Boston Zoning Board Approves Office-to-Housing Conversion in Downtown

In an effort to address the city’s housing needs, the Boston Zoning Board of Appeals approved a proposal to convert three downtown office buildings into residential units. This transformation, part of the Downtown Office to Residential Conversion Program, aims to adapt underused commercial spaces in response to the decline in office occupancy due to the pandemic.

The approved project involves the buildings located at 83-89 Devonshire Street, 58 Washington Street, and Washington Street. The development will create 95 rental apartments, including 29 studios, 59 one-bedroom units, and 12 two-bedroom units. Additionally, the development will retain approximately 15,790 square feet of ground-floor retail space currently in use. Notably, the project will offer 16 units at 60% Area Median Income (AMI) and three units at Very Low Income (VLI) rates. Five units will be designed for accessibility, and two units will cater to hearing-impaired residents.

The proposal, presented by representatives from STG Devon Shire Equity Partners and their development and architectural team, highlighted that no exterior changes would be required, and no on-site parking would be provided, aligning with the zoning code. The primary violation cited was related to open space requirements, a consequence of converting office space into residential use.

During the public testimony segment, a representative from the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services supported the proposal, emphasizing the need for housing in downtown Boston. The mayor’s office also noted that the project had undergone a thorough community process.

Another noteworthy agenda item involved a request for a roof deck replacement on B Street. The petitioner, representing Northeast Industrial Sharu, sought approval for a roof deck replacement, asserting that the deck’s size and design would remain unchanged from the original construction. While the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services did not express concerns, a public citizen voiced opposition, citing potential disturbances from roof deck activities. The board, after confirming the deck’s unchanged dimensions, approved the request.

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