波士頓計畫發展局及交通局宣稱柯普利廣場闢出轉運空間很成功

BPDA and BTD announce findings of Copley Connect pilot program Planners intend to study permanent improvements to Dartmouth Street following successful trial

 

BOSTON - January 19, 2023 - The Boston Planning & Development Agency and Boston Transportation Department today announced the findings of the 2022 Copley Connect pilot program through the launch of a storymap that details the data collected over ten days in June. Following the success of the pilot, transportation planners with the BPDA and BTD intend to study permanent improvements to Dartmouth Street between the Boston Public Library and Copley Square Park that would improve the public realm between three of Boston's most iconic civic spaces and formally unify Copley Square.  During the pilot, the space was opened to pedestrians and closed to non-emergency vehicular traffic. This new public space maintained the existing bike lane and featured café seating, food trucks, performances, dance lessons, and library programming over the course of ten days. An emergency vehicle lane was also incorporated into the Copley Connect design for Dartmouth Street. Emergency vehicle access on Dartmouth Street will continue to be an important design consideration. The majority of the feedback following the pilot was overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors saying they would visit the area more frequently if it was made a permanently car-free space. BTD and BPDA staff engaged with approximately 1,000 people over the course of the event. Staff provided a survey on site and online for those who could not attend or did not get the chance to fill one out in person.  “We saw this summer how Copley Connect brought people together to build community and opened up biking and walking without substantially adding to traffic,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The data shows that open streets can spark economic and community vibrancy when we make them safe. We will continue to work with residents and local organizations to reimagine how our streets work for us.” “I want to thank our partners in BTD for working with us to create such a successful pilot program,” said Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison. “We look forward to continuing to work together to see how we can make this space on Dartmouth Street work best for Bostonians and all those visiting our great city going forward.” “The Copley Connect pilot showcased the creative ways that we can use the shared space of the streets to benefit more people,” said Chief of Streets Jascha Franklin-Hodge. “We appreciate the partnership of the BPDA as we continue to explore the possibilities of connecting these important spaces in the City.”  Transportation planners collected data before and during Copley Connect to understand how the pilot impacted walking, biking, and driving activity on City streets. An analysis of motor vehicle routes in the area found that travel times during the pilot were generally comparable to pre-pilot travel times, with minimal time added onto trips. The analysis found that lower traffic volumes made Dartmouth Street more comfortable for biking. These results have encouraged the BPDA and BTD to advance the Copley Connect Long-Term Design Strategy, which will identify concepts for the redesign of Dartmouth Street and identify ancillary changes to nearby streets, as needed. There are a number of factors the City and BPDA examined during the pilot initiative including the impact on the surrounding street network and the use of the open street space. During these ten days, staff engaged with the public about the pilot and how they think this space should be used moving forward. In addition to the ongoing community engagement throughout the duration of the pilot, the BPDA held a “Chat With a Planner” event on site, in which community members spoke with neighborhood planners about the initiative. In addition to this initiative, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department is in the process of making improvements to Copley Square Park, which borders Dartmouth Street. Improvements will protect and enhance existing trees, strengthen the connection between the Square and the Library, improve the existing fountain, provide lush green space for enjoyment and habitat, and create new opportunities for seating and gathering, as a way to reinvigorate the area as a community gathering space. At the January meeting of the BPDA Board of Directors on Thursday, the Board will vote on whether to authorize a request for proposals for consultant design services to study permanent improvements to the Dartmouth Street right of way.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Files $987 Million Immediate Needs Bond Bill and $400 Million Chapter 90 Bill

Healey-Driscoll Administration Files $987 Million Immediate Needs Bond Bill and $400 Million Chapter 90 Bill 

Proposal seeks critical authorization for key housing & economic development programs  

 

NORTH ADAMS - Today the Healey-Driscoll Administration filed legislation that seeks $987 million in bond authorization to preempt interruptions to core state capital programs supporting housing and economic development across the Commonwealth, and to remain competitive in the pursuit of federal grants. The administration also filed An Act Financing Improvements to Municipal Roads and Bridges, which authorizes the Commonwealth to borrow $400 million to fund improvements to municipally owned roads and bridges through Chapter 90 grants over the next two fiscal years.  

 

The Immediate Needs Bond Bill is aimed at providing funds for critical infrastructure programs that have exhausted existing resources, such as MassWorks and the Middle Mile Broadband program. Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll announced the filing on Thursday at Greylock Works in North Adams and Ludlow Mills, two projects that previously received MassWorks funding and represent the impact this program has on local communities.   

 

The bill also proposes authorization to ensure the continuity of several other ongoing housing production and preservation programs in the near-term. It includes key grant programs that support cities and towns for libraries, seaport development, housing, tourism, planning, and targeted funds for rural and small towns. Finally, the bill includes state matching funds to position the Commonwealth to take advantage of opportunities to compete for once-in-a-generation federal grant dollars in areas including climate change, advanced manufacturing, broadband access, water and sewer infrastructure, and technology.  

 

“This bill ensures that critical housing, infrastructure and community development programs have the funding needed to continue serving the people of Massachusetts. And it’s only the start of our administration’s proposed capital investments,” said Governor Maura T. Healey. “We look forward to working with our colleagues in the Legislature and other stakeholders as we develop our broader long-term strategy to increase housing production and preservation, and expand economic opportunity for all residents, which will culminate in a more comprehensive bond bill later this session.” 

 

“At a time when increasing the housing supply in the Commonwealth is a top priority, it is imperative that core capital programs that support these objectives are sufficiently funded and continue to operate,” said Lieutenant Governor Kimberley Driscoll. “This legislation will prevent disruption to grant programs that directly benefit hundreds of local communities across the state while also positioning Massachusetts to take advantage of federal grant opportunities that will multiply the impact of our resources.”  

 

The bill proposes a total of $110 million in authorization to continue to support housing creation and preservation, including affordable rental housing production and rehabilitation, public housing, climate resilient housing, and transit-oriented development. This includes additional authorization for programs that are or are nearly out of authorization but remain in high demand and are core to efforts to expand and preserve Massachusetts’ housing supply. These programs include the Housing Stabilization Fund, Housing Innovations Fund, Smart Growth Housing Trust, and Facilities Consolidation Fund. The bill also includes $48 million for the repair and modernization of public housing units that support approximately 80,000 residents across more than 230 municipalities.   

 

“This bond bill takes a purposeful and targeted approach to ensure that key capital programs that drive economic growth in Massachusetts communities and support the state’s housing stock are able to continue operating without interruption,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew J. Gorzkowicz. “We look forward to working with the Legislature to promptly pass this legislation and to collaborating further in the coming months to develop a comprehensive plan for investing in the Commonwealth’s long-term growth and success.” 

 

The proposed authorization would also provide a total of $482 million to finance economic development programs that directly benefit Massachusetts communities, with $400 million proposed for the MassWorks program. MassWorks is the largest and most flexible source of capital funds to municipalities for public infrastructure projects that support and accelerate housing production, spur community development, and create jobs throughout the Commonwealth. As one of 12 programs administered through the Community One Stop for Growth, MassWorks has funded more than 500 projects since its creation in 2011, and the authorization proposed in this legislation would enable hundreds of additional local projects to move forward. This legislation proposes additional authorization for other Community One Stop for Growth programs as well, including $34 million for the Underutilized Properties program, which improves, rehabilitates and redevelops blighted, abandoned, vacant or underutilized properties, $5 million for the Rural and Small Town Development Fund, which supports capital and community planning in low-population areas, and $1 million for Community Planning Grants. 

 

“This bill will enable us to continue critical infrastructure work necessary to facilitate economic development in all 351 cities and towns across the Commonwealth,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. “With renewed authorization for our key programs, the Healey-Driscoll Administration can continue to build housing, create jobs, and help communities thrive.” 

 

The legislation also proposes additional resources for a number of other high demand community economic development programs that will need additional authorization over the next two years. These programs spur community development, promote economic growth, and keep Massachusetts on the leading edge of innovation, and include:  
 

· $104 million for the Clean Water Trust to finance communities’ efforts to improve water infrastructure and improve local water quality; 

· $52 million for programs supporting the Commonwealth’s innovation economy, including the advanced manufacturing sector, purpose-driven research, technology development, and in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML), robotics, quantum information science, cybersecurity, communications, and digital health; 

· $9.3 million for broadband infrastructure, particularly in central and western Massachusetts communities. 

 

Lastly, the bill proposes funding that would put Massachusetts in a position to compete for new, historic levels of federal grant opportunities. Proof of available matching funds are generally required as a condition of applying for a federal award, and showing the availability of dedicated funds for this purpose dramatically strengthens the state’s application to any such federal program. The bill proposes $200 million as a state match for competitive federal grant programs, such as the CHIPS and Science Act. Similarly, the bill includes $40 million to enable the state to apply for federal broadband and digital equity initiatives. It also includes $30 million to allow the Commonwealth to compete for community broadband dollars funded at the federal level through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law). 

 

The grants provided by An Act Financing Improvements to Municipal Roads and Bridges will reach each of Massachusetts’ 351 cities and towns directly. The administration is seeking a two-year authorization to enable cities and towns sufficient time to put the funds to work given the planning and coordination required to get these critical projects completed. 

 

See the Governor’s filing letter for the bond bill here and Chapter 90 bill here. 

BPDA Board approves new housing in South Boston, Dorchester, and Allston New life science projects projected to create thousands of jobs

BOSTON - Thursday, January 19, 2023 - The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) Board of Directors this month approved four new development projects representing 2.5 million square feet (SF). The new projects will create 145 residential units, 56 of which will be designated income-restricted, and will support approximately 2,267 construction jobs and 4,614 permanent jobs. These projects will make Boston a more resilient, affordable, and equitable city.  Source: BPDA Development Review. Note: Data are subject to revision BPDA designates HYM Investment Group and My City at Peace to redevelop Parcel P3 in Roxbury The BPDA Board voted to tentatively designate HYM Investment Group, LLC and My City at Peace (HYM/MyCAP) to redevelop Parcel P3 in Roxbury. HYM and MyCAP are proposing to transform this long vacant parcel, which is currently being used as overflow parking for adjacent sites, into much needed affordable housing for the community, green spaces, life science buildings, a life science workforce training center, and a new museum and policy center. Due to its large size, proximity to public transit, major roads, and educational facilities, this site has the potential to contribute to economic development in the Nubian Square area while advancing the community’s vision for affordable housing, arts & culture, and equity. Currently, the proposal aims to redevelop this parcel into five mixed-use buildings and open space. These buildings would be a mix of lab, residential, retail, commercial, and assembly space. Consisting of approximately 7.7 acres, this is the largest undeveloped parcel in the BPDA’s real estate portfolio.  BPDA approves termination of Widett Circle Chapter 121A Project, enabling future transportation improvements The BPDA Board approved the termination of the New Boston Food Market Chapter 121A Project with Widett REIT, located in Widett Circle. Widett REIT submitted an application requesting termination of the Project for economic and legal circumstances that have eliminated any future viability of this Project. This area is currently being considered for critical transportation planning and initiatives, and this termination will allow for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to acquire the site for this essential work. BPDA moves forward with Allston Brighton Needs Assessment The BPDA Board authorized the release of a Request for Proposals to engage a consultant to assist in preparing the Allston Brighton Needs Assessment. The Needs Assessment will act as an existing conditions report and serve as the first step in creating a larger neighborhood-wide planning initiative. The demand for the Needs Assessment arose out of a request by the Harvard-Allston Task Force, and will be made financially feasible by the Harvard ERC Phase A, which was approved by the Board last July. The Needs Assessment will also supply the community with information upon which to base development mitigation recommendations for future development projects in the area. BPDA releases Copley Connect Long-Term Strategy RFP for design services The BPDA Board authorized the release of a Request for Proposals for consultant design services in relation to the Copley Connect pilot program that took place in June of 2022. During this pilot, which was done in partnership with the Boston Transportation Department (BTD), the section of Dartmouth Street between the Boston Public Library and Copley Square Park was opened to pedestrians and closed to vehicular traffic, creating one unified space in Copley Square.This new public space maintained the existing bike lane and featured café seating, food trucks, performances, block parties, outdoor yoga, dance lessons, and programming for library activities over the course of ten days. The majority of the feedback following the pilot was overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors saying they would visit the area more frequently if it was made a permanent car-free space. An analysis of motor vehicle routes in the area found that travel times during the pilot were generally comparable to pre-pilot travel times.These results have encouraged the BPDA and BTD to advance the Copley Connect Long-Term Strategy, which will identify a preferred concept for permanent improvements to Dartmouth Street and identify ancillary changes to nearby streets, as needed. BPDA to disburse $200,000 from the Harvard Allston Partnership Fund to local nonprofits The BPDA Board approved the disbursement of $200,000 to 20 local nonprofit organizations in the Allston and Brighton neighborhoods. This funding comes from the Harvard Allston Partnership Fund, which is maintained by the BPDA and funded by Harvard University. The program, established by Harvard University and the City of Boston, in collaboration with the Allston community, was created to support nonprofit organizations providing neighborhood improvement projects, cultural enrichment, and educational programming for residents living in North Allston-Brighton. The awards support everything from educational programs and enrichment activities, to engaging activities for families and local youth. Normally, $100,000 is distributed each grant cycle, but this year an additional $100,000 was funded by mitigation as a result of the December 2022 Board Approval of the fifth amendment to the Harvard Institutional Master Plan for Harvard's Allston Campus. The 2022 recipients are listed below: Allston Brighton Youth Hockey Association $20,000 Brazilian’s Women’s Group $20,000 Family Nurturing Center $20,000 West End House $20,000 The Fishing Academy $19,398 Gardner Pilot Academy $16,602 Boston String Academy $15,000 Lovin’ Spoonfuls $10,000 EXIT Galleries $7,500 Allston Brighton Food Pantry $5,000 Big Sister Association of Greater Boston $5,000 Friends of the Honan Allston Library $5,000 Oak Square YMCA at Charlesview $5,000 Open Door Soup Kitchen $5,000 Project Citizenship $5,000 West End House Boys Summer Camp $5,000 West End House Girls Camp $5,000 Winship Parent Council $5,000 Charles River Watershed Association $4,000 Allston Brighton CDC $2,500 Development Projects Phase One of former Edison Plant at 776 Summer Street moves forward Live: $8.5 million in linkage for affordable housing Work: Approximately 938 construction jobs, approximately 2,360 permanent jobs, 10 percent subsidized retail available tohttps://www.bostonplans.org/projects/development-projects/776-summer-street-phase-1 M/WBE businesses, $1.5 million in linkage for job training, four annual internships, annual job fair Connect: 5.7 acres in open space, Edison Turbine Hall preserved and used as civic space, new raised cycle track Sustain: 90 percent reduction in natural gas in new buildings, new seawall and elevated site, meets Coastal Flood Resiliency Overlay design standards Located between the marine industrial and residential areas of South Boston, this project is the first of the Master Plan for Planned Development Area No. 128, which was originally approved in January of 2021. The project will build a new transit-oriented, mixed-use development, including the rehabilitation of the Edison Turbine Halls and the construction of two new buildings, each of which are expected to include office, research and development, and retail uses. This project is consistent with the Master Plan and community’s goal to honor the industrial history of this site by preserving and adaptively reusing the early 20th century Turbine Halls. Civic and retail spaces inside the Turbine Halls, and within the fully pedestrianized Turbine Alley, will activate the historic buildings and provide much-needed community gathering space.  Not only will this development create hundreds of jobs in life sciences and construction, the project has also committed to on-site assistance, job fairs, and informational presentations to community groups to assist South Boston residents in learning about work opportunities created by this project, including for future phases. These opportunities include construction employment, permanent employment, small business contracting, and retail leasing. The project will also give first preference to South Boston small businesses and other City-or State-certified disadvantaged small businesses to lease up to 10 percent of the retail space on site. In addition, this project will also fund a $1 million scholarship endowment to provide annual scholarships to South Boston high school and college students. This project will also significantly improve the public realm and create a vibrant pedestrian environment by expanding the public street network, biking infrastructure, and improving sidewalks to increase connectivity. Phase One will also deliver 65 percent of the public open space included in the Master Plan. In support of making this a transit oriented development, bike parking will also be included on site, as well as three Bluebike stations, and an improved bus stop at Summer and East First Streets with a new bus shelter. The project will also contribute $188,893 to the Boston Transportation Department in support of the City’s bikeshare program. In addition, the project will also contribute $10,080,000 over several years to the MBTA to improve the reliability, safety and convenience of transit services serving the project area. Former WBZ station to become the site of housing and life sciences research at 1170 Soldiers Field Road Live: 85 residential units Work: Approximately 2,254 permanent jobs, space for research and development as well as retail space, approximately 1,274 construction jobs Connect: Space for public programming and events, new pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, connections to regional destinations Sustain: LEED Gold, residential space will be all electric What is now the campus of WBZ-TV in Allston will be converted into four new buildings: three life science buildings and one apartment building containing 85 units. These will be a mix of studios, one, two, and three-bedroom units. The ground floor of each life science building will also have space for cafe or retail space. The BPDA Board approved a new facility for WBZ- TV in December 2020. This is the first project approved under the Western Avenue Corridor Study and Rezoning (WACRZ), which provides zoning, urban design, and mobility frameworks to guide change in an area undergoing increased development demand. The project respects the parameters set forth in  WACRZ in programming, dimensional, and density requirements, and is in the Barry’s Corner node proposed for higher-density, mixed use development, including life science uses and housing. This project will generate $9,234,000 in linkage payments to affordable housing creation and workforce training. It will also contribute $200,000 to afterschool programming at West End House with a special focus on STEM education for under-served students, and another $200,000 to support at least two annual summer internships for Allston residents with future tenant companies. In addition, community benefits from this project include a $150,000 contribution to source public art from local neighborhood artists to be included on site, and a $150,000 contribution to the Boston Parks and Recreation Department in support of maintenance at Smith Field. This project will improve the public realm with a $1.25 million contribution to the Department of Conservation and Recreation for a new crossing at Soldiers Field Road, and will also make $650,000 in improvements to the MacDonald Avenue and Speedway Avenue intersection. This project will also provide a Bluebikes station on site, as well as bike parking.  Former Church Building at 207 E Street to be converted into Senior Housing Live: 35 senior income-restricted units, one unit for property manager Work: Approximately 31 construction jobs, on site property management and resident services space Connect: Located in close proximity to bus routes and the MBTA Red line, bicycle parking on site Sustain: Targeting LEED Silver, meets Coastal Flood Resiliency Overlay design standards What was formerly the convent for St. Augustine Church will be redeveloped into income-restricted senior housing in South Boston. This project, led by the South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation will maintain and restore the façade of the existing five-story brick building originally built in 1926, and construct a rear addition to the building. Of the 35 senior units,19 will be made available to those earning no more than 50 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI), and 16 units will be made available to those earning no more than 30 percent of the AMI. The existing trees in the front courtyard will remain on site, and the project will add new landscaping, an entryway, and a seating area. The side of the building will also include covered resident bike storage. New housing at 26 Coffey Street granted approval Live: 24 homeownership units, four income-restricted units Work: Approximately 24 construction jobs Connect: In close proximity to public transportation, car share vehicles provided on site Sustain: Meets Coastal Flood Resiliency Overlay design standards This project in Dorchester will construct a new four-story building containing 24 condominium units, four of which will be considered income-restricted. These units will be a mix of studios, and one and two-bedroom units. Some of the main points of focus for BPDA staff during review of this project were to maximize usable open space on the ground floor for residents, and improve the building’s street presence. The project falls within the Coastal Flood Resilience Overlay District and will address sea-level-rise-design flood elevation through project design. The Coffey Street development will also provide numerous community benefits including two vehicles provided for car share use on site and a $300 credit for residents to use the service, a $7,500 donation to the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, and a $7,500 donation to the Daniel Marr Boys and Girls Club. Planned Development Area (PDA) Plan Approvals (individual development projects to be approved separately at a later date) Simmons University property at 305 Brookline Avenue slated for transformative mixed-use use development Live: Approximately 388 units, 20 percent of units income-restricted, approximately $17 million in linkage towards affordable housing Work: Approximately 5,000 permanent jobs, approximately 5,000 construction jobs, diverse retail space with priority to M/WBEs, approximately $3 million in linkage towards job training Connect: Community space, workforce training hub, $8 million in public realm improvements, $4 million in transportation contributions, nearly three acres of open space Sustain: LEED Gold, all-electric residential buildings, 90 percent reduction in fossil fuel use at lab buildings, $7 million endowment for Boston Parks and Recreation Located in the Longwood Medical Area (LMA), this Planned Development Area (PDA) Development Plan will redevelop a portion of land on the Simmons University Campus into a mixed-use development spread over five buildings including residential, community space, retail, laboratory uses, office uses, and commercial uses. Within the residential space will be approximately 388 housing units, 20 percent of which will be income-restricted. This Development Plan is a critical step to enabling the construction of the Simmons University Living and Learning Center which, by fulfilling the One Simmons vision, will allow the school to house more students on campus and support the continued growth and viability of Simmons University in this neighborhood. As part of this Development Plan, the project will provide a minimum of 2.6 acres of privately owned publicly accessible open space and exterior public realm in total on the site. In addition,the Development Plan will provide a mix of active and passive programming throughout the site in partnership with Longwood Medical Area institutions and the City of Boston to activate the publicly accessible interior and exterior spaces. This plan will also reconfigure and improve existing infrastructure to create a safer and more vibrant public realm. This includes new, wider sidewalks, new bike lanes, new bus shelters, and new pedestrian crossings. The Development Plan will also contribute at least $4 million towards implementing area transportation recommendations developed through the Fenway-Kenmore Transportation Action Plan. With the approval of this PDA Development Plan, the project will contribute $7 million to the Boston Parks and Recreation Department. $1 million of that payment will go to study the shadow impacted areas of the Emerald Necklace, which will guide the development of a policy to prioritize the protection of the Emerald Necklace from development impacts. This study will be completed within approximately one year from the PDA Development Plan approval. The study and resulting policy is intended to inform the impacts of development on open spaces citywide. Another $6 million will be delivered to the Parks and Recreation Department for a maintenance endowment for the impacted area in the Emerald Necklace, following the issuance of a building permit for the first phase of the PDA.  Other community benefits stemming from the approval of this PDA include a dedicated community space on site, part of which could be used to create and outfit workforce development and life science training hub for the LMA and the Fenway in partnership with the City, in addition to thousands of permanent and construction jobs pending approval of future projects. The Development Plan will also bring much needed new retail offerings to the LMA in the form of both temporary and permanent spaces. The plan will prioritize allocating retail space to small, local M/WBEs. In addition to these projects the Board approved: An update to a previously approved project at 28-30 Geneva Street in East Boston for a change in ownership. An update to a previously approved project at 7 Channel Center for a change of use from office to lab. An amendment to the PDA was also made for lab level restriction. A two year renewal of the 2013 Institutional Master Plan for Harvard University’s campus in Allston.  ###

Committee of 100 Condemns Apparent Racially Motivated Attack Against a Chinese Student from Indiana University

 Committee of 100 Condemns Apparent Racially Motivated Attack Against a

Chinese Student from Indiana University 

New York, NY (January 19, 2023) — Committee of 100, a non-profit membership organization of prominent Chinese Americans, today issued the following statement on the recent violent attack of an 18-year-old student at Indiana University that law enforcement said was racially motivated: 

“The recent stabbing of an Indiana University student of Chinese descent is horrific, deplorable, and inexcusable. This type of hate and violence is unacceptable,” said Zhengyu Huang, President of Committee of 100. “We urge groups and organizations across all communities to join with Committee of 100 as we collectively work towards concrete actions that will address the roots of the violence and xenophobia and bring an end to these bias-motivated attacks. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Indiana University student and her family at this time.” 

BPDA designates community-recommended team to redevelop Parcel P-3 in Roxbury, proposal will create more homeownership opportunities for the community in Phase 1 of development Largest undeveloped publicly-owned parcel will also provide space for cultural organizations and life sciences job training

BOSTON - January 19, 2023 - The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) Board today voted at their January board meeting to tentatively designate HYM Investment Group, LLC and My City at Peace (HYM/MyCAP) to redevelop Parcel P-3 in Roxbury. HYM and MyCAP are proposing to transform this long vacant parcel, which is currently being used as overflow parking for adjacent sites, into much needed affordable housing for the community, green spaces, life science buildings, a life science workforce training center, and a new museum and policy center. Due to its large size, proximity to public transit, major roads, and educational facilities, this site has the potential to contribute to economic development in the Nubian Square area while advancing the community’s vision for affordable housing, arts & culture, and equity. Currently, the proposal aims to redevelop this parcel into five mixed-use buildings and open space – with affordable, for sale housing to be completed in Phase 1 of the development to ensure this urgent community need is prioritized and completed as quickly as possible. These buildings would be a mix of lab, residential, retail, commercial, and assembly space. Consisting of approximately 7.7 acres, this is the largest undeveloped parcel in the BPDA’s real estate portfolio.  “I’m glad we’re taking this first step toward a vision for P-3 being realized,” said Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison. “BPDA staff has worked diligently to pursue deep engagement with the community and prioritize their recommended vision for this land at every step of the process. The BPDA looks forward to working with HYM/MyCAP to transform Parcel P-3 into a positive addition that benefits the people of Roxbury.” “On behalf of the P-3 Roxbury Team, we are thankful to the BPDA Board of Directors, the Roxbury Strategic Master Plan Oversight Committee, the Project Review Committee and the Roxbury community for choosing our team as the developer of P-3”, said Reverend Jeffery Brown, Founder and CEO of My City at Peace and Thomas N. O’Brien, Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer of The HYM  Investment Group, LLC. “Driven by Boston and Roxbury’s next generation of Black, Brown, and Women entrepreneurs, we are committed to creating generational wealth, high-paying jobs with long-term career opportunities, and affordable housing for families of color in the Nubian Square and Greater Roxbury area.” The original RFP for this proposal was released in October of 2021, following a multi-year planning effort that began in 2016, known as PLAN: Nubian Square. The planning process was originally launched to guide the RFP process for nine publicly-owned parcels, including Parcel P-3. The resulting RFP development objectives for Parcel P-3 were driven by community feedback, including affordable housing, economic development, development without displacement, good jobs standards, diversity and inclusion, sustainability, and additional community benefits. The BPDA received two proposals in response to the RFP, and through an evaluation process with community stakeholders, determined HYM/MyCAP’s proposal was most advantageous and responsive to the community’s vision for the land. One of the main focuses of this proposal in response to the original RFP, is to create a significant amount of affordable housing without displacing current community residents. Currently, HYM/MyCAP are proposing approximately 466 units of housing total, which will be a mix of homeownership and rental. Of those units, approximately 66 percent will be considered affordable or income-restricted. The proposal intends to expedite and maximize affordable housing with a creative financing approach whereby the value from life science uses will cross-subsidize affordable housing, among other community benefits. The developers also plan to provide resources to prepare residents for buying a home in order to increase the number of families able to attain homeownership. HYM/MyCAP have committed to delivering the homeownership component of the project in the first phase of development. This proposal for P-3 also includes lab space, as well as a commitment to job training in the life sciences industry for those in the Roxbury community. HYM/MyCAP have partnered with LabCentral Ignite, a life sciences nonprofit dedicated to upskilling and training people of color to fill positions in the life sciences buildings. LabCentral Ignite was created to address the disparities in the biotech industry’s workforce among racial and gender representation. This new center, designed, staffed, and operated by LabCentral’s Ignite, will be focused on harnessing the power of community to address systemic racial and gender underrepresentation in the life sciences. Over the years, Roxbury has been home to activists, civil rights leaders, artists, and musicians, and the neighborhood is known for its vibrant Black community and culture. Today, over 50 percent of the neighborhood’s population identifies as Black. Roxbury was designated as a Cultural District in 2017, elevating the area’s art, history, and community. In keeping with that spirit, this proposal includes space for Embrace Boston which will act as the cultural anchor for the project and drive civic engagement, working to advance economic justice for residents and introduce visitors from around the globe to this unique aspect of Boston’s past and present. Embrace Boston honors the memory of Dr. and Coretta Scott King by advancing their life’s work to ensure a more racially and economically just future. The space will be utilized as a museum/gallery and policy forum, providing a strong sense of identity to the overall project and a place for the community to engage passionately with ideas to advance racial and economic equity.  Like all BPDA-owned parcels in the City of Boston, the selected development team was required to meet the BPDA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion evaluation criterion, and outline commitments to including Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBEs) in all aspects of their development process. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) criteria was weighted at 25 percent of the total evaluation of the proposal. HYM and MyCAP are 50 - 50 partners and MyCAP is an MBE firm. There are 10 additional M/WBE firms on the team including Madison Park Development Corporation, DREAM Development, The OnyxGroup, Prive Parking, Embrace Boston, LabCentral Ignite, DREAM Collaborative, Agency Landscape + Planning, enviENERGY, Nitsch Engineering, and Maven Construction. The overall development team is comprised of 80 percent M/WNPO and M/WBE firms, and 100 percent of the team has committed to elevating M/WBE firms and individuals as it builds out the rest of the project team and through the development process. In addition, the development team has committed to a detailed recruiting, mentorship, and sponsorship program for minorities and women who wish to join the building trades. They also plan to build partnerships with Madison Park High School, BFIT, and other schools to provide internships, co-ops, and more for hands-on work experience. In December 2020, MassDevelopment awarded the BPDA a Brownfields Remediation Recoverable Grant for up to $250,000 for environmental cleanup of the site, which contains both soil contamination and groundwater contamination – the source of which is likely contaminants common in urban fill and possibly historic releases from former industrial use of the property. The BPDA is currently working to deploy those funds on environmental remediation activities at Parcel P-3, targeting the areas of highest contamination. This first phase of remediation activity is planned to be completed in 2023. Since adopting DEI criteria in 2018, more than 18 RFPs have been released with the DEI requirements, and 12 have been designated. A core value of the BPDA’s real estate practice is to use public property to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a result, the RFP required respondents to submit a detailed, impactful and implementable Diversity and Inclusion Plan for establishing and overseeing a minority outreach program aimed at creating increased opportunities for people of color and women. Following the tentative designation, HYM/MyCAP will file the project for Article 80 Large Project Review. The Article 80 process will be managed by the BPDA, in partnership with the community and local elected officials, to review the proposal’s impacts on transportation, the public realm, the environment, and other important considerations.

APIAVote's Statement on the Release of the WHIAANHPI Report to Promote Equity, Justice and Opportunity for AANHPI Communities

 

APIAVote's Statement on the Release of the WHIAANHPI Report to Promote Equity, Justice and Opportunity for AANHPI Communities

WASHINGTON D.C. – Yesterday, the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI) released its report to promote equity, justice and opportunity for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities.   This report maps out WHIAANHPI’s strategic plan to effectuate President Biden’s whole-of-government approach to ensuring that all communities are able to pursue the benefits and opportunities available from the federal government. Asian Pacific American Islader American Vote (APIAVote) applauds WHIAANHPI and the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (Commission) for their work on this important report.   Christine Chen, Executive Director of APIAVote, stated, “The report released yesterday by the White House Initiative underscores the Biden Administration’s commitment to advancing equity, justice and opportunity for the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. We at APIAVote are especially encouraged to see that among the important issues covered in the report are the issues of addressing anti-Asian hate, prioritizing data disaggregation and promoting language access.”   For additional information about the WHIAANHPI and the report, see:   AANHPI Strategy 2023 White House Fact Sheet

麻州首名黑人女總檢察長宣誓就任 將新設3組別加強4區域辦公室

麻州第45位總檢察長Andrea Campbell在丈夫及母親主持儀式中，宣誓就任。 (周菊子攝)

        (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓綜合報導) 在近千人參加，麻州正副州長，波士頓市長，聯邦參眾議員都到場的盛況中，Andrea Campbell在波士頓會議展覽中心宣誓就任為第45位麻州總檢察長，成為麻州有史以來第一位黑人女性總檢察長，也是第一個當選全州性民選職位的有色女性。

                      現年僅40歲的Andrea Campbell，穿著一身黑色禮服，薄紗下露出雙肩，站在背後有墨綠色絲絨曼帷襯托，身前有一叢叢白花圍繞的講台前，臉上綻放的笑容，燦爛無比。

左起，麻州副州長Kim Driscoll，州長Maura  Healey，聯邦參議員Ed  Markey，波士頓市長
吳弭，聯邦眾議員Ayanna Pressley，都來參加Andrea Campbell的就職典禮。 (周菊子攝)

                           也只不過是一年多前的2021年，Andrea Campbell在所有競爭波士頓市長席位的參選者中，坐擁最高額政治獻金，背後還有持200萬元經費，名為”更好波士頓 (Better Boston)”的超級政治行動委員會支持，她卻連大選都沒擠進去，初選這一輪就敗北了。

                         但是正如中國俗語所說的，「塞翁失馬，焉知非福」。

Andrea Campbell (左)和Maura Healey (右) 現在有如革命夥伴。
(周菊子攝)

Andrea Campbell放棄爭取連任市議員，競選市長又失利後，2022年再跳入選戰，角逐麻州總檢察長席位。起初，她面對的競爭對手都來頭不小，一人打出曾在歐巴馬總統麾下任職的關係，另一人不但自掏腰包的拿出上百成千萬元，注資給自己當競選經費，還有聯邦參議員Elizabeth Warren和波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu) ，前代理市長Kim Janey等人站台支持，選戰打得不容易。哪想到，當時參選麻州州長的Maura Healey，在同為民主黨的競爭對手，哈佛大學教授Danielle Allen，麻州參議員陳翟蘇妮，接二連三退出選舉後，開始不遺餘力的支持Andrea Campbell，甚至儼然變成Andrea Campbell的超級助選員，然後麻州聯邦參議員Ed Markey，聯邦眾議員Ayanna Pressley，麻州參議員Lydia Edwards，波士頓市議員Kenzi Bok等等政要，全都出來為Andrea Campbell助選後，選情就急轉直上了。

今天中午，Andrea Campbell站在台上，聽完表演者演唱她自己最喜歡的福音歌曲「我是怎麼熬過來的 (How I Got Over) 」，說她自己是站在一群爭取民權、自由與愛的黑人前輩們的肩膀上，走過來的。那包括麻州第一位黑人總檢察長，後來曾任聯邦參議員的Edward William Brooke。

Andrea Campbell請場中的助理總檢察官起立，宣誓為民服務。(周菊子攝)

Andrea Campbell也再次提及自己的成長過程，包括她還很小時，母親車禍過世，父親身繫囹圄，她和孿生弟弟，遊走於一個又一個的親朋戚友家中。她直到8歲才第一次正式見到自己的父親。但是麻州的教育給了她機會，她進過包括波士頓拉丁學校的5所公校後，上了普林斯頓大學，並從加州洛杉磯大學取得法學博士 (J.D.) 學位。只是她那孿生弟弟，人生際遇卻有著180度的不同，29歲那年因案被拘，獄中得不到適當醫療而死亡。她說，那讓她非常清楚，司法制度有待改革。

在波士頓洛士百利出生的Andrea Campbell，競選時承諾要改革麻州的刑事司法系統，彌平財富差距，為諸如學校經費的事務帶來更多公平。今天她在講台上，也再次列舉上任後的優先事項，包括要讓那些有權勢的人負起責任，為家庭帶來經濟繁榮與穩定，優先處理青少年的精神健康及福祉，並且要讓麻州總檢察官辦公室更親民。

                       Andrea Campbell的辦公室稱，從上任的第一天起，她就將設立耆英正義組 (Elder Justice Unit) ，槍枝安全執行辦公室，生育正義組( Reproductive Justice Unit) ，加強麻州總檢察官辦公室設於波士頓市、新貝福市( New Bedford) 、屋斯特市( Worcester)，以及春田市 (Springfield)等地的區域辦公室，包括聘請能與擁護組織，非牟利機構及企業領袖合作的社區參與專員等。

波士頓市傳將提議每年租金漲幅上限10%

波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu) 。(檔案照片，周菊子攝)

                      (Boston Orange 編譯) 租金一年最多漲10%。為波士頓市長吳弭做研究的一群人透露，吳弭市長在競選時承諾的要推動租金限制，可能會落在這個幅度。

                     波士頓市長還未提出，而且就算提出，也必須經過波士頓市議會及麻州議會通過才能生效的這提案，是以奧勒岡州 (Oregon)和加州最近生效的租金館製做模型。過去15年內啟用的樓宇，以及小業主所擁有，諸如3層樓等物業，可以豁免於此法。其他的樓宇，房東可以每年漲租6%，另加消費者物價指數的通貨膨脹，不過增加總額一年不可超過10%。這一提案還將附帶驅逐需有「正當理由」的租戶保護。

                 一名市府發言人證實了市府17日討論了這提案。

                 波士頓市一直是租金全美最貴的城市之一。在這租金昂貴名單上的其他城市，例如紐約，舊金山及洛杉磯，都有某種形式的租金管制。最近這幾年，波士頓這兒的租金又大幅上升了，根據CoStar的數據，包括奧斯頓/布萊頓 (Allston/Brighton)，後灣，查理士城等這些社區，過去10年來的漲幅超過了24%。傳統上比較不那麼貴的社區，例如洛士百利、多徹斯特，甚至漲得更快。

                  1994年時，租金控制原本只在波士頓、劍橋市和布魯克蘭鎮有效，但麻州居民通過選票問題，禁止全州任何一個地方實施租金管制。意味著，波士頓市的任何提案，都不只需要市議會，還需要州議會通過。