The Wharf District Council (WDC) discussed community preservation act funding, Boston Harbor Cruises, 190 High Street renovations and the Northern Avenue Bridge at their September meeting.
The WDC voted unanimously in support of the Friends of Boston Archaeology’s request for a $400,000 grant under the Community Preservation Act (CPA) to support a new public exhibit on the history and archaeology of Faneuil Hall. The exhibit will explore the role of the Town Dock in Atlantic trade 1630-1740, particularly the presence of enslaved Africans and artifacts associated with the Caribbean slave trade. All artifacts have been found around Faneuil Hall during construction and renovations.
Matthew Murphy, Boston Harbor Cruises (BHC) gave an overview on the history of BHC and its services. These include excursions, water taxis, commuter boats, whale watches, the Cape Cod fast ferry and more. The BHC was founded in 1926 by Matty Hughes, the youngest licensed captain in the port of Boston at the age of 16. At that time, the BHC offered 30-minute cruises on the Charles River for ten cents.
The WDC decided to issue a letter of support for a proposed roof top deck at 190 High Street. Thomas Trykowski presented plans for renovations and improvements to 190 High Street for the future office of Premier Property Solutions’ CEO Robert Weintraub. The renovations include the proposed addition of a roof top deck and small penthouse, adding 12 feet in height. There would also be changes in the appearance of the ground floor exterior and entrance to the building.
There was a discussion on the Northern Avenue Bridge planning and design. The Council and Wharf District community agreed they like the unique steel structure and hope to keep this look, suggesting a swing bridge if possible. They want a two barrel bridge with no vehicular traffic that is both a connection and a destination. Pedestrians, bikes and emergency vehicles should be allowed, but not general traffic.
BPD District A-1 Officer Teddy Boyle gave the police update. Overall, police activity in the wharf district area has been low.
- Three break-ins at commercial sites: Ben & Jerry’s kiosk, Broadluxe construction site and 200 Market Place.
- Three late night responses / arrests for fighting / rowdiness at bars.
- One incident at Quincy Market where an individual attempted to “buy” a thirteen-year-old girl. Suspect was apprehended.
Finally, the WDC is still looking for financing for the “Public Realm Vision” video, intended to build public consensus around the construction of the waterfront environment.
The community also continues to raise funds for the Harbor Fireworks, presented three times a year by the Boston Harbor Fireworks Fund Committee — Boston Harbor Now, Friends of Christopher Columbus Park and Wharf District Council.
See the full meeting notes and learn more about the Council at www.wharfdistrictcouncil.org.
Northern Avenue Bridge — When the Moakley Bridge was built, my understanding was that the Northern Avenue Bridge would come down. The Northern Avenue Bridge served as a gateway to the Seaport-Innovation District. Many people in the Fort Point Channel and Atlantic Avenue area would like the Northern Avenue Bridge to be open to pedestrians. Either take it down or make something of it! It’s been too long as an eyesore. Your thoughts?