point cover jan 13 - Boston Redevelopment Authority

Shadow
\\MABOS\projects\11381.00\reports\Article80\
Expanded_PNF\04_Environmental_FINAL.do
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Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc.
The Point, Boston
This section describes the anticipated changes to shadows in the project area as a result of the Project.
Summary of Key Findings
To be expected when replacing a low-density, suburban-style development pattern with urban buildings of
varying heights, the Project will result in new shadows within roads and sidewalks during various times of
the year. The majority of new shadows are along the portions of Brookline Avenue within the vicinity of the
Project Site. There is no negative impact on the Back Bay Fens—a park that is part of the Emerald Necklace
landscape feature that meanders to the west of the Project Site.
The presence of these new shadows is consistent with the urban environment and planning objectives of the
neighborhood, and when combined with the Proponent’s proposed enhancements to the public realm in the
area, are not likely to discourage the use of sidewalks or public areas in the vicinity of the Project Site. It is
anticipated that the neighborhood will benefit from the Project because it will draw more pedestrian traffic to
it and the surrounding area, thus enhancing commercial and recreational activities within the neighborhood.
Regulatory Context
The Proponent has completed a shadow study as part of this expanded PNF to ascertain the potential new
shadow impacts resulting from the Project. The shadow impact study has been conducted in accordance with
Section 80B-2 of the City of Boston Zoning Code with particular emphasis on sidewalks, public plazas, and
other public open spaces as well as nearby building of historical importance. As contemplated by Section 80B-
2(b) of the code, the shadow study for the Project compares the Build and No-Build Conditions.
Methodology
The following shadow study has been prepared using methodologies consistent with accepted practices for
such studies completed under Article 80 review. The analysis provides a comparison of the No-Build and
Build Conditions. This is accomplished by using a three-dimensional model of the project area using data
provided by the BRA, updated to include nearby foreseeable projects. The analysis is based on the BRA’s 3D
massing model for the Fenway neighborhood and includes the adjacent Trilogy building located between
Brookline Avenue and Boylston Street, 1330 Boylston Street, and currently approved projects (i.e., 121
Brookline Avenue and Landmark Center North). The study was completed using standard sun altitude and
azimuth data for each study date estimated to occur at latitude and longitude 42°20'37.58"N, 71°6'6.48"W.
Times were adjusted for daylight savings time as appropriate. The No-Build and Build Conditions were
compared for the spring and fall equinoxes, and the summer and winter solstices at 9:00 AM, 12:00 Noon and
3:00 PM. Additional shadows were estimated for summer solstice and fall equinox at 6:00 PM.
4-7 Environmental Protection