We would like to invite all residents who live within the Andrew Square Civic Association boundaries to become members.
To all existing members; we look forward to another year of community engagement with your devotement and support. Thank You!
Andrew Square Civic Association
"We care, about the Square"
As South Boston changes, we would like to welcome all our new residents. We look forward to working together to embrace coming changes, yet maintain the close-knit ties that make our community unique. Come join us in building a better neighborhood.
BPD in the Community: Senior Group Annual Trolley Tour
BPD in the Community May 31, 2023: Officers assigned to District C-6 Community Service Office (South Boston) accompanied residents on their Annual Trolley Tour around the City. The group traveling to various locations in the city including the Bunker Hill monument, Public Gardens, State House, TD Garden, and other famous landmarks. The group looks forward to this annual tour and are excited for the next one.
In Observance Of Memorial Day
Memorial Day is commemorated in memory of the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces
Deepest appreciation and thanks to all who served!
ASCA IMPORTANT JUNE MEETING
Members and friends of ASCA – We have two very important agenda items:
*MBTA: discussion on crime, public safety and other issues at Andrew Station.
**** EVERSOURCE: update us on the Dewar St. project that impacts the Ellery St. substation.
Is it safe for our neighbors? Why were trees removed due to safety?
How can Eversource make up for the egregious tree loss in Andrew Square?***
If time allows, we will recap June 13th Public Safety meeting and other updates.
Public Safety meeting can be viewed on “YOUTUBE South Boston Beat” (community public safety meeting).
Your input and participation is important. Hope to see you on the 27th!!!
ASCA Raises Concerns at Andrew Station - Please see the MBTA Response in red
To: MBTA Leadership
Steve Poftak, MBTA General Manager
Chief Kenneth Green, MBTA Transit Police
Victoria Ireton, MBTA Public Engagement
Terrie Chan, MBTA Public Engagement
FROM: Andrew Square Civic Association
RE: Andrew Station T Public Transportation Safety and Law Enforcement
DATE: May 5th, 2022
On behalf of the Andrew Square Civic Association, we want to first highlight our gratitude to the MBTA for such an accessible public transportation system here in Andrew Square. Thank you for all the hard work behind the scenes to offer folks great options to travel around Boston with ease. For all the things that go right every day on the T, we are thankful.
With that said, we would like to raise some pressing concerns and ask for your support in providing definitive feedback, plans for resolution, and a commitment to accountability for a more secure public transportation experience at the Andrew Station T and throughout Boston.
As you know, crime has become a rampant problem in and around the T and especially here in Andrew Square. This has ranged from youth antics, gaining control of communication systems at Andrew Station and yelling obscenities, armed robberies, random acts of violence and assault, and widespread illegal drug usage activities.
This has all occurred within the past few months and captures a narrow snapshot of the everyday reality here.
The Andrew Station T is extremely unsafe and is being observed/perceived as such by our community. Describing the Andrew Station T as a “no-go zone,” especially during certain times of day, is an accurate representation of public sentiment. Many people in our neighborhood have simply stopped using the T.
This is especially concerning considering the PLAN: South Boston Dorchester Avenue Planning Initiative, which presumes heavy if not exclusive use of the T. As you know, developments along this corridor benefit from specialized BPDA code requirements significantly decreasing or eliminating parking within/around structures. With giant developments in progress or on the horizon within walking distance to the Andrew Station T, we can expect a significantly larger volume of public transportation riders in this area. The fact that the Andrew Station T is so unsafe undermines all assumptions for transportation in the plan. This cannot be tolerated.
To begin the dialogue, we would like a response to the following:
1. What cameras/call buttons/opportunities to contact the police and MBTA personnel are available at the Andrew Station T?
The MBTA encourages our riders to report any incidents that they may see. Please call the customer support line at 617-222-3200 or send in an electronic comment via mbta.com/customer-support. If the incident should demand the attention of the Transit Police, then we encourage riders to download the See Say application, which is available for iPhone and Android users, to report incidents to the Transit Police.
2. Are all of the abovementioned communication/security devices in operating order? Please confirm yes or no, and if no, please provide the location of all non-operational devices along with a plan and date for resolution.
All cameras and call buttons are operational to our knowledge.
3. Is someone at the MBTA actively monitoring camera content at all times the T is in operation?
Yes, Transit Police monitors the public safety cameras 24/7 to ensure safety for our riders.
4. When can we expect MBTA Police Officers to be on site at the Andrew Station T? Could you submit a schedule and number of units/officers?
Transit Police dedicates substantial resources to Andrew T Station based on a comprehensive analysis of reported crimes, Boston Public School dismissal times and other intelligence that we gather from our law enforcement matters. As a matter of operational sensitivity, we do not release the schedule, times and number of officers located at any station for security reasons.
5. Where will MBTA Police Officers be posted? Will any officers be patrolling the platform?
The officers will conduct directed patrols at which they would check the entire station that includes platforms. Furthermore, Transit Police utilize a variety of strategies to ensure public safety. One of the strategies Transit Police utilizes is predictive policing which is the utilization of various data that can guide the deployment of officers and identify areas where crime is more likely to occur.
Given the limited resources of the department and the vast jurisdiction of transit police, it is difficult for TPD to be located at every station for patrol throughout the service day. However, given the unique proximity of Andrew station to TPD headquarters, the community can expect a rapid response in case of emergency.
6. There is a crowd control issue with rowdy passengers taking the bus and train during certain hours, can the MBTA respond with a plan for providing a safe, accessible, and clear path for all riders to enter Andrew Station?
Can you please provide further clarification on this issue? We will need more details including dates and times to better answer this question. The MBTA is happy to provide follow up to this question and would like to gain a better understanding.
7. Lastly, how do you plan to improve upon the enforcement of the law in and around the T? What type of crimes would trigger an arrest?
The Transit Police are ardent practitioners of Community Policing standards that are set forth by the community. We work closely with our local police partners to ensure safety.
Thank you for your priority and attention to these matters. We would like to emphasize our support and partnership in resolving these issues with you.
Sincerely,
Lydia Hamilton Polaski, ASCA Liaison to the MBTA
cc:
South Boston Elected Officials
Linda Zablocki, ASCA President
Pattie McCormick, ASCA Vice-President
ASCA is working towards a healthy and safe neighborhood!
We invite you to attend our next meeting, as we will have representatives from Eversource in attendance.
Discussion to include tree removal, upgrades, and safety at the substation on Ellery Street.
Read more about the Dewar St. Project to Ellery St. - "Eversource Upgrades” Link provided.
Events
'Love Your Block' - Andrew Square
Andrew Square residents and businesses joined together on Saturday April 29th to participate in Love Your Block, an annual neighborhood clean-up sponsored by the City of Boston.Volunteers cleaned out planters in Andrew Square, swept streets and cleaned up litter near the MBTA station and in the surrounding neighborhood.Rock painting was a new feature this year for Andrew Square’s Love Your Block, and it was a big draw for the neighborhood kiddos – and grown-ups, too! As the weather gets warmer, the rocks will look cheerful as they are placed in the planters around the Square.A big thank you to workers from Core Development/Core Cares (organized by Liz Paige/Mike Cahill) and Abacus Builders (organized by Mark Little) for helping with the clean-up effort. We couldn’t do it without you.We are so grateful that John Gillespie from Dunkin once again donated coffee and donuts, which the volunteers certainly appreciated on a chilly morning. Thank you for supporting us.A special shout-out goes to Lydia Polaski for organizing the rock painting table. The creativity is inspiring and uplifting!
'Love Your Block' Superstars
Thank You All
City Of Boston Neighborhood Business Walks - 'Iron Works'
The City Of Boston Department Of Economic Opportunity And Inclusion held a 'Walk Tour' in South Boston on May 4, 2023 at National Development's 'Iron Works' Business District.
These walks are an opportunity to connect with business owners and residents, and to spotlight Boston's neighborhoods.
The agenda included: PKL Boston 64 C St, So. Boston, MA - B/SPOKE 54 Old Colony Ave So. Boston, MA - Mei Mei Dumplings 58 Old Colony Ave, So. Boston, MA - Shy Bird 12 Old Colony Ave, So. Boston, MA - Castle Island Brewing Co. 10 Old Colony Ave, So. Boston, MA
ASCA President Linda Zablocki welcomed the City's Contingeny, along with Elected Officials. She cited the great work being done on Old Colony Ave. offering words of encouragement that the City and local businesses continue to develop and build on their business relations.
ASCA Development News
Development Committee Web Portal
Developers: Please use this online portal to submit your Andrew Square Development Proposal. (Portal link below)
Before you may submit your completed RFI, you must read and acknowledge the ASCA Mission Statement on Development.
Proposed plans should adhere to ASCA Mission Statement on Development – which was tailored to address quality of life issues, address City of Boston’s housing/climate concerns, while protecting our core neighborhood from becoming a transient neighborhood.
630 Dorchester Ave.
Zoning Board Appeal Hearing - 4/25/2023 @ 11:00
212 Old Colony Ave. - Existing & New Rendering
Zoning Board Appeal filed - 4/12/2023
617 Dot. Ave. - Existing parcels - open lots
617 Dorchester Avenue f/k/a 20 Boston Street
==BPDA Public Community Meeting Wednesday, May 10, 2023. ==
34 Vinton St. - Existing & New Rendering
Proposed
Join Zoom meeting here...
Zoning Board Appeal filed - 4/11/2023
170 Old Colony Ave. (15 Earl St.) Development Proposal
DEMOLISH EXISTING STRUCTURE AND ERECT NEW 4 STORY, 4-UNIT BUILDING W/GARAGE AND FRONT BALCONIES
Zoning Board of Appeal
ZBA Hearing - BOA1351164 scheduled for January 31, 2023 at 9:30 a.m.
ZBA Motion To Defer - 3/28/2023 @ 11:30 a.m.
54-60 Rogers Street Development Proposal
Erect three story 4 unit residential dwelling townhouse design multi level on 3 146sf as per plans Existing structure to be razed under separate permit lot applied demolition application
Zoning Board of Appeal
ZBA Hearing - BOA1381733 - Motion Approved on 4/14/2023
Mary Ellen McCormack Development Proposal
37 Jenkins Street Development Proposal
Change use from a single family to a two family. Proposed additions and renovate, as per plans.
Zoning Board of Appeal
ZBA Hearing - BOA1330550 - Motion Approved on 3/17/2023
48 Ellery Street Development Proposal
Combine two lots - Raze existing building - erect a new 14 unit, 6-story multifamily building with residential lobby, 7 parking spaces.
ZBA Hearing Date - To Be Determined
Additional Proposals & Development News
Political Corner
A federal judge on Monday barred the City of Boston from using a new district map approved by the City Council and mayor last fall, saying a legal challenge to the redistricting process could be successful in proving race played too heavy a hand in the process.
The timing of the order could cause major confusion in this year’s City Council elections, which were expected to be run using the new political map. Without a clear picture of the council district boundaries that will be in place come November, some candidates may be unsure which district they will even live in and thus would seek to represent.
In her 43-page ruling, Judge Patti B. Saris effectively sent the council back to the drawing board to come up with a new map, saying, “The ball is back in the City Council’s court.”
STATEMENT ON REDISTRICTING MAP
I'm relieved to have this behind us, and that we ultimately restored the Constitutional rights of our constituents, which a federal court ruled were imperiled by the map previously enacted, and which I strongly opposed at the time, for the very same reasons that Judge Saris rejected it. That's why some of us fought so hard. The franchise of every resident must matter. It's the foundation of our democracy, and I'll never apologize for fighting for that.Safeguarding the voting rights of our constituents-regardless of the neighborhoods in which they live- should always be top of mind for elected officials. As Vice Chair of the Committee on Civil Rights and Immigrant Advancement, I'm pleased that we eventually did so in an equitable and transparent way, in which the voices of the public and the input of every City Councilor were heard and included. I also hope that we, as a body, learn some lessons from this-about respect for the rights of every Bostonian, and for each Other.As an At-Large City Councilor, I'm proud to vote for a redistricting map that balances the needs and imperatives of the whole city. I thank Mayor Wu for her input. I want to thank Councilor Louijeune for chairing effective, productive, and fair committee meetings on a very tight schedule and under enormous pressure I want to thank all of my colleagues for participating and being heard.Now, we have a lot on our plate making our streets safer, improving our schools, casing our housing crunch. paying back our seniors, helping the less fortunate, creating jobs and passing the budget.Let's get to work!
Erin Murphy City Councilor At-Large
Boston City Council passes new Electoral Redistricting Map 5/24/2023
A contentious redistricting process ended with relatively little fuss Wednesday, when the Boston City Council passed a new map via a 10-2 vote.
Update from Mayor Michelle Wu
City Council President Ed Flynn
City Councilor Michael Flaherty
City Councilor, At-Large Erin Murphy
City Councilor Frank Baker
City Councilor, At-Large Ruthzee Louijeune
City Councilor, At-Large Julia Mejia
Update from State Senator Nick Collins
Mass. State Representative David Biele
Mayor's 'ONS' - So. Boston Liaison - Anna White
Local Businesses
16 Preble Street – Andrew Square
Coffee, smoothies, breakfast, lunch, baked goods – and more! Owner, Julia,
invites you to stop by and try some delicious food. Hours: Monday through
Friday: 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and weekends: 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
In The News!
'Small Victories' - from the team team behind East Boston's 'The Quiet Few'
It always feels good to celebrate a win. And call this a big one: Small Victories — a new bar and restaurant from the team behind beloved East Boston whiskey bar, the Quiet Few — is slated to open late this year in South Boston.“Small Victories will be very much aligned with the Quiet Few, only if TQF had a couple Monster Energy drinks,” owner Josh Weinstein tells Eater.
Pickleball South Boston
Located at 'Iron Works' - 20 Old Colony Ave.
"An enormous South Boston venue pairs pickleball with enviable bar snacks."
"At PKL, Boston’s newest (and only) giant pickleball venue, newbies and veterans of the badminton-like sport can have a great time running around and hitting balls, or lounging with a cocktail, or relaxing over slower-paced games of shuffleboard and cornhole — or a combination of all of these. It’s an added bonus, then, that a talented Boston chef is overseeing the food menu and showcasing the best of local sourcing, elevating bar snacks to a new level."
Cannonball Cafe
Cannonball Cafe; the latest addition to the Andrew Square scene. Stop in and try the coffee and delicacies.
Meet the bar manager getting creative at GrandTen
"I love people that tell me they hate gin because by the time they're leaving, they're drinking bee's knees and buying bottles of our gin." Story & website link below
Tatte Bakery & Cafe News !
"We are thrilled to be a part of the neighborhood and open our cafe in the middle of our bakery space. Come meet our team, enjoy our pastry and food, and sip a latte watching our talented bakers at work."
Fresh Boston Opening Soon
Located at 232 Old Colony Ave
Local chef honored by James Beard Foundation
Mei Mei - at 'Ironworks'- 20 Old Colony Ave.
Telegraph Hill Kitchen & Bar is open!
Located at 289 Dorchester St. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Click on a Calendar Event for Info
Membership Registration & Donations
As South Boston changes, we would like to invite all residents who live within the Andrew Square Civic Association boundaries to become members.We look forward to working together to embrace coming changes, yet maintain the close-knit ties that make our community unique. Come join us in building a better neighborhood.By joining, you become eligible to vote on all official ASCA topics.Membership must be renewed each year if you would like to remain a full ASCA member. New members can join at any point of the year, but memberships expire on August 31st each year.Annual dues are: $10 for an individual membership, $15 for a family membership, and $50 for businesses.Online payment includes $1 to cover online processing fees.Rather pay via check to avoid the online processing fees?Click the link below to download the ASCA Membership application.Please fill out completely and mail with payment to:
ANDREW SQUARE CIVIC ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 455
South Boston, MA 02127
Alternatively; applications and payments will be accepted at all scheduled ASCA meetings.
Let's all "Care About The Square" Thank You
Neighborhood & Public Safety
Links below for: community feedback & continued email updates.
Recording is on YouTube - South Boston Beat - 'Summer Street Pilot Program'
Reminder - Street Sweeping Season
The Daytime Street Cleaning Program runs from April 1 to November 30 in most Boston neighborhoods. Check the posted street sweeping signs on your street for the schedule and parking restrictions.
For further information regarding particular street dates and times please click the link below.
Boston Fire Prevention Education
Boston Police Safe Exchange Zones
BPD Issues Guidance for Reporting Loud Parties
Residents are encouraged to contact the Boston Police Department to report loud parties in the community. In addition to the disruption that loud parties create, reporting these gatherings help prevent late-night disorderly behavior and reduce the incidents of possibly further criminal conduct.
Residents may report a disturbance to 911.
Community members wishing to report anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1 (800) 494-TIPS or by texting the word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department will stringently guard and protect the identities of all those who wish to help this investigation in an anonymous manner.
Residents may also report any disturbance to their neighborhood district station.
Click the link below for more info.
Dot Ave. bridge will stay closed through next fall.
A bridge that carries Dorchester Ave. over MBTA tracks into South Boston and Dorchester will remain closed through next fall.
A key Dot Ave bridge that links Dorchester and South Boston that closed last June will remain shut down through next fall as work continues to replace the aging MBTA-owned span that carries people and cars over Red Line and commuter rail tracks below it.
The $34.5 million project involves a full replacement of the bridge and the Red Line tunnel roof and the rehabilitation of a retaining wall on adjacent Von Hillern Street.
The bridge was supposed to re-open to cars, bikes and people on Nov. 7, but the MBTA announced on Oct. 28 that the closure will stay in place through fall 2023 “at the request of the City of Boston.”
A statement by the T said that “this extension allows for acceleration of work by the Boston Water & Sewer Commission.”
This delay comes after the T had already extended the closure from August into this month after workers found “obstructions” that delayed the job, according to an MBTA spokesman.
The existing bridge is slated to be demolished and replaced with new steel girders and concrete bridge deck, T planners say.
Text
South Boston Public Safety Community Meeting - June 13
Sponsored By:
Council President Ed Flynn, Councilor Michael Flaherty, Councilor Frank Baker, Councilor Erin Murphy, Congressman Stephen Lynch, State Senator Nick Collins, State Representative David Biele
About Us
The ASCA has been serving the Andrew Square neighborhood for decades. This association recognizes and affirms the diversity of our neighborhood as the foundation of a healthy, vital, and dynamic community. The mission of the Andrew Square Civic Association is to improve the quality of life in our neighborhood, and serve as a forum for volunteerism, discourse, and cooperation. We work closely with residents, local businesses, and government officials to address our common issues.
ASCA Mission Statement On Development
ASCA’s goal is to address the current quality-of-life and climate change issues in our core residential neighborhood by supporting responsible development. The once industrial area of Dorchester Ave. will bring large scale mixed-use development, and this makes it vitally important that we adhere to zoning regulations in our residential area as they greatly impact our community. We are also conscious of the need to design and develop projects in ways that mitigate the impact of climate change and adapt to future environmental conditions.
WE SUPPORT:
*Maintain the modal setback, and if it has been recently changed, we must provide sidewalks large enough for multiple people to pass, baby carriages/wheelchairs to access. Wider sidewalks also allow for all the barrels on trash day AND space to bank snow in the winter. This also provides room to follow Parks & Rec guidelines in hopes of planting more trees. Second-floor overhangs, and bay windows, have been given much liberty over the past several years and should also adhere to modal set-back as they interfere with pedestrians walking experience during inclement weather. For example, if the modal setback is five feet, a project’s second-floor overhang should adhere to the five-foot setback, not the building envelope. And while our older attached buildings do not conform to required side/yard set-backs, we should not continue to follow this pattern set 75 to 100 years ago when they were built. New construction should adhere to setback guidelines for front, rear and side yards.*Provide adequate parking for a neighborhood that has seen a breaking point when it comes to insufficient parking. Strictly enforce the current ratio of 1 parking space per 1 bedroom unit, and more parking spaces if there are multiple bedrooms. We are open to considering alternative parking options, such as parking lifts, for projects to achieve the desired parking ratios.*Maintain some historical character and stability in the neighborhood by supporting BPDA/ZBA protocol on height and FAR (floor area requirements). These codes were recently update, with MUCH input from the community, and they should be respected.*Regarding open space and trash, it is imperative that projects provide open space as defined by zoning requirements. Personal space (decks/balconies) should not be included in open space calculations. Andrew Square is in a flood zone. We need open/green areas to address: climate change, resiliency and flooding that is already occurring in our neighborhood. Open space is also important to curb dogs, for trash/recycling bins (unless there is plenty of room for these inside a garage). Trash has become a problem in the neighborhood as residents do not have enough receptacles. This has created an on-going problems with rodents.*In general, we do not support large roof decks/decks and prefer smaller balconies preferably inserted in building. However we review outdoor space on a case-by-case basis and our support depends upon the circumstances of a proposed project with location and impact on abutting neighbors.*With the goal in mind of preparing our community for all aspects of climate change, projects should include features that increase our neighborhood’s resiliency to rising sea levels and flooding (as mentioned in reference to open space), lessen the urban heat island effect, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through safe walking, biking and public transportation options.
Andrew Square has done more than its fair share of increasing the housing stock in Boston. ASCA has worked hard with city agencies over the years to identify areas of significant growth on Dorchester Ave, Old Colony Ave., Anne Lynch homes at Old Colony, and more recently Mary Ellen McCormack Housing Development. It is imperative that we protect our residential neighborhood.We look forward to working with all parties, in particular the ZBA/BPDA, to assist us in our efforts to be intentional and support responsible, sustainable development – the type of development that will promote an equitable and healthy neighborhood.
Information from 2020 Boston Census:
Population Growth:
South Boston had 35,660 residents in 2015, 5% of Boston’s population
South Boston grew by 25% from 2000 to 2015, faster than the city’s growth of 10% over the same period.
Vehicles:
70% of South Boston households in 2015 had a least one vehicle, compared to 65% of all Boston households.
The ratio of vehicles to households in South Boston was 1.02 in 2015, higher than Boston’s ratio of 0.91
Pets per household:
While we cannot confirm number of pets per household via 2020 census, suffice it to say there are many households with dog(s).
Data collected from ASCA survey on parking/transportation (December 2020): 65 people responded
6 do not have cars – 27 have one car and no parking – 16 have one car and off street parking – 7 have 2 cars no parking - 4 have 2 cars with 1 parking spot – 3 have 2 cars with off street parking for both vehicles – 2 have 3 vehicles with one parking spot
1 bikes to work - 13 take the MBTA to work – 3 retired
6 residents mentioned prior to covid they took the MBTA, but will no longer do so. – 4 residents commented they will no longer use Andrew Station due to safety issues.
September 2021
Community Anouncement
*** Proposal For a Retail Recreational Cannabis Dispensary at 558-560 Dorchester Ave. - (The Connection)***
Please Read and Sign The Pettition in Opposition
Simply Click The Black Button at The Bottom of Page
ASCA Viewpoint
We are not opposed to the business, we are opposed to the location of this business in Andrew Square due to the egregious conditions at this timeAndrew Square is located at the crossroads of “Methadone Mile”, and well known for the numerous methadone clinics, recovery and rehabilitation programs, and homeless centers in the vicinity, as well as the resulting problems residents of the area encounter on a daily basis. It is a site of frequent overdoses, and our neighborhood has seen an increase in crime, including residential break-ins, motor vehicle break-ins, robberies, assault and property damage as a result.Our local businesses have also been negatively impacted as well. Addiction is an overwhelming problem in our neighborhood, and in an effort to combat the issue, we have many social service agencies doing their utmost to assist those afflicted with this disease.As ASCA does recognize and respect that the proponents have every right to garner support for this business endeavor, we feel very strongly that there are more suitable locations.In response to similar requests, we suggest a more densely populated business district as an alternative, where customers may obtain services, and safely return to their residence or business. Sadly, residents of our many small streets and private ways have been targeted by those who sell or purchase prescribed medications illegally. We firmly believe that these businesses should be located away from residential communities, as well as recovery and rehabilitation*** We do not oppose cannabis (marijuana) dispensaries or the services they provide. However, we feel strongly that a business of this nature would not add value nor improve the area but would only add to the myriad of problems and would likely have a negative impact on those who are trying to overcome addiction.***Until the spill over from 'Mass Cass' is cleaned up, we can not entertain a business like this in our neighborhood !!!
Petitions & Surveys
South Boston Neighborhood Corporation
Please sign the petitions below. Thank you for your support
MOAKLEY PARK
Come get to know South Boston’s waterfront park. With ball fields, playgrounds, basketball courts, and water play, Moakley has something for everyone.
In March, we kicked off the Phase 1 Community Process for Moakley Park. Thank you to all who attended. AND there's still opportunities to participate! Phase 1 includes the northernmost part of the park and includes the following areas: Operations and Maintenance Building, baseball field, community plaza, picnic overlook, and a portion of the coastal flood barrier system.
*** As a next step, share your voice in the future direction of Phase 1 by letting us know how the community would like to use this area of the park in the future.***
Please fill out this short survey. To learn more about this project visit our website at www.boston.gov/parks/moakley-park.
Help Support The Effort To Rebuild The Long Island Bridge
The Supreme Judicial Court has upheld a state decision to allow the project.
Our neighborhood has been greatly impacted by the removal of Long Island bridge in 2015. Since then, the City of Boston has overcome many obstacles to gain approval to rebuild. While the end is in sight, it is important that we continue to assist in the process.
We ask that you submit letters in support for the last U.S. Coast Guard permit.
The navigation determination public comment period on the Long Island Bridge Superstructure Replacement Project is now open, and the USCG will collect public comments through January 6, 2023. Public comment in support of the Long Island Bridge Superstructure Replacement Project is critical.
PUBLIC COMMENT SUBMISSION DETAILS:
All written public comments must be addressed to the following USCG Official:
Commander
United States Coast Guard
First Coast Guard District
408 Atlantic Avenue
Boston, MA 02110
Public comments may be submitted by mail, e-mail at SMB-D1Boston-Bridges-PublicNotices@uscg.mil, or both.
Red Line Transformation Program The Red Line Transformation (RLT) team continues to progress construction efforts while targeting speed restrictions throughout the line.
Red Line Signal Upgrades
Upgrades to the signal system will allow for more efficient system maintenance and safer, more reliable Red Line service. Work is temporarily on hold until further notice due to the prioritization of other work and MBTA Right-of-Way (ROW) access constraints.
Codman Yard Expansion & ImprovementsCodman Yard upgrades will increase reliability, modernize existing infrastructure, and expand service capacity. This week, crews continued installing permanent sewer and water systems to the Resident Engineer trailers and excavated for upcoming ductbank placement. Looking ahead, crews will excavate trenches for traction power ductbanks that will be installed under the new storage tracks. The ductbanks provide a protected pathway for buried electrical cables from the substation to the third rail. During this work, we will continue to monitor pests in the area. You can view the Pest Management Plan flyer on our website.Cabot Yard and Maintenance Facility
Upgrades to the Cabot Yard and Maintenance Facility will allow for safer, more efficient maintenance. This week, crews continued developing as-builts (site drawings) for the existing ductbanks based on their test pit inspections and will continue developing these drawings next week. These drawings will help prevent utility conflicts during ductbank replacement.Please note the schedule for these major infrastructure projects is dependent on weather and subject to change without notice.For more information on speed restrictions, visit the online Speed Restriction Dashboard that provides riders with up-to-date information on speed restrictions across the MBTA system.Visit www.mbta.com/RLT to see the numerous projects that RLT is carrying out to improve your experience riding the Red Line. To stay informed of service changes, sign up at www.mbta.com/alerts.If you have any questions, please email RLT@mbta.com. To report RLT construction issues and noise complaints, please call the project hotline: 617-222-3050.
BOSTON — Governor Maura T. Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kimberley Driscoll and Transportation Secretary Gina Fiandaca today announced that, after a comprehensive search, they will be appointing Phillip Eng as the next General Manager of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). Eng is an engineer with nearly 40 years of experience in transportation, including as President of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) Long Island Rail Road and Interim President of New York City Transit.Governor Healey, Lieutenant Governor Driscoll, Secretary Fiandaca and Phil Eng will hold a media availability today, Monday, March 27th outside of Riverside Station at 367 Grove Street in Newton (Green Line – D Branch). Eng and Secretary Fiandaca will then take the Green Line to Park Street Station to greet riders and walk over to the MBTA Operations Control Center at 45 High Street to meet with workers and review operations at the facility.
ASCA Raises Concerns at Andrew Station - Please see the MBTA Response in red
To: MBTA Leadership
Steve Poftak, MBTA General Manager
Chief Kenneth Green, MBTA Transit Police
Victoria Ireton, MBTA Public Engagement
Terrie Chan, MBTA Public Engagement
FROM: Andrew Square Civic Association
RE: Andrew Station T Public Transportation Safety and Law Enforcement
DATE: May 5th, 2022
On behalf of the Andrew Square Civic Association, we want to first highlight our gratitude to the MBTA for such an accessible public transportation system here in Andrew Square. Thank you for all the hard work behind the scenes to offer folks great options to travel around Boston with ease. For all the things that go right every day on the T, we are thankful.
With that said, we would like to raise some pressing concerns and ask for your support in providing definitive feedback, plans for resolution, and a commitment to accountability for a more secure public transportation experience at the Andrew Station T and throughout Boston.
As you know, crime has become a rampant problem in and around the T and especially here in Andrew Square. This has ranged from
This has all occurred within the past few months and captures a narrow snapshot of the everyday reality here.
The Andrew Station T is extremely unsafe and is being observed/perceived as such by our community. Describing the Andrew Station T as a “no-go zone,” especially during certain times of day, is an accurate representation of public sentiment. Many people in our neighborhood have simply stopped using the T.
This is especially concerning considering the PLAN: South Boston Dorchester Avenue Planning Initiative, which presumes heavy if not exclusive use of the T. As you know, developments along this corridor benefit from specialized BPDA code requirements significantly decreasing or eliminating parking within/around structures. With giant developments in progress or on the horizon within walking distance to the Andrew Station T, we can expect a significantly larger volume of public transportation riders in this area. The fact that the Andrew Station T is so unsafe undermines all assumptions for transportation in the plan. This cannot be tolerated.
To begin the dialogue, we would like a response to the following:
1. What cameras/call buttons/opportunities to contact the police and MBTA personnel are available at the Andrew Station T?
The MBTA encourages our riders to report any incidents that they may see. Please call the customer support line at 617-222-3200 or send in an electronic comment via mbta.com/customer-support. If the incident should demand the attention of the Transit Police, then we encourage riders to download the See Say application, which is available for iPhone and Android users, to report incidents to the Transit Police.
2. Are all of the abovementioned communication/security devices in operating order? Please confirm yes or no, and if no, please provide the location of all non-operational devices along with a plan and date for resolution.
All cameras and call buttons are operational to our knowledge.
3. Is someone at the MBTA actively monitoring camera content at all times the T is in operation?
Yes, Transit Police monitors the public safety cameras 24/7 to ensure safety for our riders.
4. When can we expect MBTA Police Officers to be on site at the Andrew Station T? Could you submit a schedule and number of units/officers?
Transit Police dedicates substantial resources to Andrew T Station based on a comprehensive analysis of reported crimes, Boston Public School dismissal times and other intelligence that we gather from our law enforcement matters. As a matter of operational sensitivity, we do not release the schedule, times and number of officers located at any station for security reasons.
5. Where will MBTA Police Officers be posted? Will any officers be patrolling the platform?
The officers will conduct directed patrols at which they would check the entire station that includes platforms. Furthermore, Transit Police utilize a variety of strategies to ensure public safety. One of the strategies Transit Police utilizes is predictive policing which is the utilization of various data that can guide the deployment of officers and identify areas where crime is more likely to occur.
Given the limited resources of the department and the vast jurisdiction of transit police, it is difficult for TPD to be located at every station for patrol throughout the service day. However, given the unique proximity of Andrew station to TPD headquarters, the community can expect a rapid response in case of emergency.
6. There is a crowd control issue with rowdy passengers taking the bus and train during certain hours, can the MBTA respond with a plan for providing a safe, accessible, and clear path for all riders to enter Andrew Station?
Can you please provide further clarification on this issue? We will need more details including dates and times to better answer this question. The MBTA is happy to provide follow up to this question and would like to gain a better understanding.
7. Lastly, how do you plan to improve upon the enforcement of the law in and around the T? What type of crimes would trigger an arrest?
The Transit Police are ardent practitioners of Community Policing standards that are set forth by the community. We work closely with our local police partners to ensure safety.
Thank you for your priority and attention to these matters. We would like to emphasize our support and partnership in resolving these issues with you.
Sincerely,
Lydia Hamilton Polaski, ASCA Liaison to the MBTA
cc:
South Boston Elected Officials
Linda Zablocki, ASCA President
Pattie McCormick, ASCA Vice-President
Senator Nick Collins and Rep. David Biele release a statement voicing their concerns about the MBTA bus route changes.
Andrew Square to Dewar St. Reliability Project Start of Construction
To our Andrew Square neighbors,
Dear neighbors,As part of our everyday effort to deliver reliable energy to our customers and communities, we want to let you know beginning Monday, June 5th, crews will continue work near the Dewar Street Substation as part of the Andrew Square to Dewar Street Reliability Project. Separate crews will also continue site work at the Andrew Square Substation. See below for details and work hours.Please be assured that this work will not interrupt your electric service, and all people working on this project are Eversource-approved contractors and carry proper identification.Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns and I will be happy to help!
Thank you, Aiden Nguyen - Eversource Project Services -aiden.nguyen@eversource.com
Weekly Construction Update Monday, June 5th - Friday, June 9th
Work at Andrew Square Substation - Work Hours: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM