The Boston Development Authority (BRA) board of directors approved four development projects totaling approximately $374.7 million at a recent meeting.

John Hancock received approval to construct a new $350 million, 26-story office tower in Back Bay that will include a public lobby with restaurant and retail space, a roof deck and four levels of underground parking. The 625,000-square-foot tower on 380 Stuart St. will be home to a new signature office building for the company. The $350 million dollar project is expected to create 454 construction jobs.

The board also approved small housing projects in Roslindale and Jamaica Plain.

The board gave final approval for the Watertown plumbing and HVAC company J.C. Cannistraro to rehabilitate a large industrial building on the South Boston waterfront. The company plans to use the new facility to fabricate plumbing, HVAC, fire protection and related construction products.

The BRA board also approved a $60,000 grant to Technical Development Corp. to conduct a cultural facilities assessment. The study will survey Boston’s arts and culture landscape and report on the needs of the performing arts community.