Wednesday, June 29, 2011

128 to become permanent parking lot

The Metropolitan Area Planning Council warns that 128 is going to see 77% more traffic between Route 3 and the Turnpike ... and then proposes band-aids: shuttle buses.

The projected increase in traffic is going to be fueled by new development. Why not meet the new demand with a supply of mass transit? Why isn't the answer new rail or bus rapid transit?

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The right orientation on Boylston Street

Encouraging news on the Chestnut Hill Shopping Center front: the developer intends to re-orient the buildings to engage Boylston Street.

It’s a project that in certain respects has its back to Boylston Street, and we’re going to turn it into a project that has its back on no one.

It's a shame that NED didn't have the same attitude a block away.

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Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Ding, dong, the Atrium is dead

Wondering about the future of the Atrium, Tiffany's has been the piece that didn't fit. Given the overwhelming decline of the Atrium, why had Tiffany's stayed? With Tiffany's, could mall-owner Simon still make a go at high-end retail? Given competitor Chestnut Hill Square coming online soon, could the Atrium attract high-quality retail tenants (or retain the two that are left) without it's marquee tenant?

At least one question answered: Tiffany's is moving across the street to the Mall. (Apparently, it's been public since April. I just saw it here.)

Gotta believe that that's it for the Atrium.

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