywhere else where you aren't too far from City Hall, it would be a great help if you can spend 1/2 hour to show that we care about the future of our neighborhood and want to improve the current proposal instead of settling for this second-rate design.
Especially if you work downtown, in Kendall Sq, or anywhere else where you aren't too far from City Hall, it would be a great help if you can spend 1/2 hour to show that we care about the future of our neighborhood and want to improve the current proposal instead of settling for this second-rate design.
5:20 - 5:40 Report from Design Committee: Charlesview Relocation Project
Piemonte Room, 5th floor, Boston City Hall
Here is one example of how the current proposal could be much better. Here are 7 proposed buildings each with a thin strip (probably 5-10 feet) of grass on the sides. The block contains 24 units (18 condos and 6 apartments). Instead of backyards for these 24 units, the space behind the buildings is a 14 car parking lot.
Maybe some people would be OK with a parking lot instead of a backyard, but this sure would be nicer if the parking could be added to the proposed 260-car underground garage or done with a combination of driveways, garages, and on-street parking.
Would the real Charlesview please stand up?
Each HUD inspection report summarizes the "systemic deficiencies" found during the inspection. From what has been said in various forums, one might think that Charlesview needs extensive and expensive repairs. For example, in the DPIR, Charlesview states:
"Now nearly 40 years old, the existing Charlesview property has reached the end of its useful life and requires redevelopment to continue its legacy as a critical housing source for North Allston Brighton."
But the HUD reports tell a very different story - it is almost as if there are two different Charlesviews:
- There is the Charlesview that we hear about from Charlesview's Board, The Community Builders, the BRA, and our elected officials. This Charlesview is about to crumble to the ground and must be evacuated ASAP.
- There is the Charlesview that is inspected every couple years by HUD with a long list of "ordinary" problems but in need of almost no major repairs.
As the host used to ask on To Tell The Truth...
"Would the real Charlesview please stand up?"
The reports categorize systemic deficiencies in two ways:
- Capital items that generally require large cash outlays (such as new roofs and new appliances)
- Ordinary items are repairs that require smaller cash outlays (such as light fixtures, fire extinguishers, and smoke detectors)
| Date | Capital Items | Ordinary Items |
|---|---|---|
| March 2002 | Bathroom sinks damaged or missing | Obstructed or missing accessibility routes Broken/missing/cracked window panes Auxiliary lighting inoperable Damaged door hardware/locks |
| January 2004 | Bathroom sinks damaged or missing | Auxiliary lighting inoperable Damaged door frames Electrical covers missing Damaged door surfaces Damaged door hardware/locks |
| March 2005 | none | none |
| April 2008 | none | 16 unique defect types |
| August 2008 | none | Obstructed or missing accessibility routes |
So according to HUD's inspectors, Charlesview for the past 4 years hasn't needed any major capital improvements and in the past 7 years the only capital repair needed was new sinks in some bathrooms. At the same time, there are many smaller things not being done to HUD's standards including fences that need to be repaired, grass that needs to be mowed, light switches that need covers, fire exits that are blocked, walls that need to painted, etc.
This does not support the claims that Charlesview has been fundamentally flawed since its construction or that the buildings are in urgent need of replacement. These reports do indicate that basic, regular maintenance at Charlesview has been highly inconsistent during the past several years.
Thank you for helping the Zepeda family
Thanks to the many residents of Allston and Brighton who contributed to the family of the late Fredy Zepeda. Earlier this year, Mr. Zepeda was struck and killed by a car in Brighton. His wife and child needed help and financial contributions from our community have helped them to pay their daily life expenses.
Man killed in Allston this morning
Stabbing death in front of the Store24 at 157 Brighton Ave (at the intersection with Harvard Ave) early on Sunday morning.
BPDNews.com - News Updates from the Boston Police Department
BPDNews.com - News Updates from the Boston Police Department
HUD releases Charlesview inspection reports
We have heard a lot of vague statements over the years about the condition of the Charlesview Apartments. Now, thanks to HUD and a FOIA request, we have public information from the past several years from independent, certified inspectors. The format and definitions of the reports are described at http://www.disasterhousing.gov/offices/reac/products/pass/pass_isrpt.cfm.
When I am near a scanner I will upload the full reports, but in the meantime, here are the number of Health and Safety deductions made during each report (higher numbers indicate more problems).
The April 2008 report gave Charlesview an overall score of 50 out of 100, and HUD wrote that "the inspection has been referred to the Departmental Enforcement Center for enforcement action... Properties scoring below 60 have physical deficiencies that do not meet the contractual obligations to HUD. Residents of such properties are not receiving the quality of housing to which they are entitled."
However, four months later Charlesview had been able to correct almost all of these problems. This contradicts the oft-repeated statements that the condition of Charlesview is so intolerable and the problems there are too difficult to fix.
When I am near a scanner I will upload the full reports, but in the meantime, here are the number of Health and Safety deductions made during each report (higher numbers indicate more problems).
| March 2002 | 4.1 |
| January 2004 | 17.0 |
| March 2005 | 6.0 |
| April 2008 | 24.2 |
| August 2008 | 7.3 |
The April 2008 report gave Charlesview an overall score of 50 out of 100, and HUD wrote that "the inspection has been referred to the Departmental Enforcement Center for enforcement action... Properties scoring below 60 have physical deficiencies that do not meet the contractual obligations to HUD. Residents of such properties are not receiving the quality of housing to which they are entitled."
However, four months later Charlesview had been able to correct almost all of these problems. This contradicts the oft-repeated statements that the condition of Charlesview is so intolerable and the problems there are too difficult to fix.
Enrichment Showcase at the Gardner
One of the many great programs at the Gardner Pilot Academy in Allston is the Friday Enrichment program. This program brings a wide range of artists and other adults from the community into the school on Friday mornings to do creative, fun, and educational activities with the kids. This morning was one of the "showcases" that the school has a few times a year when the students perform and show their work to their classmates and families.
Do PILOT & Allston/Brighton negotiations conflict?
This story doesn't mention Harvard, but obviously if the Mayor and City Council are negotiating with Harvard and other non-profits about PILOT payments, I wonder how this impacts the negotiating that many of us think the Mayor and City Council should be doing with Harvard to allow more land in the Holton St Corridor to be developed for Charlesview and other developments.
More PILOT money is of course good for the entire City, while ending Harvard's landbanking would be good for Allston and Brighton. So when the Mayor's people and Harvard's people are discussing these issues, which one comes first?
Murphy says PILOT deal is on its way Jamaica Plain Gazette
More PILOT money is of course good for the entire City, while ending Harvard's landbanking would be good for Allston and Brighton. So when the Mayor's people and Harvard's people are discussing these issues, which one comes first?
Murphy says PILOT deal is on its way Jamaica Plain Gazette
"But the government and institutions are negotiating well now, Murphy said, describing positive progress. Because the city cannot legally require any PILOT deals, the agreement will rely on goodwill and political pressure. "
Smith Asks BRA For Some Respect
Allston resident Karen Smith has a Letter to the Editor in today's Boston Herald
Allston dissed - BostonHerald.com
Allston dissed - BostonHerald.com
Rats Rats Rats
The Phoenix takes an in-depth look at the Boston rat rampage in Allston and across the City.
DiCara hits Harvard for landbanking
Nice to see another voice in support of active uses for what is now mothballed.
The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Menino Elected for Fifth Term
The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Menino Elected for Fifth Term
Former City Councilor mayoral candidate Lawrence S. DiCara ’71, who said he continues to follow Boston politics closely, described the mayor’s relationship with Harvard as “cooperative.” “They’ve been working together on Allston,” DiCara said. “That doesn’t mean that Harvard can buy up land and do nothing with it, though.”
ABNNF meets Thursday
All are welcome to join the ABNNF at 6:00 on Thursday to discuss the Charlesview relocation and Holton Street Corridor redevelopment. City Councilor Mark Ciommo will join us for this meeting which will be held in the Gardner School auditorium (30 Athol St).
Precinct by Precinct results from Nov 3
For anyone interested in the finer details of yesterday's results
http://www.scribd.com/doc/22110930/Boston-Election-Results-November-3-2009
http://www.cityofboston.gov/maps/pdfs/ward_and_precincts.pdf (small file)
http://www.cityofboston.gov/maps/pdfs/ward_and_precinct_withstreets.pdf (larger file)
Election results rolling in
The race for Mayor is still within a few percentage points, but it seems clear that Mark Ciommo is heading to a victory in his City Council race vs. Alex Selvig.
Congratulations to Mark and thank you to Alex for his willingness to challenge an incumbent - an uphill battle in any election but one that also strengthens our democracy and civic life.
http://www.cityofboston.gov/elections/currentelections/
Congratulations to Mark and thank you to Alex for his willingness to challenge an incumbent - an uphill battle in any election but one that also strengthens our democracy and civic life.
http://www.cityofboston.gov/elections/currentelections/
Leadership Without a Secret Code
It is a surprising title for this interview, considering the intense secrecy with which Harvard's guards its plans here in Allston and "communicate, communicate, communicate” is certainly not the mantra of the Allston Development Group.
The morsel that seems most consistent with Harvard's situation in Allston is this idea that Faust got from HBS Prof Michael Porter - “Strategy is what you choose not to do.”
Corner Office - Drew Gilpin Faust - Leadership Without a Secret Code - NYTimes.com
The morsel that seems most consistent with Harvard's situation in Allston is this idea that Faust got from HBS Prof Michael Porter - “Strategy is what you choose not to do.”
Corner Office - Drew Gilpin Faust - Leadership Without a Secret Code - NYTimes.com
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