More details at https://twitter.com/BostonFire
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Meet Candidates for Mayor and City Council At-Large
The Boston Ward 21 Democratic Committee invites you to meet with candidates for mayor and city council at-large:
Candidates Nights
Monday, July 15 and Thursday, July 18
6:00-8:30pm
At West End House Boys & Girls Club
105 Allston Street, Allston (www.westendhouse.org)
More details and a list of scheduled candidates will be posted at www.bostonward21.org when the events get closer.
Harvard-Allston Task Force Raises Concerns About Community Benefits Conversation
Gerald Autler, senior project manager at the Boston Redevelopment Authority, said on Monday that the task force would have a 60-day period to provide feedback on the master plan [that Harvard will file in July]. But task force member and Allston resident Bruce E. Houghton railed against Harvard and the BRA for expecting the task force to identify the benefits they want included in the plan in what he described as an unreasonably short period of time.
“What is expected of this community and what’s being placed on it...is inappropriate and impossible,” Houghton said. “What’s truly inappropriate is the fact that there’s an expectation on behalf of BRA that this community should put into place in four months a community benefit package that might last as long as 10 years.”
Send your input to the City of Boston for its Open Space Plan 2015-2021
Public Input | City of Boston
The City of Boston Parks and Recreation Department is reaching out to the public and to users of the parks, playgrounds, and other open spaces in the city, whether or not you reside in Boston, to learn about how they use open space in Boston and how we can improve their experience.
http://www.cityofboston.gov/parks/about/questionnaire.asp
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The City of Boston Parks and Recreation Department is reaching out to the public and to users of the parks, playgrounds, and other open spaces in the city, whether or not you reside in Boston, to learn about how they use open space in Boston and how we can improve their experience.
http://www.cityofboston.gov/parks/about/questionnaire.asp
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Impending A/B North Development & Transportation
There's a lot coming our way in the next several years. What did I miss? What are your thoughts on these projects?
Harvard Jams Western Ave
11:00 on Saturday morning and Western Ave is jammed in both directions from North Harvard Street to the Western Ave Bridge. Way too many cars per minute are trying to enter the Harvard Business School parking lot.
State plans 2-year, $10m project to rebuild Cambridge Street bridge over I-90 in Allston - Allston Brighton - Your Town - Boston.com
State plans 2-year, $10m project to rebuild Cambridge Street bridge over I-90 in Allston - Allston Brighton - Your Town - Boston.com:
Construction is expected to begin this fall, though the exact timeline has not been finalized
Construction is expected to begin this fall, though the exact timeline has not been finalized
Once complete, the bridge will include a 10-foot-wide sidewalk on one side, nine-foot-wide sidewalk on the other side and six-foot-wide bike lanes abutting each sidewalk, officials said.
Between the bike and traffic lanes will be a three-foot-wide buffer. Each of the four total traffic lanes will be 11 feet wide. A six-foot-wide median will divide the bridge’s travel lanes.
Instead of Central America, What about Allston?
A Harvard professor came to Allston to talk about the importance of the arts in Bogota, Colombia during the 1990's. Meanwhile, Harvard has shelved the plans it had a few years ago for Western Ave and other parts of North Allston to become an arts mecca. Questions about the role of public art in Harvard's $150 million, 325 unit apartment building that will start construction later this year get nothing better than weak responses like:
Sommer Highlights Cultural Agency at Allston Ed Portal | News | The Harvard Crimson:
The proponent will work with Harvard, the City and the community to explore how public art can be incorporated into the project.So kudos to Mr. Stenson for suggesting that Harvard think locally about the importance of the arts.
Sommer Highlights Cultural Agency at Allston Ed Portal | News | The Harvard Crimson:
"John J. Stenson Jr. of Brighton asked the first question after [Harvard Romance Languages and Literatures Professor Doris] Sommer wrapped up her lecture, demanding to see funding from the University to promote theater in Allston.
“Never mind about Bogotá. What about right here?” Stenson said. “Put a play on here. That’s your challenge.”"
Harvard faculty feeling like Allston residents
There is plenty of decisions about Harvard's Allston expansion that should be driven by purely internal Harvard decision-making. I think there are also plenty of issues relating to the public realm along Western Av & North Harvard St and the too many blighted Harvard properties all over our neighborhood where some the community should have a role in the decision-making process.
You can replace "faculty" with "Allston community" in this article and it all sounds pretty familiar
After New Email Search Revelations, Faculty Question Balance of Power | The Harvard Crimson:
"...faculty have not been consulted on a range of important decisions over the last year pertaining to the Government 1310 cheating case, the relocation of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences to Allston"
"history professor Lisa M. McGirr said that the monthly meetings have become something of a “spectator sport” in which faculty watch as administrators break news about their decisions."
"Asani agreed, saying he believes the Faculty Council—and Faculty meetings more broadly—are too closely controlled by administrators for professors to have a free and full discussion."
I wonder what this “multimodal transportation solution” will be
As SEAS Moves to Allston, Administrators Contemplate Schedule Changes | The Harvard Crimson:
"Computer science professor David C. Parkes, a co-chair of the Transportation Task Force alongside Executive Vice President Katie N. Lapp, wrote in an email that while the task force has not yet convened, it will eventually investigate a “multimodal transportation solution” to connect Cambridge and Allston."
"Computer science professor David C. Parkes, a co-chair of the Transportation Task Force alongside Executive Vice President Katie N. Lapp, wrote in an email that while the task force has not yet convened, it will eventually investigate a “multimodal transportation solution” to connect Cambridge and Allston."
Lesley University may propose renovating Smith Field in Allston in exchange for use of the site
Lesley University is gauging community interest in having it renovate the city-owned Smith Field in Allston and, in exchange, have permission to use the space for Lesley athletics
“Lesley’s main goal is to provide the best overall experience for our student-athletes, and state-of-the art facilities are key,” [Amanda McGregor, spokeswoman for the university] said.
Harvard-Allston Task Force Criticizes University for Not Providing Benefits | The Harvard Crimson
Harvard-Allston Task Force Criticizes University for Not Providing Benefits | The Harvard Crimson:
“[Barry’s Corner] is going to rise out of the Earth, and we’re going to have nothing to show for it,” task force chair and Allston resident Ray V. Mellone said.
After some discussion, task force members rallied around the idea of tying improvements of Smith Field, a park adjacent to the site of the planned development, to the development of Barry’s Corner.
BRA Chief Planner Kairos Shen said that the agency would explore language that could require a commitment from Harvard to renovate the field in order to receive BRA approval for the Barry’s Corner development. Shen and task force members agreed to try to come up with a provision by the time the project faces evaluation from the BRA.
SEAS Affiliates Discuss Allston Campus Plans
SEAS Affiliates Discuss Allston Campus Plans | The Harvard Crimson:
"[Executive Dean for Administration G. Timothy] Bowman also said that he hoped the SEAS Allston campus would develop into a “college student hub” for students coming from the iLab and Harvard’s athletic facilities.
“We want it to be a destination that students, faculty, and the University community want to go to, even if they don’t have a class,” Bowman said."I wonder what Dean Bowman thinks would make Western Ave a "college student hub"? Will the Allston community also want to go (or be invited to go) there? The previous plans for the Science Complex had Harvard-only amenities like a private rooftop restaurant & bar.
City proposes blocking Harvard from opening new buildings in Allston if school fails to meet terms for development
City proposes blocking Harvard from opening new buildings in Allston if school fails to meet terms for development - Allston Brighton - Your Town - Boston.com:
"The proposal would require Harvard to:
Start a community planning process this April to build its promised Rena Park and begin the first phase of the park’s construction in 2014; develop a comprehensive master plan for campus services, which would clarify that the 28 Travis St. relocation project is temporary; implement that campus services master plan within one year after the university opens its proposed science complex in Allston, which is scheduled to open in about five years; and to not run vehicular service between midnight and 6 a.m. at the 28 Travis St. site, Shen said.
If Harvard fails to comply with those conditions, the city would withhold occupancy permits for new buildings the university builds until the school is in compliance."
"The proposal would require Harvard to:
Start a community planning process this April to build its promised Rena Park and begin the first phase of the park’s construction in 2014; develop a comprehensive master plan for campus services, which would clarify that the 28 Travis St. relocation project is temporary; implement that campus services master plan within one year after the university opens its proposed science complex in Allston, which is scheduled to open in about five years; and to not run vehicular service between midnight and 6 a.m. at the 28 Travis St. site, Shen said.
If Harvard fails to comply with those conditions, the city would withhold occupancy permits for new buildings the university builds until the school is in compliance."
The A/B Kid Exodus
John Keith has done some nice work summarizing Boston's population changes by ages: Boston population changes over past two decades | Universal Hub
Here's the spreadsheet with data for all neighborhoods and the A/B data
Here's how the # of kids 14 & under has steadily dropped in the last 20 years
1990: 5,939 (8.5% of total)
2000: 5,536 (7.9% of total)
2010: 4,583 (6.1% of total)
More than 1/2 of Allston and Brighton residents are in their 20s
Here's the spreadsheet with data for all neighborhoods and the A/B data
Here's how the # of kids 14 & under has steadily dropped in the last 20 years
1990: 5,939 (8.5% of total)
2000: 5,536 (7.9% of total)
2010: 4,583 (6.1% of total)
More than 1/2 of Allston and Brighton residents are in their 20s
Huge Russian Parties coming to Linden Street?
The "Russian Benevolent Society" will be at the Zoning Board of Appeal on March 26 seeking to increase their capacity for a "restaurant / lounge with live entertainment" to 450 people with outdoor seating for 90.
http://www.cityofboston.gov/ons/pdfs/allstonbright.pdf
In 2011 they got permission to serve dinner and liquor Thursday through Sunday night. (Under the society's old club license, it could only open to serve meals and liquors for functions.) \
http://www.universalhub.com/2011/russian-social-club-allston-gets-permission-turn-p
In 2012 they got permission to serve dinner seven days a week. (The society, originally set up as a private club, had been open to the public Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m)
http://www.universalhub.com/2012/russians-would-much-rather-drink-liquor-food-lawye
I wonder what they will do in 2014?
http://www.cityofboston.gov/ons/pdfs/allstonbright.pdf
In 2011 they got permission to serve dinner and liquor Thursday through Sunday night. (Under the society's old club license, it could only open to serve meals and liquors for functions.) \
http://www.universalhub.com/2011/russian-social-club-allston-gets-permission-turn-p
In 2012 they got permission to serve dinner seven days a week. (The society, originally set up as a private club, had been open to the public Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m)
http://www.universalhub.com/2012/russians-would-much-rather-drink-liquor-food-lawye
I wonder what they will do in 2014?
How Harvard is reneging on its Rena Park promise
A concerned reader sent me an email this afternoon because he and his friends are confused by this excerpt from the "SLAM Brings Allston Debate into Harvard Yard" story in today's Harvard Crimson:
merriam-webster.com defines "renege" as "to go back on a promise or commitment".
Take a look at Rena Park near North Harvard Street in these Harvard plans from 2007 and 2008:
Here is Harvard's 2012 plan (which does not include the phrase "Rena Park")
Notice how during the last 4 years Harvard lost the big piece of Rena Park near North Harvard Street, the Honan Library, and Mellone Park? There is a little tail of "Harvard Campus Landscape" extending to the east, but no "Public Open Space" where Harvard promised the largest open space in Rena Park.
"Mattison said that Harvard had promised to place a three-acre park where Barry’s Corner meets the residential community, but that the University is now reneging on that promise."Hopefully this makes it more clear...
merriam-webster.com defines "renege" as "to go back on a promise or commitment".
Take a look at Rena Park near North Harvard Street in these Harvard plans from 2007 and 2008:
| 2008 Science Complex Cooperation Agreement (page 87) | 2007 Harvard Draft Master Plan (page 46) |
|---|---|
 | "Adjacent to the Allston library on North Harvard Street will be the largest open space in Rena Park"  |
Here is Harvard's 2012 plan (which does not include the phrase "Rena Park")
| 2012 Harvard Draft Master Plan | |
|---|---|
| Barry's Corner 10 year plan (page 36) | Long-Term Open Space Plan (page B-7) |
 |  |
Notice how during the last 4 years Harvard lost the big piece of Rena Park near North Harvard Street, the Honan Library, and Mellone Park? There is a little tail of "Harvard Campus Landscape" extending to the east, but no "Public Open Space" where Harvard promised the largest open space in Rena Park.
Program for Our 2013 Policy Conference » Progressive Massachusetts
Check this out if you are interested in discussing health care, education, economic policy and more with some of the most influential and knowledgeable people around
Program for Our 2013 Policy Conference » Progressive Massachusetts:
Progressive Mass Policy Conference
March 24 – 8AM-5PM - Newton, MA
Lasell College - Nearest T-Stop: Riverside/Green Line
Program for Our 2013 Policy Conference » Progressive Massachusetts:
Progressive Mass Policy Conference
March 24 – 8AM-5PM - Newton, MA
Lasell College - Nearest T-Stop: Riverside/Green Line
SLAM Brings Allston Debate into Harvard Yard | The Harvard Crimson
SLAM Brings Allston Debate into Harvard Yard | The Harvard Crimson:
"Harvard’s Student Labor Action Movement brought the Allston debate into Harvard Yard Wednesday in a community forum led by a panel of Harvard-Allston Task Force members and community development experts.
Harvard undergraduates, staff, Allston residents, and members of the broader community gathered at the Phillips Brooks House to discuss Harvard’s role and responsibilities in Allston.
No representatives from the Harvard administration attended the event."
Allston residents to back Harvard project if university agrees to several demands - Allston Brighton - Your Town - Boston.com
Allston residents to back Harvard project if university agrees to several demands -Boston.com:
"The Harvard Allston Task Force voted unanimously at a meeting Tuesday night to recommend that the city’s redevelopment authority approve the relocation proposal, but only if the conditions are met.
The task force drafted a resolution asking Harvard to:
- include in its master plan locations where all of its campus support services can be housed and that those locations not be near residential streets;
- that the services that would be relocated to 28 Travis St. are moved out of that location before the university opens its proposed science complex in Allston, which is scheduled for completion about five years from now; and
- that schedules are set for construction of the proposed Rena Park and for the North Allston / North Brighton Community Master Plan that would have the park and the community planning process completed before the science complex opens."
Allston's No Parking Apartment Building Is a Great But Terrible Idea
Allston's No Parking Apartment Building Is a Great But Terrible Idea: "Boston’s cheap street parking results in a bad case of trickle-down parking economics: Since the city charges nothing for resident spaces, you can justify having a car because it’s free to keep it on the street—even if your building doesn’t provide a space.
If, however, the city started charging a fair and accurate price for street parking, then we’d see far fewer cars on the street, because it’d be far more expensive to keep them here. In that case, Mariscal’s building would make total sense: If you really want to have a car, pay up. Our streets aren’t free."
'via Blog this'
If, however, the city started charging a fair and accurate price for street parking, then we’d see far fewer cars on the street, because it’d be far more expensive to keep them here. In that case, Mariscal’s building would make total sense: If you really want to have a car, pay up. Our streets aren’t free."
'via Blog this'
Swissbäkers bakery, cafe to open Allston on 2/28
Swissbäkers bakery, cafe to open Allston location this month - Allston Brighton - Your Town - Boston.com: "Grand opening ceremonies are set for Thursday, Feb. 28 from 5 to 8 p.m., store owners announced this week."
'via Blog this'
'via Blog this'
From Railroad to Recreation or just more landbanking?
There is a timely story in today's NY Times (BeltLine Provides New Life to Railroad Tracks in Atlanta) about converting railroads into recreational opportunities.
Finding new uses for old railroads hasn't always done much for walkers, joggers, and cyclists in Allston and Brighton, as when the space formerly used by the railroad tracks between Lincoln Street and the Mass Pike were used to widen the Pike by adding a westbound breakdown lane.
As CSX winds down its operations at the Beacon Yards facility and Romar leaves as well, it is a big open question as to what will happen on this land in the next several years. Ten years ago Harvard spent $200 million to purchase the rail yards and land under the Mass Pike. Since then, the Harvard story has been that Harvard had no access to the land while it was being actively used.
Now, the days of its active use are dwindling (Houghton Chemical and the MBTA Commuter Rail continue, using just a small fraction of the land shown in the photo above).
Harvard's new story seems to be that this land is too contaminated to even contemplate using. So I took a look at "Understanding Environmental Contaminants - Lessons Learned and Guidance to Keep Your Rail-Trail Project on Track" from the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy. The process they describe is not rocket science. For example:
As the CSX trains leave Allston for the last time it will be the end of an era that goes back to at least 1899 when this map was made. It will be interesting to see how quickly the cleanup starts so the next chapter can begin.
Finding new uses for old railroads hasn't always done much for walkers, joggers, and cyclists in Allston and Brighton, as when the space formerly used by the railroad tracks between Lincoln Street and the Mass Pike were used to widen the Pike by adding a westbound breakdown lane.
Now, the days of its active use are dwindling (Houghton Chemical and the MBTA Commuter Rail continue, using just a small fraction of the land shown in the photo above).
Harvard's new story seems to be that this land is too contaminated to even contemplate using. So I took a look at "Understanding Environmental Contaminants - Lessons Learned and Guidance to Keep Your Rail-Trail Project on Track" from the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy. The process they describe is not rocket science. For example:
Hard surfaces, such as asphalt and cement, may be used to "cap" or cover and isolate contaminated soil. Likewise, the use of crushed stone with appropriate depth may also be used.The report cites an example from Benzie, Michigan where soil contaminated with arsenic and benzopyrene was capped and/or removed and replaced with crushed limestone. The total cost for clean up, engineering, and trail surface (crushed stone) for a 3.3 mile section of the trail was $750,000.
As the CSX trains leave Allston for the last time it will be the end of an era that goes back to at least 1899 when this map was made. It will be interesting to see how quickly the cleanup starts so the next chapter can begin.
ALLSTON-BRIGHTON ON THE MOVE: Boston’s Most Transportation Changing Neighborhood
If you have any interest in transportation, housing, planning, and development in Allston and Brighton (which is probably just about everyone who is reading this blog), I highly recommend this in-depth article by Steve Miller.
ALLSTON-BRIGHTON ON THE MOVE: Boston’s Most Transportation Changing Neighborhood | Steve Miller's Blog:
ALLSTON-BRIGHTON ON THE MOVE: Boston’s Most Transportation Changing Neighborhood | Steve Miller's Blog:
Lower Allston Crime Watch meeting - Feb 25
BPD District 14 Officer Frank Hughes is holding a Crime Watch Meeting to discuss ways
we can work together
to make our neighborhood
a better place.
When: Monday, February 25th , 6:30pm-7:30pm
Where: Brian Honan Library
When: Monday, February 25th , 6:30pm-7:30pm
Where: Brian Honan Library
Harvard to soon have more vacant Allston land
Per a CSX employee on RR.net: http://www.railroad.net/forums/viewt...t=660#p1142961
Beacon Park freight yard officially closing next Friday, Feb. 15.
Engine house yard along Storrow will remain open until at least April.
Massachusetts Democratic Party Caucuses coming soon
Democrats in Allston and Brighton will be holding caucuses to elect delegates to the Massachusetts Democratic Party’s 2013 Platform Convention. All registered Democrats are eligible to participate.
Massachusetts Democratic Party » 2013 Caucuses:
Ward 21 3/2/2013 11:00 AM Brighton Library 40 Academy Hill Rd, Brighton, MA 02135
Lauren 617-939-9921 lauren@bostonward21.org
Ward 22 2/9/2013 1:00 p.m. Veronica B. Smith Senior Center Auditorium 20 Chestnut Hill Avenue, Brighton, MA 02135
Millie Hollum-McLaughlin 617-254-5853 milliemclaughlin@hotmail.com
You can find out your ward # at http://www.wheredoivotema.com/bal/MyElectionInfo.aspx
Nice to see that Harvard can cooperate with the City when it wants to
This educational connection to the Harvard campus being announced by the Mayor tonight is great. Physical connections to the campus are also important, which is why it is too bad that Harvard continues to cling to its proposal for a parking lot and truck maintenance facility on Travis Street.
In speech, Menino to announce initiative with Harvard, MIT - News - Boston.com:
In speech, Menino to announce initiative with Harvard, MIT - News - Boston.com:
Two world-renowned universities have been tethered to Boston for almost a century by trains on the Red Line. Soon, the city may be able to boast a more reliable connection to the main campuses of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
The City of Boston plans to launch a partnership with the two institutions through the experimental online initiative edX, which offers free courses to anyone with Internet access. In his State of the City address Tuesday night, Mayor Thomas M. Menino will announce an effort to bring edX to Boston’s community centers, according to his staff.
Residents frustrated by Harvard expansion in Allston | Harvard Magazine
Residents frustrated by Harvard expansion in Allston, architect Behnisch rehired | Harvard Magazine:
"RESIDENTS AT A Harvard Allston Task force community meeting Wednesday night expressed frustration and concern over the University’s new Institutional Master Plan Notification Form (IMPNF), filed in October. They called for Harvard to honor existing commitments to community projects before breaking ground on its proposed project at Barry’s Corner, a mixed-use, residential-and-retail complex located at the intersection of North Harvard Street and Western Avenue in the North Allston neighborhood."
Legislative update discussion with our state senators and representatives - January 31
- Join the Ward 21 Democratic Committee for a Legislative Update Discussion
with Senator Will Brownsberger, Senator Sal DiDomenico, Representative Mike Moran and Representative Kevin Honan.
Thursday, January 31
6:00pm-7:45pm (committee business at 6, then the legislative update from 6:15 on)
Brighton Library meeting room (40 Academy Hill Road)
This is a unique opportunity to meet with all of Allston and Brighton's state legislators. Come to hear what issues they are working on and share your thoughts!
Learn Pottery for $187, $195, or $720
Waiting in the lobby of the Honan Library yesterday to meet a friend, I noticed the course catalogs for adult ed programs in Brookline and Newton.
I found these interesting because Harvard is moving its Ceramics program to 224 Western Ave (the former Verizon building, next door to the Dunkin Donuts) from its current location in the basement of a warehouse next to Smith Field.
Moving Harvard Ceramics closer to the Allston community seems like a great opportunity for it to become more a part of the Allston community while continuing and expanding its institutional programs.
In Brookline, you can take an 8-session course for $187
In Newton, you can take an 8-session course for $195
Want to take a 12-session course at the Harvard studio in Allston? $720
I found these interesting because Harvard is moving its Ceramics program to 224 Western Ave (the former Verizon building, next door to the Dunkin Donuts) from its current location in the basement of a warehouse next to Smith Field.
Moving Harvard Ceramics closer to the Allston community seems like a great opportunity for it to become more a part of the Allston community while continuing and expanding its institutional programs.
In Brookline, you can take an 8-session course for $187
In Newton, you can take an 8-session course for $195
Want to take a 12-session course at the Harvard studio in Allston? $720
 | .jpg) |
More on Harvard's Empty Allston Warehouses
After my visit yesterday, I thought someone at Harvard might realize that someone should locks the doors of their unlocked empty warehouses. Apparently not.
Not only is the Romar building vacant, but the Michael's Moving & Storage building is too.
Not only is the Romar building vacant, but the Michael's Moving & Storage building is too.
Travis Street? Why Not Romar?
For years, Allston has hosted the most unattractive parts of Harvard's campus like this maintenance yard along the east edge of Smith Field. Now, as part of its Barry's Corner revitalization project, Harvard wants to move this stuff from one side of Barry's Corner to another.
In defending its selection of the Travis Street location, Harvard claims that "Harvard's undeveloped property to the east of the site was also considered, but would have required new construction rather than adaptive reuse of existing structures. The selected approach [Travis Street] is seen as most desirable from the perspective of functionality, sustainability, and overall neighborhood quality of life."
How can that be true when Harvard has this empty warehouse where it would have no impact on Allston's quality of life and it would leave the possibility of some truly neighborhood-friendly use on Travis Street in the future?
See more at http://allston02134.blogspot.com/2012/12/more-on-harvards-empty-allston.html
 |  |
But in Harvard's vast Allston real estate empire, how can this be the best option for the community?
| I mentioned a few months ago Romar's impending departure from Harvard property in Allston. Harvard's 10 year Master Plan proposal includes less than half of the Romar site. I went over to the Romar site this morning to see if Romar is still there. If the property is empty and not needed by Harvard for other uses in the next 10 years, it seems like a great place for Harvard's parking lots, mail room services, storage space, the University's recycling program, and maintenance and upkeep of the University's fleet of buses, vehicles, and other maintenance equipment. |
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In defending its selection of the Travis Street location, Harvard claims that "Harvard's undeveloped property to the east of the site was also considered, but would have required new construction rather than adaptive reuse of existing structures. The selected approach [Travis Street] is seen as most desirable from the perspective of functionality, sustainability, and overall neighborhood quality of life."
How can that be true when Harvard has this empty warehouse where it would have no impact on Allston's quality of life and it would leave the possibility of some truly neighborhood-friendly use on Travis Street in the future?
See more at http://allston02134.blogspot.com/2012/12/more-on-harvards-empty-allston.html
Proposed Relocation Draws Criticism from Allston Residents
Proposed Relocation Draws Criticism from Allston Residents | News | The Harvard Crimson:
“There must be some consideration about the wants and needs of the community,” said Ray V. Mellone, Task Force chair and Allston resident, who said he thought that the process was “broken.”
The Herter/Greenough Loop & Allston/Brighton River Connections - Monday @ 7pm
- Interested in how Allston and Brighton could be better connected to the Charles River?
- Do you like to walk, jog, run, or bike along the River?
- If so, please join us on Monday, December 17 to learn more about the Herter-Greenough Loop!
The plan also identifies the need for improved access from Alston and Brighton. Herb Nolan, the Deputy Director of the Solomon Foundation, recently met with DCR staff and some of our elected officials and is interested in getting more community input.
The meeting will be at 28 Mansfield St on Monday at 7pm. Pizza will be provided.
More details about the plan at http://www.solomonfoundation.org/pages/projects/her.html
Harvard makes an Allston accounting adjustment
Harvard makes an Allston accounting adjustment | Harvard Magazine Jan-Feb 2013
"Much of the land is now a blank slate, for potential academic use far in the future."
Allston master plan submitted by Harvard marks end of grandiose plans
Allston master plan submitted by Harvard in 2012 marks end of grandiose plans | Harvard Magazine Jan-Feb 2013
"Gone are the reconfigured bridges over the Charles River, the new undergraduate Houses, the 10 million square feet of building space, and the performing-arts pavilion at Barry’s Corner. In the vicinity of the latter, a parking lot is now contemplated for the construction vehicles used to build the mix of housing, retail, and athletic facilities that administrators are proposing for the land Harvard began quietly acquiring in 1988, 25 years ago."
"The net result, at least in the most public-facing locations of greatest interest to Allston residents, is a substantially more modest 10-year undertaking than contemplated even 18 months ago."
"The totality of projects planned for Allston in the next 10 years is perhaps more inward-looking than residents might have wished."
Planning across the river for a new Central Sq
Sketching a new Central Square in Cambridge - Cambridge, Massachusetts - Cambridge Chronicle & Tab:
Chief among the recommendations is an incentive for developers to build more housing of all kinds – but especially affordable and middle-income housing – in exchange for added height and density.
If approved, the new zoning would allow heights of up to 100 feet by right – up from the current allowable height of 80 feet – and 120-160 feet by a special permit on the condition that at least 20 percent of the bonus-floor area be devoted permanently to middle-income housing.
The recommendations stipulate that any heights above 80 feet along Massachusetts Avenue be devoted only to residential use and that no two adjacent building facades have a combined height of 220 feet.
Harvard selling 29 acres in Watertown
This is interesting. Harvard has a lot of property in its Allston/Brighton land-bank that doesn't seem to be doing anything to support education & research. Maybe Harvard will sell some of it and allow it to be put to better use.
University To Sell Arsenal on the Charles | News | The Harvard Crimson:
University To Sell Arsenal on the Charles | News | The Harvard Crimson:
"University spokesperson Kevin Galvin wrote that Harvard had been reviewing its off-campus property to see how it fit with the University’s goals of supporting education and research."
swissbäkers now open on Western Ave
Starting at 3pm today and closing at 7pm, you’ll be able to get swissbakers goodies at 168 Western Ave
pic.twitter.com/Mk2RTrkJ
pic.twitter.com/Mk2RTrkJ
Another Speedway meeting - Will something happen this time?
DCR hosted another event yesterday with the hopes of someday having the Speedway property at the end of Western Ave renovated and in active use. I've been going to these meetings for 6 years, and I'm not sure why there might be a happier ending this time. But if nothing else it is nice that DCR is making an effort. It still is an amazing old building but my is it in horrible condition. I can't imagine how any for-profit or non-profit could make it financially viable to pour millions & millions into making it habitable.
| Maybe this happy young couple would be interested
 |
Public comments on the Harvard IMP are online
http://www.bostonredevelopmentauthority.org/pdf/PlanningPublications/Harvard-Allston%20Harvard%20IMPNF%20Comments%20November%202012.pdf
Radcliffe Public Art Competition - A Great Idea for Harvard in Allston
The winner of this competition gets $35,000 to build the art and a $5,000 honorarium. This is a great idea and it would be lovely to see Harvard bring the same spirit and modest budget to Allston where it could help enliven Barry's Corner and many other public sites where Harvard's drab buildings and empty lots could be dramatically improved.
Radcliffe Institute Public Art Competition | Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University:
"The Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study is sponsoring an annual competition that highlights the potential of public art, and the visual arts in general, to contribute to intellectual conversations at Harvard and beyond."
The view of Harvard, from Harvard
Harvard is occasionally accused of being too insular and inward-focused, and images like this in Harvard's new Master Plan only reinforce that perception.
If Harvard really cares about the view from the Eliot House Tower in Cambridge to Baker Library on the HBS campus in Allston, that is certainly their prerogative. To me it seems like a strange priority. The tower's Celtic green cupola and gilded accents are lovely to look at, but how many people ever climb the tower to gaze across the Charles at Allston?
This is also an amazing image to submit to the Boston Redevelopment Authority and the residents of Allston/Brighton. Where are the new visual and architectural focal points that Harvard plans to build in Allston? What new view corridors does Harvard plan to build to visually connect the Allston community with the new Harvard Allston campus? Apparently there are few, if any.
The existing east-west view corridors (shown in red) of Hopedale St & Amboy St don't even connect with the blue "extended axis" lines that Harvard proposes on the currently abandoned Sears site. The extended axis that continues east from Bertram Street cuts through the middle of the Science Complex but doesn't align with much of anything that architecturally had been proposed for the Science Complex. Hopefully we will see that corridor become a reality in the Science Complex re-design. Finally, the extended axis that continues east from end of Rena Street cuts through the warehouses and truck maintenance facility that Harvard proposes to build at the intersection of Rena and Travis Street.
The back-side of Harvard's proposed basketball arena gets two black dots indicating "focal point opportunities". But it is only the back-side from my view in Allston. For Harvard, that is the front of the arena, and the view from Harvard Stadium is what matters to Harvard, not the view from Allston.
If Harvard really cares about the view from the Eliot House Tower in Cambridge to Baker Library on the HBS campus in Allston, that is certainly their prerogative. To me it seems like a strange priority. The tower's Celtic green cupola and gilded accents are lovely to look at, but how many people ever climb the tower to gaze across the Charles at Allston?
This is also an amazing image to submit to the Boston Redevelopment Authority and the residents of Allston/Brighton. Where are the new visual and architectural focal points that Harvard plans to build in Allston? What new view corridors does Harvard plan to build to visually connect the Allston community with the new Harvard Allston campus? Apparently there are few, if any.
The back-side of Harvard's proposed basketball arena gets two black dots indicating "focal point opportunities". But it is only the back-side from my view in Allston. For Harvard, that is the front of the arena, and the view from Harvard Stadium is what matters to Harvard, not the view from Allston.
Forgetting Barry’s Corner | Opinion | The Harvard Crimson
Forgetting Barry’s Corner | Opinion | The Harvard Crimson:
"...In the past 20 years, Harvard has repeatedly neglected the short- and long-term needs of Allston residents in favor of pursuing its own grand plans for expansion. Unfortunately, unfulfilled promises of community development cannot rectify a decision-making model that does not account for the needs of community residents..."
Allston cash to fund Harvard "other projects"
Harvard’s changing financial profile | Harvard Gazette:
LAPP: In Allston, the planning has shifted significantly in the last few years. It’s much more focused on a five- to 10-year time frame; it’s using our assets to generate income that will support other projects. The big project we’re building in Barry’s Corner, the multiunit market-rate rental housing and retail complex, is being done with a developer, and the long-term ground lease will be providing income to the University.
Open Studios this weekend
Enjoy the amazing creations of many local artists
November 10-11 Noon - 6pm
Allston/Brighton Open Studios
November 10-11
1 Braintree Street
119 Braintree Street
20 Rugg Road
119 Braintree Street
20 Rugg Road
Harvard's 2008 promises coming due - Rena Park
Rena Park is not "due" until the Science Complex is occupied. If Harvard keeps its new timeline and re-starts construction in 2014 it will probably be 4-5 years until it is occupied. That being said, when will the interim improvements, design and planning begin so that they will be completed in time?
Aerosmith plans concert outside their former Allston apartment building at 1325 Comm. Ave. - Allston Brighton - Your Town - Boston.com
This is so cool!
Aerosmith plans concert outside their former Allston apartment building at 1325 Comm. Ave. - Allston Brighton - Your Town - Boston.com: "Aerosmith plans to perform a concert Monday outside the Allston apartment building at 1325 Commonwealth Ave., where the band lived in during the early 1970s when they got their start.
According to radio station 97.7/107.3 WAAF, which is helping to throw the pre-Election Day party and concert, the show will begin at noon on Monday, Nov. 5.
Aerosmith plans concert outside their former Allston apartment building at 1325 Comm. Ave. - Allston Brighton - Your Town - Boston.com: "Aerosmith plans to perform a concert Monday outside the Allston apartment building at 1325 Commonwealth Ave., where the band lived in during the early 1970s when they got their start.
According to radio station 97.7/107.3 WAAF, which is helping to throw the pre-Election Day party and concert, the show will begin at noon on Monday, Nov. 5.
Good bread comes to those that wait - Swiss Bakers to open before 2013?
In March 2011, Harvard President Drew Faust told us that Harvard had recently signed a lease with the Swiss Bakers company to rent Harvard's former Volkwagen dealership on Western Ave.
Harvard VP Christine Heenan was, in retrospect, overly optimistic almost a year and a half ago when she said:
But according to this tweet, our wait is almost over and we will have fresh pretzels come New Years.
Harvard VP Christine Heenan was, in retrospect, overly optimistic almost a year and a half ago when she said:
"When we come together for the 10th Boston Shines next year, you will see Stone Hearth Pizza across the street, Swiss Bakers café and the Innovation Lab down Western Avenue."2012's Boston Shines came and went without the bakery opening, and 17 months later we are still looking forward to when Swiss Bakers arrival.
But according to this tweet, our wait is almost over and we will have fresh pretzels come New Years.
Patch interviews State Senate Candidates Brownsberger & Aylward
Click here to read about their priorities, how they will help create jobs, and more.
Boston Startup School leaving Allston & Harvard's Innovation Lab
Boston Startup School moving to Communispace HQ on Boston waterfront - Boston Business Journal:
"Seeking to be closer to startup hubs in Boston's Innovation District and Leather District, the Boston Startup School is moving this week from the Harvard Innovation Lab in Allston into the headquarters of Communispace at Atlantic Wharf in Boston,"
Harvard's 2008 promises coming due - Part 1, Shuttle Bus access
Harvard recently submitted a notification form for a new 10 year Master Plan in Allston. This makes it a good time to remember the promises that Harvard made in 2008 in the Science Complex Cooperation Agreement.
This concept of community access to the Harvard shuttle wasn't new in the 2008 Cooperation Agreement. It goes back at least to 2005 and this section on page 49 of the North Allston Strategic Framework for Planning.
This concept of community access to the Harvard shuttle wasn't new in the 2008 Cooperation Agreement. It goes back at least to 2005 and this section on page 49 of the North Allston Strategic Framework for Planning.
New Balance expands Brighton real estate empire
Adding to the New Balance - BostonHerald.com: "In separate deals within the past month, company affiliates paid $3.8 million for a North Beacon Street building that’s home to the Vocational Advancement Center and $5 million for the Grossman’s Bargain Outlet site next door."
Fern Square looking great!
Thanks to the neighbors, Mahoney's Garden Center, and the New England Grassroots Environment Fund for helping improve Collins Square (at the intersection of Holton & Franklin Streets). The new border, new plants, and improvements to the path are great, and the plants will look even better next spring!
CSX Departure Moves Closer - How will Harvard respond?
As CSX gets closer to moving its trains and operations out of Allston, the question looms regarding what Harvard will do with the land. Will Harvard let it sit empty for years like it has with the Sears slab between Windom and Cambridge Streets?
Harvard spent $75 million to buy the 91-acre CSX property back in 2003. For years we heard that Harvard couldn't touch the land because of the permanent rail easements. But when CSX is gone what will come next?
State Closes CSX Deal, Expands 'T' Service | WBJournal.com:
Harvard spent $75 million to buy the 91-acre CSX property back in 2003. For years we heard that Harvard couldn't touch the land because of the permanent rail easements. But when CSX is gone what will come next?
State Closes CSX Deal, Expands 'T' Service | WBJournal.com:
"The Worcester facility is part of CSX's plan to move operations from Allston to Westborough and Worcester by the end of the year...
CSX expects to begin moving bulk commodity operations from Allston to Westborough soon and the intermodal freight to Worcester later this year."
Harvard grows its Allston team - adds Tufts Vice Provost Newell
Vice Provost Newell to assume new position at Harvard - Tufts Daily - Tufts University
“Initially, my first early responsibilities will relate to the Allston building; they’re building a new campus in Allston,” she said. “I’ll be involved in the planning for the Allston campus and also helping them to assure that academic priorities at Harvard help to drive their fundraising objectives.”
Help plant on Everett St this weekend
Rain or shine neighbors will be planting and mulching the embankment at the corner of Everett Street and Braintree Street in Allston this Saturday and Sunday!
Location:
Across the Street from Emerald Necklace Martial Arts
95 Everett Street, Allston, MA
Ask Governor Patrick to Build the Charles River Underpasses
Please click here to voice your support for this important project
The Massachusetts State Government is considering whether to build pedestrian underpasses at the Anderson (North Harvard Street), Western Avenue, and River Street bridge intersections along the Charles River. These underpasses:
The Massachusetts State Government is considering whether to build pedestrian underpasses at the Anderson (North Harvard Street), Western Avenue, and River Street bridge intersections along the Charles River. These underpasses:
- will be much cheaper to build now vs. 75 years from now during the next bridge renovation project
- can be very easily integrated into the construction plans while the bridges are being restored next year;
- will make it safer and easier for cyclists, runners, skaters, wheelchair users, and pedestrians to enjoy the river paths, with gains to public health, recreation, and the environment; and
- will reduce congestion and traffic jams for vehicular traffic.
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| View of the Anderson Bridge from bing.com/maps |
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| Possible Anderson Bridge underpass |
New parking lot proposed for Everett Street
Now that Harvard has completed its land-swap with the Skating Club of Boston, the design is moving forward on the project to replace the never-occupied building on Lincoln Street which was described by Paul McMorrow as "the trade bait in a neighborhood-wide game of Monopoly".
Crimson: Harvard "do no harm" in Allston
Suggesting that Harvard "do as little inadvertent harm as possible" is setting a pretty meager bar for Harvard to clear. On a more ambitious note, it is nice to see the editorial hope to see "Allston flourish, both for our campus and the surrounding community".
Developing Allston | Opinion | The Harvard Crimson:
Developing Allston | Opinion | The Harvard Crimson:
"Ultimately, Harvard has no institutional obligation to prioritize the development of a community over the actualization of its private goals. However, it does have a social obligation to act as a constructive member of the community and do as little inadvertent harm as possible to Allstonians in the pursuit of its objectives."
Could Harvard cheating derail Allston expansion?
Harvard Cheating Scandal Revives Debate Over Athletics - NYTimes.com:
But last week, days after published reports implicated the co-captains of the basketball team in a widespread academic cheating scandal that may involve dozens of varsity athletes, the mood at Harvard had shifted...The news could reignite a contentious decades-old debate about athletes and academic integrity in the Ivy League...Harvard’s senior basketball co-captains, Kyle Casey and Brandyn Curry, have taken leaves of absences for the 2012-13 year, according to two Harvard officials briefed on the situation.Will this news dampen Harvard's enthusiasm to build a new basketball arena in Allston? If there is going to be a period of introspection at Harvard about the role of athletics, it would be a bit awkward to at the same time be also committing tens of millions of dollars on the construction of a new arena.
Allston Residents Call for Detailed Harvard Plans
Allston Residents Call for Detailed Plans | News | The Harvard Crimson:
Mellone worried that the proposed Barry’s Corner Complex, as it stands, will not realize the University and the community’s expressed desires to make Barry’s Corner a vibrant and lively community center.
“Right now, it seems generic,” Mellone said. “It doesn’t seem to have a kind of interest for most of the community.”
“Harvard for years talked about there being some major cultural institution or activities,” Mattison said. “We want that. If it’s a CVS, a bank, and an AT&T store, it’s not going to be a place people want to come to—it’s not going to be a particularly attractive draw.”
Mattison said that to address the current issues causing anxiety in the community, the nature of the conversations between residents and the University would have to change.
“Right now, the discussion is focused almost exclusively on the height and shape of the buildings,” he said. “If Barry’s Corner is going to become a lively vibrant place, there are a lot of other things that are much more important than how tall and how wide the buildings are.”
short story from last night's Harvard meeting
Samuels & Assoc. To Build 11-Story Mixed Use Project In Allston
Romar Trucking leaving Allston - another Harvard vacancy
Railroad draws new business to Hopedale, MA"Romar, which has been in Allston for more than 40 years, distributes business supplies, including paper, lumber, drywall and other non-hazardous materials. The company recently had its lease in Allston terminated when Harvard University acquired the land, forcing it to relocate."
Racial segregation in Boston
Red is white, blue is black, green is Asian, orange is Hispanic. Each dot is 25 people.
Allston's Cathi Campbell nominated to District Court
Patrick nominates 3 to District Court: "Governor Deval L. Patrick today announced the nomination of three attorneys to the District Court bench.
Cathleen E. Campbell and Michael L. Fabbri have been tapped for the Cambridge and Framingham courts, respectively, while Mary F. McCabe has been nominated as a circuit justice.
Campbell has been a partner at Boston’s Schofield, Campbell & Connolly since 2006, specializing in criminal and civil litigation. Prior to joining the firm, she was a sole practitioner in Allston for seven years, an Essex County assistant district attorney in for three years and an assistant general counsel in the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department for four years."
'via Blog this'
Cathleen E. Campbell and Michael L. Fabbri have been tapped for the Cambridge and Framingham courts, respectively, while Mary F. McCabe has been nominated as a circuit justice.
Campbell has been a partner at Boston’s Schofield, Campbell & Connolly since 2006, specializing in criminal and civil litigation. Prior to joining the firm, she was a sole practitioner in Allston for seven years, an Essex County assistant district attorney in for three years and an assistant general counsel in the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department for four years."
'via Blog this'
State requires New Brighton Landing Environmental Impact Report
New Brighton Landing had requested a waiver to avoid having to write this report, but the state is requiring it anyway. Read the details at: http://www.env.state.ma.us/mepa/mepacerts/2012/sc/enf/14909eenf.pdf
Economy Forces Harvard to Tighten Its Belt - WSJ.com
Here are a few excerpts from a little story in the Wall Street Journal about the choices being made by Harvard about how to spend its $$$
In 2009, as its endowment plunged by nearly 30%, Harvard University halted construction on a $1.2 billion science center across the Charles River, angering the neighborhood there by leaving behind a foundation and an idle construction site.
Harvard now says it will resume work on the project, but not until 2014 and even then at half the originally planned size, reflecting a newfound fiscal caution at the school. "The economic realities necessitate this," Kevin Casey, a Harvard spokesman, said in June at a community meeting.
"There was a definite change in mentality over there...there was a sort of sky-is-the-limit attitude but now they are taking much more cautious approach," says Gerald Autler, a senior project manager for the Boston Redevelopment Authority, a public agency which works with colleges on building projects and expansion.
Harvard isn't belt-tightening everywhere. Since 2007, its investment in financial aid to undergraduates has risen by more than 78%, which Harvard said is "significantly outpacing increases in tuition." Undergraduate tuition for the 2012-13 year climbed 3.5% to $54,496. In May, Harvard committed $30 million to edX, a collaboration with Massachusetts Institute of Technology to provide online classes to the public.
2 A/B projects at the Boston Civic Design Commission tonight
@6:00pm City Hall Room 933A BU New Balance Field
@7:00pm
Room 937A New Brighton Landing Parcels A+B (HQ complex)
Globe - Daly Field bill "is a poor example of privatization"
Brighton field does not belong in private hands - Editorials - The Boston Globe:
"Daly Field is currently operated by the state Department of Conservation and Recreation, which has neglected it amid uncertain funding. But that’s no reason to write it off. Daly Field is still a valuable state asset with great potential. Under no circumstances should hours of use be dominated by a private college. And hours devoted to public use, for that matter, shouldn’t be monopolized by residents of a single neighborhood.
State environmental groups, including the Conservation Law Foundation and the Environmental League of Massachusetts, have urged lawmakers to reject the bill, but were ignored by the House and Senate. Governor Patrick shouldn’t make the same mistake."
When would "regular" people get to use the new semi-private Daly Field?
Simmons College plan to build athletic fields in state-owned Brighton park sparks opposition - Massachusetts - The Boston Globe:
- Simmons will have full use of the field from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays from March to May and mid-August to November.
- The Brighton High football team would have practices from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. weekdays and Friday nights from mid-August to November.
- The bill also carves out time for the Allston-Brighton Little League on weekday evenings from May to July.
- Saturdays would be time-reserved and shared by Simmons College, Allston-Brighton, and abutting communities.
- Sundays would be reserved for Allston-Brighton and abutting communities.
Why have outdoor public space in Barry's Corner?
We had some discussion about outdoor public space in Barry's Corner at last night's Harvard meeting. There was talk about both where it should be (along North Harvard St, along Western Ave, at the intersection, etc) and its shape (thin and linear vs. compact) but I think the conversation should start with what types of activity the space is intended to host. What are its goals?
Sitting and eating was mentioned frequently and that is fine, but if Barry's Corner is going to be a real center of community activity then it needs to bring people together to do more than have a sandwich on a bench.
The Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema in Bellingham, WA is one example of a great looking outdoor space that brings neighbors together. On summer Saturday evenings there is live music starting at 7:30 or 8:00 followed by a family-friendly movie.
There are already other places around Boston with similar events (Free Friday Flicks at the Hatch Shell and Music & Movie Fridays at the Boston Harbor Hotel) but I don't know of anything comparable in this area.
A space with programming like this would be a great addition to our neighborhood and could be a nice place for the Harvard community, Allston residents from our existing community, and our new neighbors from the new Barry's Corner housing to all come together.
Sitting and eating was mentioned frequently and that is fine, but if Barry's Corner is going to be a real center of community activity then it needs to bring people together to do more than have a sandwich on a bench.The Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema in Bellingham, WA is one example of a great looking outdoor space that brings neighbors together. On summer Saturday evenings there is live music starting at 7:30 or 8:00 followed by a family-friendly movie.
There are already other places around Boston with similar events (Free Friday Flicks at the Hatch Shell and Music & Movie Fridays at the Boston Harbor Hotel) but I don't know of anything comparable in this area.
A space with programming like this would be a great addition to our neighborhood and could be a nice place for the Harvard community, Allston residents from our existing community, and our new neighbors from the new Barry's Corner housing to all come together.
Seemed like The Stockyard would be in Brighton forever, but maybe not
Where's the beef? Not at the Stockyard in Brighton anymore | Universal Hub:
Word is filtering in that the venerable Brighton steak place, named for the area's beefy past, has gone to that great cattle drive in the sky.
Word is filtering in that the venerable Brighton steak place, named for the area's beefy past, has gone to that great cattle drive in the sky.
Allston rail yards about to get real quiet
Harvard - Allston Campus - Page 42 - archBOSTON.org:
"Get your last photo ops of Beacon Park in action. Domestic freight transloading moves to Worcester officially on Sept. 1."
"Get your last photo ops of Beacon Park in action. Domestic freight transloading moves to Worcester officially on Sept. 1."
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