Draft Project Impact Report - Boston Redevelopment Authority

Exeter Residences/888 Boylston
5.3 Shadow Analysis
\\Mabos\projects\09916.00\docs\Permits\DPIR\Text\DPIR Chapter 5
Environmental.docx
environment, an environment that would be present even under the No- Build
condition if the Project were not constructed. As described above, the Project will
result in a moderate improvement in mean annual wind speed in the Project area.
To achieve this condition, the Project design includes the installation of 10-foot tall
trees at selected locations along Exeter Street, at the corner of Exeter and Blagden
Streets. The type of trees may be either coniferous or have a branch density that will
be adequate to have the desired wind mitigation effect. The design team will
identify the appropriate choice with the final streetscape design and will work with
the BRA to ensure that the proposed trees provide the designed effect. No additional
wind mitigation is anticipated to be required. Figure 5-3 depicts the locations of the
proposed mitigation measures related to the Project.
This shadow analysis updates the analysis included in the NPC/PNF by adding
additional evaluation dates and providing a separate study of shadow on the Boston
Public Library courtyard east wall. This additional data is beyond the requirements
of Article 80 Large Project Review and are provided to respond to comments raised
during the NPC/PNF public review. The shadow studies included herein utilize the
updated massing for the Exeter Residences and 888 Boylston. The following study
dates were evaluated:
1. 2/5 and 11/5
2. 3/21 and 9/21 (Spring and Fall Equinox)
3. 5/5 and 8/5
4. 6/21 (Summer Solstice)
5. 10/21
6. 12/21 (Winter Solstice)
Several interim study dates (2/5 and 11/5, 3/21 and 9/21, and 5/5 and 8/5)
represent similar sun azimuth and altitude data, therefore the shadow impacts for
these dates coincide and are presented as a single study date. Furthermore, the
October 21 st date was included as a study timeframe since this is the City’s date after
which use of public open space diminishes and therefore potential impacts are less
relevant. Lastly, a discussion of the potential impacts on the pedestrian plaza spaces
around the existing Prudential Center AvalonBay buildings is included in this
section.
DRAFT - Environmental Protection 5-11