0:00One of the most significant items on the agenda was Public Hearing Number One, which focused on a joint petition by the City of Boston Public Works Department and the City of Boston Transportation Department. The petition proposed extensive repairs and upgrades at the intersection of Chelsea Street and Terminal Street in Charlestown. The improvements aimed to realign curbs, reconstruct roadways and sidewalks, install new pedestrian ramps, and upgrade traffic signal infrastructure, among other enhancements. Jeffrey Alexis from the Public Works Department introduced the project, emphasizing its role in boosting pedestrian access as part of the HarborWalk extension. He was joined by Jeff Satel from Niche Engineering, who detailed the design adjustments aimed at improving safety, such as an exclusive pedestrian crossing and increased landing areas for pedestrian ramps, as requested by the Disabilities Commission.

Despite the urgency of pedestrian safety issues discussed, stakeholders had not yet reviewed the latest plans. The chair recognized the need for additional time and agreed to continue Public Hearing Number One until September 26, allowing stakeholders the opportunity to provide input on the updated plans. A motion to this effect was seconded and unanimously approved.

The meeting then turned to a proposal for specific repairs at 265 to 267 Amy Street in West Roxbury. Matt Blancher from Howard Stein Hudson presented on behalf of Youth Enrichment Services and Watermark Development Incorporated. The project involved demolishing an existing building to construct two new structures: a three-story commercial building for Youth Enrichment Services headquarters and a three-story residential building with seven condominium units. The proposal included relocating one driveway curb cut, adding a second curb cut for bus access, and widening and reconstructing sidewalks with permeable pavers, bike racks, and street trees.

20:02A significant part of the discussion centered on ensuring community benefits and mitigation efforts were included in the project. A commission member emphasized the importance of presenting all project components as a single package to guarantee accountability. Given the reliance on other government agencies that had experienced delays, the commission expressed comfort in allowing a portion of the project to proceed, provided there was a clear commitment from the proponents to return with updates once outstanding issues were resolved. Timely communication about any substantial delays was insisted upon to ensure that sidewalk improvements were not neglected after the building’s completion.

Safety concerns were also raised about a crosswalk near the residential building and the youth enrichment service center. The crosswalk’s adequacy was questioned, particularly given the anticipated foot traffic from younger children. It was clarified that the crosswalk was an existing one, and improvements included pedestrian refuge elements to enhance safety. The proximity of the Stony Brook T stop was noted, providing direct access to the building without the need to cross the street.

Traffic safety discussions included the possibility of implementing speed bumps on Amry Street, characterized as a thoroughfare. Constraints of the existing crosswalk location, such as existing driveway curb cuts, complicated the installation of a raised crosswalk. Instead, the decision was made to enhance the current crosswalk. Additionally, a member highlighted drainage issues at the intersection, with reports of street flooding. Recent work by the Water and Sewer Department had addressed some concerns, and coordination with the department was requested to resolve all drainage issues before proceeding with construction.

The meeting also covered a petition from Northeastern University regarding a renovation project on Columbus Avenue. The project involved significant internal renovations to accommodate a mail center and associated infrastructure improvements along Benton Street. Collaboration with city staff led to a design addressing concerns about delivery drivers parking on sidewalks and included updates to street lighting and signage. Specific measures included a raised crossing and a designated loading zone to formalize traffic patterns, although landscaping constraints were noted due to limited sidewalk space.