BPDA Unveils New Plan To Guide Revitalization, Growth Of Downtown

Downtown Boston, the vibrant heart of this historic city, has faced unprecedented challenges in the wake of the pandemic. However, hope is on the horizon as the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) unveils its final draft of PLAN: Downtown. This comprehensive plan not only aims to facilitate the downtown's recovery from the pandemic's impacts but also presents innovative solutions to transform it into a thriving hub for residential, mixed-use development, historical preservation, and enhanced public spaces.

**Four Pillars of Transformation**

PLAN: Downtown is structured around four key areas of focus: growth, transportation, public space, and climate resiliency. These pillars serve as the foundation for a comprehensive revitalization effort that will redefine downtown Boston for years to come. Within these areas, the plan provides specific strategies, including policy actions, zoning updates, and design guidelines.

BPDA Senior Planner, Andrew Nahmias, emphasizes the significance of this moment, stating, "This is a critical moment for downtown, especially after the pandemic, to revitalize itself and look for new opportunities to bring people together in new ways."

**Community-Centric Subdistricts**

Downtown Boston is a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. PLAN: Downtown recognizes this diversity by dividing the area into subdistricts, including Downtown Crossing, Chinatown, Theater District, Financial District, and Wharf District. Furthermore, the plan introduces the concept of "ladder blocks," charming historic blocks near Boston Common and Washington Street.

**Balancing Height and Heritage**

One notable aspect of the plan is its recommendations for height and density zoning changes. In key areas like Downtown Crossing, Theater District, and Financial District, PLAN: Downtown proposes a by-right height limit of 155 feet. Additionally, it introduces a "height bonus" program that allows certain buildings to exceed this limit in exchange for contributions to public projects and compliance with regulations regarding shadows on Boston Common and Federal Aviation Administration guidelines.

The plan carefully considers the historical significance of different areas. As you move outward from the city center towards Boston Common and the Wharf District, building heights gradually decrease. This thoughtful approach balances development with the preservation of Boston's rich cultural heritage.

**Chinatown's Unique Path**

Recognizing the unique characteristics and ongoing Chinatown Cultural Plan, PLAN: Downtown also launches a separate zoning plan for the Chinatown neighborhood. The goal is to align these two plans seamlessly to ensure they complement each other.

**A Journey to Revitalization**

The journey to develop PLAN: Downtown began in 2018, spurred by the planning of MP Boston's Winthrop Center, a project that challenged the state's shadow laws. While the pandemic temporarily halted the process, it was reignited last year in response to reduced traffic and a challenging downtown office market. The draft plan aligns perfectly with Mayor Michelle Wu's commitment to rejuvenating the district.

Mayor Wu has already taken significant steps to breathe new life into downtown Boston, awarding SPACE grants to 24 businesses in July. These grants aim to revitalize the area by supporting the opening of new storefronts, attracting foot traffic, and celebrating entrepreneurship in the community.

**Housing as a Beacon of Change**

One of the cornerstones of PLAN: Downtown is its ambitious housing production goals. The plan seeks to transform underutilized Class-B and C office buildings into housing, with a focus on the Financial District, Wharf District, and ladder blocks. The city is even launching an office-to-residential conversion pilot program, offering substantial tax incentives to encourage downtown office owners to embrace this transformation.

Both PLAN: Downtown and the city's office conversion study are well on track to be finalized by October, marking a significant milestone in Boston's journey toward a revitalized and thriving downtown core.

In conclusion, PLAN: Downtown represents a bold vision for Boston's future, one that embraces its history while adapting to the evolving needs of the city and its residents. With thoughtful zoning changes, community-centric development, and a commitment to preserving Boston's unique character, the plan paves the way for a brighter, more vibrant downtown Boston that will continue to thrive for generations to come.