It has been over a year since the North End / Waterfront Residents’ Association (NEWRA) wrote a letter opposing the proposed Downtown Waterfront Municipal Harbor Plan. At this month’s meeting, Mr. Victor Brogna, Chair of the Zoning, Licensing and Construction Committee provided a brief status update.
The Downtown Waterfront Municipal Harbor Plan is under State Review with private negotiations ongoing between stakeholders regarding development parcels, notably the Harbor Garage. The 60 day consultation period has been extended over 9 months with the latest extension now expiring in late February 2018. A short public comment period is expected after a revised MHP is released.
When the original proposed MHP was released, community comment letters centered around a few major points:
— Opposition to the proposed 585′ height and scaling at the Harbor Garage site with requests for a detailed proposal by the Chiofaro Company developer.
— Broad support for the 50% open space guideline per State Chapter 91 requirements.
— Support for the more moderate Hook Lobster site development.
— Favorable reviews of the master plans of the New England Aquarium (the Blueway) and the Wharf District Council.
— Mixed reaction to the activation around Marriott Long Wharf.
See more coverage of the Downtown Waterfront Municipal Harbor Plan.
