The Boston Climate Jobs Alliance received a $9.8 million grant from the Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in August 2024. This initiative, facilitated by the Economic Development and Industrial Corporation, will create approximately 1,200 jobs in climate resilience occupations over four years. The alliance collaborates with over 30 stakeholders, including training providers and community engagement partners. The board approved the selection of Jewish Vocational Services as the employment and careers pathway coordinator, citing their comprehensive approach and adherence to the RFP requirements.

In housing and urban development, the board addressed an agreement with General Hospital Corporation (MGH) and the Boston Planning and Development Agency to develop affordable housing on Garden Street in Beacon Hill. MGH will convey the land for redevelopment at no cost, contingent on identifying a suitable developer through an RFP process. This project is part of a broader plan to create affordable housing and mitigate displacement in the city.

The board also extended the designation status of Windale Developers Incorporated for a project involving 12 urban renewal parcels in Roxbury, aimed at creating a mix of affordable and market-rate housing. Another extension was approved for the redevelopment of a parcel in the campus high school urban renewal area by HYM Investment Group LLC and My City at Peace LLC, which includes 466 housing units with a portion designated as income-restricted.

A new development at 75 to 77 Dorchester Street in South Boston was also greenlit. The project involves constructing a five-story mixed-use building with ground floor restaurant space and four stories of residential rental units, offering a total of 15 residential units, including three affordable housing units. The project will also provide bicycle parking and improve pedestrian infrastructure.

The board approved a memorandum of agreement for the redevelopment of building 108 in the Charlestown Navy Yard, highlighting Powerhouse CNY LLC’s proposal due to its advantageous design and inclusion plan. The building, formerly a central power plant, has undergone renovation.

Another highlight was the adoption of an anti-displacement action plan titled “A Place to Thrive,” designed to protect residents, small businesses, and cultural institutions from displacement. This comprehensive plan includes over 40 initiatives and emphasizes stabilizing neighborhoods amidst growth. It aims to protect residents, preserve existing structures, produce new housing and business spaces, and promote prosperity. The board emphasized the plan’s significance in mitigating displacement and supporting community resilience.

The meeting also featured a proposal aligned with the 2022 urban forest plan, which focuses on planting new canopy trees and integrating green spaces into urban development. The proposal includes zoning relief to facilitate the integration of new structures while preserving open space, notably designating 50% of the site for open space—a rare aspect in urban projects.

The board’s swift approval of motions and minimal debate reflect a shared focus on compliance with city goals while addressing community needs.

A notable operational change discussed was the modernization of the community engagement process. Efforts to consolidate existing guidelines into the zoning code were also highlighted.