point cover jan 13 - Boston Redevelopment Authority

Introduction
Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc.
The Point, Boston
\\MABOS\projects\11381.00\reports\Article80\Expanded
_PNF\02_Urban Design_FINAL.doc 2-1 Urban Design
Urban Design
The urban design strategies of the Project have largely grown out of and evolved from input from the local
Fenway community groups as well as the BRA. Through recent zoning changes following a neighborhood
visioning process and the development of new mixed-use projects in the neighborhood (Trilogy, 1330
Boylston Street, and the Fenway Triangle Mixed Use Project), the primary objective of creating a diverse
urban village has been furthered.
The existing conditions at the Project Site are remnants of the automotive industry of the 1920’s and the more
recent development of ‘service’ uses (e.g., fast food establishments and convenience retail). Today, however,
the project area is greatly influenced by its proximity to Fenway Park, the Landmark Center retail district,
and various institutions, such as Emmanuel College and the Longwood Medical and Academic Area (LMA), as
well as the residential neighborhood south of Boylston Street. These surrounding land uses have greatly
contributed to the success of the recent Fenway district developments by Samuels & Associates at Trilogy and
1330 Boylston Street, and the future Fenway Triangle Mixed Use Project. These catalytic developments have set
the stage for the continued transformation of the underutilized parcels remaining along Boylston Street and
Brookline Avenue. The Point will elegantly define the western edge of this vibrant and diverse neighborhood,
provide new area housing and retail opportunities, and reinforce the Fenway’s position as one of Boston’s
exceptional locations.
Summary of Key Findings
Key findings related to urban design include:
Historically, the project area included industrial and automotive uses, which, more recently, transitioned
into ‘service’ uses, such as fast food establishments and convenience retail.
Boylston Street is an important vehicular connector serving the neighborhood and linking downtown to
the Longwood Medical Area (LMA), and the City of Brookline to the west.
The Project proposes to build upon the recent developments in the Fenway area and continue the
positive growth along Boylston Street.
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