The proposed safety improvements in Fort Point were the most notable item discussed. The project, a follow-up to The Big Dig and crossroads initiative, aims to make changes to the area’s streetscape, focusing on pedestrian and cyclist safety. The proponents of the project presented revised plans that included the reduction of plan sheets, the addition of raised crosswalks, separated cycle tracks, widened sidewalks, and improvements to pedestrian safety. The project has been coordinated with the Disabilities Commission, leading to the addition of reciprocal ramps and catch basins to enhance accessibility. Feedback from the Disabilities Commission was incorporated, and the project design remained mostly unchanged from previous discussions.

Moreover, the meeting took a moment to acknowledge a recent, unnamed tragedy in the Fort Point area. Public comments included a statement from Tom, representing the Fort Point Neighborhood Association, who expressed gratitude towards the city’s efforts in community engagement and its response to the tragedy by honoring the victim, Gracie.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) presented a petition for specific repairs in the area of St. James Avenue and Trinity Place. This project seeks to enhance the bus passenger experience, operations, and the public realm, serving approximately 1500 passengers daily from various Boston neighborhoods and cities like Watertown and Newton. The improvements include new trees, pavers, bus shelters, additional bus birthing space, a new transit signal, and accessibility and safety upgrades for the intersection.

The MBTA representative detailed their engagement with immediate abutters and various associations to gather input on the project and outlined a maintenance agreement for the project area. This agreement specifies responsibilities for maintenance and winter snow clearance, which was seen as an aspect of the project’s long-term success.

In other business, a proposal for specific repairs on River Street and Business Street in Hyde Park was presented. This proposal involves the demolition of an existing automotive garage and the construction of a new mixed-use building with residential units and ground-floor retail space. The plan includes closing an existing curb cut along River Street and adding bike racks, street trees, permeable pavers, and other street furniture. A pedestrian crosswalk across Business Street is also part of the project. Craig Martin, a member of the public, commented on difficulties hearing the presentation and mentioned his previous involvement with the proposal.

Furthermore, the commission discussed a petition by 30 Park Street Condominium Trust for improvements to Warren Street and Henley Street in Charlestown. The plan aims to reduce heat island effects and promote tree growth. Concerns about ADA compliance and the potential impact of city work on the proposed planting area were raised, and the proponent confirmed a commitment to necessary restoration work if needed. The need for comprehensive maintenance and tree replacement if necessary was emphasized, and the commission conveyed its readiness for a public hearing on the matter scheduled for April 11th.

During the meeting, concerns about the ownership of Business Street were raised, with the debate centering on the decision not to discontinue a leg of the street. It was clarified that the city and public works department were the decision-makers, considering the MBTA owns the other leg of Business Street. The proponents agreed to meet with the neighborhood association and present the proposed changes before the public hearing on April 11th.