The most notable discussion centered on the Suffolk University’s proposal to amend its 2020 Institutional Master Plan to convert the Paddock building, a historic structure, into student housing. This project would involve transforming approximately 67,000 square feet of office space into student accommodations with additional amenity spaces dedicated for student activities. The ground floor is set to maintain nearly 9,000 square feet of retail space, aligning with the plan to keep the building’s external structure intact while making significant internal modifications. This proposal is part of Suffolk University’s broader strategy to increase on-campus housing from 34% to 40% for undergraduate students, moving the student population closer to downtown Boston.

The proposal received substantial support from local elected officials and community representatives, including endorsements from labor unions recognizing the job opportunities it would generate. The project aligns with the city’s downtown residential conversion incentive pilot program, which encourages the transition of commercial buildings to residential use, supporting broader urban revitalization goals. The project’s sustainability objectives include pursuing LEED Silver certification, with ambitions for LEED Gold, emphasizing energy efficiency and carbon emission reductions by maintaining over 60% of the building’s original structure.

Public testimony highlighted strong backing from labor unions, with representatives from the Carpenters Union, Sheet Metal Workers Local 17, and Iron Workers Union underscoring the project’s potential to offer valuable career opportunities and support local workforce development. The project’s alignment with the Boston Housing Strategy 2025 was emphasized, particularly its role in reducing off-campus student housing demand, which could alleviate pressure on surrounding neighborhoods.

In addition to the Suffolk University proposal, the board reviewed a redevelopment project on Everett Street in Brighton. This project proposes a six-story multifamily residential building with approximately 240 units and 120 parking spaces. It reflects compliance with the Wacker Z zoning study, which promotes residential use with ground-floor retail, adhering to local zoning regulations while maintaining the neighborhood’s character.

The board also discussed the Drexel Village project in Roxbury, which aims to create 217 new housing units, 85% of which are designated as affordable. This development is part of a larger effort to enhance connectivity between Roxbury and surrounding areas, supporting the Roxbury Strategic Master Plan and Plan Nubian Square. The project includes three residential buildings with commercial spaces, a new childcare facility, and community-oriented outdoor spaces designed for diverse age groups.

Further, the meeting addressed the Orchard Gardens redevelopment project in Roxbury. This effort will rehabilitate existing units while preserving affordability, aligning with the city’s strategic plans for maintaining and enhancing affordable housing. The project team emphasized their commitment to engaging with the community throughout the planning process.

The board also considered a proposal for a property on Herald Street in the South End, which includes constructing a new building with 117 fully affordable rental units and commercial space. This project supports the Boston Housing Strategy 2025 by integrating affordable housing with commercial uses, fostering a vibrant community environment. The development team highlighted their longstanding partnership with the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association in promoting affordable housing in Chinatown.

In other discussions, the board reviewed a small-scale development on Vermont Street, which proposes 14 condo units, including two affordable homeownership units. This development falls under the inclusionary development policy due to its size.

The board also received updates on ongoing planning initiatives, including zoning reforms and neighborhood assessments.