12/8/98

Mr. Thomas O' Brien

The Boston Redevelopment Authority

One City Hall Square

Boston, MA 02201

Dear Mr. O' Brien:

We of the Seaport Alliance for a Neighborhood Design support recent BRA efforts regarding the planning of a significant residential component within the South Boston waterfront. We look forward to seeing these plans formalized as part of the forthcoming BRA South Boston Seaport District Master Plan.

We have long advocated for the planning of a neighborhood in the Seaport District. We recognize that the investment and attention of thousands of residents - rather than the accomodation of a limited number of interests, will ensure that the area evolves and sustains itself as do all Boston neighborhoods. We also recognize the intense need for housing in the Seaport District to alleviate existing pressures on the South Boston community.

It is especially encouraging for us to hear that your office will plan for a mix of affordabilities and building scales throughout the Seaport District. Upscale residential condo projects and residential towers tend to be insular, protecting and separating the occupants from the outside world while mixed-use and smaller scale dwellings create pedestrian activity as its occupants require closer integration with local area services. All wonderful neighborhoods in Boston have a mix of uses and an inviting diversity of populations.

Of course, as we eagerly anticipate the publication of the Seaport District Master Plan, some concerns remain. Notably:

• South Boston residents have expressed important health and quality of life issues including affordable housing, pollution and traffic.
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• The Fort Point Artists' Community -while providing valuable caché and character to the City of Boston, is falling prey to rising market demand for Fort Point office space.
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• The Marine Industrial Park's survival is at a critical point and must be protected from further encroachment by real-estate speculators.
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• Public open and recreational space must be a priority in Seaport District planning. The Master Plan must not include waterways (as recommended by Cooper/Robertson), parking lots, or privately regulated areas in calculations of public open space.
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• Development heights and densities must reflect a relationship with Boston harbor and neighboring communities.
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• Public process and the adherence of property owners, Massport, the MBTA and Masspike to the BRA Master Plan will certainly be major issues as we enter the next phase of development.

SAND members appreciate your efforts over the past year towards improving the Master Plan. We look forward to working with you in the months to come.

Sincerely,

Steve Hollinger

On behalf of:

The Seaport Alliance for a Neighborhood Design (SAND)

cc: SAND Membership

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