Boston has a great economic story to tell. Boston’s total population has increased by close to 10 percent over the last 30 years, and our unemployment rate is well below that of the nation as a whole. Areas such as the South Boston Waterfront are propelling the entire commonwealth forward, with the Seaport having added about 4,000 jobs in the last four years alone. If Boston’s employment base expands according to projections, the city will grow to 728,500 total jobs in 2016. Boston is in a terrific position, but standing still and resting on our laurels will not keep us competitive.
One task before us is to enhance the growth and development taking place in the South Boston Waterfront and other neighborhoods.
For example, the Dudley Square area can accommodate up to 2.4 million square feet of new development. The new Ferdinand block will contain 18,000 square feet of retail space, but there is more to be done to unlock the area’s full potential.
Nearby, a proposed development project could be a significant catalyst for Roxbury Crossing. According to The Mission Hill Gazette, the 305,750-square-foot project will include 88 housing units, 10,000 square feet of retail space, 196,500 square feet of office space and 1,250 square feet of community space. The project will also have 201 surface and below-ground parking spaces.
These are just two examples of the type of activity that is possible across the city if we act intentionally and make sound public policy decisions that reflect both the input of the business community and neighborhood residents. Many other areas in the city, such as the Beacon Park Rail Yards and the Fairmount Corridor, are also filled with development potential that would unleash increased growth as well provide housing and additional employment opportunities.
Working Together
While private sector development must be a key ingredient behind this growth strategy for the city, our ultimate success will depend on a robust partnership with the public sector. The South Boston Waterfront would not be what the area is today without public infrastructure investments such as The Silver Line, direct connections to I-90 and I-93, the Haul Road and the Ted Williams Tunnel connection to Logan Airport. Development and new amenities are only useful if the broader public can access them in a safe and efficient manner. As we look to create growth districts throughout the city, we need to remember that fact, and make the public investments in infrastructure that are necessary to unlock private development.
Relatively low-cost improvements to existing transit service and other infrastructure, coupled with creative transportation options such as Diesel Multiple Units, Bus Rapid Transit, enhanced water transportation and improved pedestrian and bicycle corridors are absolutely critical. These improvements are a not a luxury to contemplate for a distant future. Rather, if we truly want to ensure that all of the residents and workers in Greater Boston have access to vibrant neighborhoods and a diverse set of employment options and locations, these investments must be planned for today. Yes, we face financial constraints, and not all of these improvements can be made overnight. But a bright future is on the horizon for Greater Boston – if we are proactive enough to develop a comprehensive finance and investment strategy for our transportation and economic future.
Rick Dimino is the president and CEO of A Better City.
