Boston’s Old South Church is the latest aggrieved party in a simmering battle for sunshine amid a downtown building boom.
The 142-year-old church is two blocks away from a planned tower at Back Bay Station, a subway and commuter rail stop. Representatives for the church are concerned that shadows from the planned 365-foot tall structure would cause moisture damage to masonry and darken stained-glass windows.
Old South Church has asked the developer for $19 million in mitigation funds, with $4 million going toward repairs to the church. The remaining $15 million would go to a citywide fund for affordable home-ownership programs.
Boston Properties, the developer, says the fee is exorbitant, and that impact studies don’t support the church’s fears, though a preservation architect quoted by the Boston Globe says the concerns are warranted. The company plans $72 million in upgrades to the train station and surrounding area as part of a $1 billion project consisting of three office and apartment towers and a garage over the Massachusetts Turnpike.
The Boston Planning & Development Agency hasn’t made a decision on the church’s request, and has delayed a vote on the project while church officials and the developer continue discussions. In a related matter, the state passed a law earlier this year that allows more shade from buildings on Boston Common, a move that would allow construction of a proposed 700-foot tall tower above an old parking garage.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 12, 2018
Congestion pricing for cars is effective in reducing traffic, but a difficult sell
After three years, traffic congestion declined by 30% in London.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2018
First RFP requiring modular construction on New York City housing project issued
Part of Housing 2.0 modular construction initiative.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
Buffalo, N.Y., contractor exec pleads guilty to fraud for bid rigging on $750 million contract
LPCiminelli stops functioning as GC in fallout from the case.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
LEED should be updated to combat climate change
Hasn’t kept pace with urgency of problem, says clean energy investor.
Codes and Standards | Jun 5, 2018
Sports stadiums and arenas showcase sustainability features
Green venues save owners money, gain positive publicity.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
L.A. must transition to cleaner energy, boost transit to reach sustainability goals
City aims to reduce GHGs 60% by 2035 and 80% by 2050.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
Washington D.C.’s flattened skyline can be a virtue
Zoning ordinance that ties building heights to width of streets dictates form.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
Silicon Valley cities considering taxes aimed at large employers
The aim is to offset the impact on housing costs and homelessness by tech companies.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
OSHA proposes new crane operator safety rule
Would provide long-term clarity on certification requirements.
Codes and Standards | May 29, 2018
Government support helping to drive demand for green building materials
Market projects to grow 12.5% annually between 2013 and 2019.