The focal point of the meeting was Harvard University’s ambitious proposal for the development of Trotting Avenue, a new public way intended to improve connectivity in the area surrounding the Enterprise Research Campus. Shon Fitzgerald from the Harvard Austin Land Company led the presentation, detailing the roadways’ design, which includes eight-foot sidewalks and five-foot cycle tracks on both sides. These features are designed to facilitate pedestrian and bicycle traffic while integrating ADA-compliant drop-off zones and parking spaces to ensure accessibility.

The project also includes enhancements along Western Avenue, which are expected to be presented to the Commission for further review. Despite initial challenges, such as ensuring adequate pedestrian crossings and maintaining accessibility, the design has been praised for its emphasis on safety and modern infrastructure integration. The Commission moved forward with approving the necessary petitions for Trotting Avenue, underscoring the project’s long-term vision for connectivity between Harvard’s campus and the surrounding urban areas, including a connection to Cambridge Street.

In a related discussion, the Commission also addressed the lining grade approval and highway easements necessary for both Trotting Avenue and Milestone Street. This process involved adjustments to accommodate fire apparatus maneuverability within the public right-of-way. A legal review found the draft highway easements satisfactory, allowing the Commission to approve the petitions unanimously. The approval was marked by acknowledgment of the collaborative efforts between Harvard representatives and city officials.

Parallel to these approvals, Harvard sought layout approval for Axel Way, a new private way intended to connect Trotting Avenue and Milestone Street. Axel Way is designed to function as a service road, providing access to parking and loading facilities for lab buildings within the campus. The design includes shared-use paths for bicycles and pedestrian-level lighting, consistent with the Harvard Master Plan. The Commission approved this petition without opposition, further advancing Harvard’s comprehensive development plans.

The meeting also delved into the complexities of vertical discontinuance petitions concerning portions of Trotting Avenue and Milestone Street. These petitions are essential for maintaining the utility infrastructure associated with Harvard’s District Energy facilities. The vertical discontinuance aims to protect existing utilities while ensuring future utility needs are met within the public right-of-way. The Commission expressed concerns about setting a precedent for future projects, emphasizing the need for detailed legal descriptions and easements to ensure clarity and compliance.

In addition to Harvard’s projects, the meeting addressed a petition by Boston University for specific repairs along Commonwealth Avenue. The proposal involves streetscape improvements linked to renovations at Warren Towers, the city’s largest dormitory. Boston University’s representative discussed curb realignment, sidewalk reconstruction, and enhanced street lighting. The Commission raised concerns about pedestrian safety, specifically regarding raised crossings, but ultimately approved the petition.

The session also covered plans by the Residences on Blue Hill Limited Partnership to construct 41 affordable housing units. The project includes curb realignment and pedestrian ramp enhancements. The Commission’s discussion centered on driveway width and pedestrian safety, resulting in approval of the petition after assurances of further documentation.

Finally, the meeting introduced a proposal by Niche Engineering for installing twelve statues in downtown Boston for the holiday season. The statues, to be placed along key streets, will be illuminated using existing city streetlights. Discussions focused on safety concerns related to the statues’ bases and potential maintenance issues. The Boston Improvement District will handle responsibilities for any infrastructure adjustments required. The proposal is set for a public hearing in two weeks.