K2C2 Final Reports Released
The final reports for Kendall Square and Central Square are now available for download. Zoning discussions based on the recommendations of the K2 and C2 Advisory Committees, which are encapsulated in these reports, will continue in 2014.
Community Development Department
Kendall Square Central Square Planning Study (K2C2)
Central Square Final Report 2013 Part 1, December 2013
Central Square Final Report 2013 Part 2, December 2013
Kendall Square Final Report 2013 Part 1, December 2013
Kendall Square Final Report 2013 Part 2, December 2013
This comprehensive planning effort guided by stakeholder advisory committees, City staff, and a team of multidisciplinary consultants led by Goody Clancy, developed a vision and master plan for Central Square, Kendall Square, and the area South of Main Street (including the Osborn Triangle) connecting the two squares. Both final reports are divided into two parts; in each case you will need to review both parts to read the entire report.
I read quickly the entire Central Square report. It appears to be an very good analysis of the situation with a large number of recommendations, some big in consequence and cost, some small.
To me the big question is how to turn the recommendations into actual plans with timelines of action and then to find a way of how to measure progress, year by year.
Comment by John Gintell — December 31, 2013 @ 3:45 pm
I read through this last evening and was pleased to see some adjustments from previous iterations. I’ve also completed a zoning analysis on my parcel at 897-907 Main St. to see how any change in zoning would effect me and those with similar footprints. The interesting thing that I found was that the height of my parcel, given the most logical footprint, would never exceed the 80′ limitation currently in place. Thus any claim that Central may be in danger of encroachment by a tunnel of tall structures either doesn’t know how to read or has an agenda; there simply isn’t enough land.
Another point that I brought up with CDD is that the phrase “middle income housing” is used generously in the document, yet no definition currently exists, though the accepted understanding is that this would include housing at 80-120% median income. Thus based on a three person occupied unit you’d have a spread of $1500-$2500. There is no way on this planet that I could build a three bedroom and rent it for that low brand new, and the “gift” of going above 80′ will not make up for the loss. I’d be happy to show the math. I’d rather stick with the inclusionary zoning and call it a day, however for a small fry like me my options are 1) Sell or 2) Do nothing. Currently door #2 is looking sexy. My tenants will be pleased.
To me it seems that this was Kendall Square’s party, and Central Square was a last minute invite that few really wanted at the party. I hope in the coming months (years?) Central Square finally gets the attention it deserves.
Comment by Patrick Barrett — December 31, 2013 @ 4:30 pm