What Year is It?

The ineptitude of the MBTA never ceases to shock me. I don't typically pay close attention to map signage on the T trains, because, well, I live here and know where I'm going. However, numerous tourists and day-trippers must get a little confused when they see maps on Blue Line trains (and perhaps other lines) that are from the 1980s, depicting a dotted, unfinished Orange Line reroute, as well as the Green Line going all the way to Forest Hills.

I know some things take time, but come on MBTA. Get it together. There is no excuse for not changing signage over the course of 25 years. And if you have changed it, and those wonderful, high-quality,peel-and-stick signs I've noticed have been vandalised and pulled off, replace them. How hard can this be? There is nothing more frustrating about being a transit advocate than having to face this complete lack of upkeep. How do you expect to get people out of their cars?

Idiotic.

A Sign of Things (Not) to Come in Eastie?

It's official, the "stalled" East Pier project is down. The billboard at least. (That one as you depart the Callahan Tunnel above Santarpio's ) That's right, the once glorious rendering of yuppies glancing out of their glass walled condo at the Boston skyline across the harbor, is down. It's now a giant blacked-out billboard. To me, that says, project dead. It doesn't say "stalled".

I was trying to remain optimistic that Roseland and Lennar would make it work somehow, however, that big black blank billboard has tipped the scales. And it's too bad. The mega-development would have brought some nice amenities to Eastie, not to mention some killer living room views for those lucky enough to afford them. In addition to those lucky interior views, the developers were required to add more park space and walkways along the water for all to enjoy. Now, I fear no one will.

I just hope it's not a sign of things to come for other East Boston proposed developments. East Boston, its waterfront in particular, has so much potential. I would hate to see it wasted.

Questionable Intelligence Reported in the FPC

An article in the Herald reported that ex-BRA chief, Robert Walsh, is working as a consultant on a project to place a large FBI office right smack dab in the middle of the hot hot hot neighborhood, Fort Point Channel (the FPC) in the hot hot hot Seaport District (the SPD). I figure everyone's always renaming hoods, so why not go for actual initials. So no FoPoCh or SePoD, just initials, the FPC and SPD, or better yet, Fort Point and Seaport. Anyway, I know many consider this area one big neighborhood, but let's be real, they are completely different. One is a cool, old industrial area, with perhaps the greatest potential of any neighborhood in Boston to be "the neighborhood" of cool uban space. And the Seaport District will be new. That's right, new. Charm free and lots of glass. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Anyway, back to the point. AN EX-BRA BOSS WANTS TO PUT A FREAKIN' FBI OFFICE IN THE FPC. All I can say is, "What the fuck!!!"

Check the article out here.

Now I know the BRA is not always looked upon favorably in these parts, sometimes deserved, often not, but how could an ex-BRA boss be in favor of such an idiotic develpoment? It's beyond comprehension. As the article states, the area is set to be a mixed-use office and residential area. This area is a kick-ass urban oasis. They could write a song about those initials. Hello, "Livin in the FPC. That's right. Livin' in the FPC". It's that cool. Or it could be if left alone to become a great 18/7 or perhaps 20/7 community...this is Boston, don't kid yourself with it being a 24/7 city. Anyway, I'd much rather see rich folks move in than the freakin' FBI. This area is so close to the financial districtf, it's begging for flex office space and lofty residential ambitions...even in this slow real estate market. TPlus, the waterfront is an amazing open space amenity for the future residents, shoppers and diners at what will be a hoppin' restaurant scene. Hell it's about to bloom in the FPC.

Needless to say, plopping down a gigantic FBI office in thie area would not be the best fit. The security alone would be a major buzz kill. Nothing welcomes residents and casual pedestrians to a neighborhood more than a federal office where terrorism and "homeland security" are key aspects of daily life.

Please, please, please, current BRA and Mayor for Life, be smarter than our national intelligence agencies, and stop this!!!

One of Boston's "Finest" Not So Fine

Isn't it nice to walk into your local Dunkin' Donuts and see an orgainized, peaceful line of locals awaiting their morning brew? It is. You know what's not nice? When your friendly neighborhood Boston police officer, who should be understanding and show common curtousy, calls the staff working at your friendly neighborhood Dunkin' Donuts "idiots". I think there was an f-word before the "idiots" part too, but I can't recall. I may have imagined it, but somehow, I think not.

That's right, this morning, as I awaited my bagel and coffee, one of Boston's finest spewed hateful words at the woman behind the counter who was making his egg and cheese bagel. And to top it off, his reasoning was completely off-base. He placed his order just after I placed mine. Therefore, my bacon, egg and cheese bagel (my food choices are questionable at times), was cooking, or should I see nuking, in the micro. He falsely assumed that this was his own order, and told the woman to throw it out, because the sausage had touched the egg, and he doesn't eat sausage or any kind of pork. And I would agree with him, if I didn't eat pork, I'd tell them to throw it out too, after explaining it to them nicely. BUT IT WASN'T EVEN HIS ORDER. And when she tried to explain (and yes, her English, wasn't great, but totally understandable) that it didn't touch the pork (it didn't, i could see it), and second, that the pork in the micro wasn't his (he wasn't listening at this point), he called for the manager And then when the manager type explained to him that an egg and cheese wouldn't have had any sausage touching it (this is pre-packaged Dunkin Donuts...there's nothing fresh), he disagreed, and spewed "Never mind. You don't understand. You're all idiots." (maybe "f-ing idiots".)

Isn't it wonderful to know that those in charge of keeping the peace, be it from gun-weilding psychopaths, troubled teens, or tightly-wound yuppies, are themselves creating a world of hostility and discrimination? Doesn't it just encourage a love for authority? I mean, come on.

Needless to say, this kind of behavior doesn't play into my hopes of creating better, inclusive cities, block by block.

Read All About It: SoWa in the News

I know SoWa is new-to-me, and not-so-new to many of you, but I'm hooked. Last night, after a few cocktails and dinner at Delux, I took a stroll through the South End with the sig oth and an old friend, and once again, I was drawn south of Washington. This neighborhood has a great feel. The wide avenue of Washington, with its new developments and numerous restaurants and shops, feels as though it should overtake Tremont as the main drag dividing South End proper with the newishly named SoWa. And if the Silver Line ever connects to the underground SilverLine to the Seaport District and Southie, a continuous link will exist between two of Boston's most up-and-coming, pedestrian friendly neighborhoods. I can dream, right.

Anyway, due to my newfound intersest om all things SoWa, I keep looking for info about the neighborhood, and I came across this in today's Boston Herald. It appears I'll have more dining options after leavingt the gym, both grab and go and brasserie sit-down, in the next few weeks. Now I just need to make more money so I can grab the grub.

Check it out here.

I know the restaurants mentioned won't appeal to the masses, and will require some big bucks to dine, but unfortunately that's where this neighborhood is already headed. However, the additional night-time activity will bring a more friendly pedestrian vibe after the sun goes down. And that is always a good thing for neighborhoods on the edge of established (safety) comfort zones.

And although these places excite me, I do hope the neighborhood (and the BRA) start to REQUIRE a few more affordable units in future projects. You know, just to round things out. There are a lot of vacant parking lots in the area ripe for redevelopment. So, for every luxury loft and condo, try and consider the little people, and by that I mean the dwindling middle class (teachers, police officers, social workers, URBAN PLANNERS). Many of us help to bring inner city neighborhoods to life, along with the old-timers who never left during the "bad" years. Don't send us off packing to the burbs. And restauranteurs, offer some affordable eats. Sure, we like a nice meal every now and again at the fancy schmance places, but our wallets and purses need some assistance.

SoWa(t) if it Sounds Like A New York Neighborhood

I took my first stroll South of Washington (SoWa) in the South End today. I am always skeptical of neighborhoods playing the very New York neighborhood name game (SoHo, TriBeCa, DUMBO), however, I must admit, I was totally charmed, especially on Harrison. Harrison, with its new and old structures side-by-side, has an appealing pedestrian feel. I liked the restaurants, and soon-to-open restaurants, side by side with galleries, groceries (I think there was one), a gym, apartment complexes, and not-yet adapted industrial spaces. I truly felt happy, content even. It's the type of urban environment that truly appeals to me. A combination of organic and planned neighborhood revitalization with more pedestrians than autos. There is even an orgainized First Friday's art walk. (I love art walks...and the wine that goes with it. I will check this out in September.) And although this area has a very New York sounding moniker, it has a feeling that is definitely Boston. Narrow streets, with smaller streets leading in various directions, with no clear way to know which way was north, south, west or east. But I didn't care. I was content. Happy. And in a transforming urban environment. So, SoWat if the name isn't original, for the first time since my move to Boston, I felt this could very well be the city for me. (Now I just need to find a way to afford the South End in a year's time. Hmmmm...)

Anyway, in the coming weeks, I plan to visit this area a lot, and discuss what I feel works, and why. If anyone has any suggestions of places to go and check out, let me know. Those comments pages are pretty empty. I especially plan to visit the restaurants and galleries. And perhaps work out at the gym. I dropped in today, and it was full of windows. I'm a former New Yorker, so this is unusual to me. Loved it! Loved SoWa!!!

New York, New York, A Hell of a (Flooded) Town

For all those out there who complain about the ineptitude of the MBTA here in the Hub, let's consider that of the MTA in Megacity New York. While Bostonians are busy bitching about delayed or neverending projects such as the Green Line extension or station rehabs (take your pick), New Yorkers have been scrambling to find ways to work because their subways have flooded (several times this year) due to inadequate or malfunctioning water pumps, and antiquated information systems warning commuters of problems. Not that Boston doesn't have its own flooding problems (Big Dig anyone), but here's one issue Bostonians can cheer about. We have dry T tunnels. New York does not.

Where the Streets Have No Name

What is up with Boston and its undeniable lack of street signage. This is absolutely ridiculous in a city where street directions make absolutely no sense whatsoever. There's no easy-to-navigate grid system like in NYC or Philly or Chicago. Instead there's winding, suddenly one-way streets, veering off into never never land, or nowhere nowhere land. Signage is key in such environoments, and not just on tourist-friendly routes intended to show off the historical wonders that await around the corner. There are real residents, Citizens of Boston, that need assistance getting around...even those who've lived here their whole lives. Case in point: I was just in the South End, and a guy asked me, "Where's Tremont Street. I should know, I've lived here my whole life." I told him, "I think you're on it." He was. I was. However, it was confusing. (Note: We were on Tremont Street where it kind of does that S turn.) But I digress. At many an intersection, there's not a street sign in site to let you know where you are. It's a driver (and often pedestrian) mind fuck. And this is coming from someone with an incredible sense of direction. I do. Really. I'm not kidding. Ask anybody. So Boston, get it together. You're a lovely city, make sure people can find your hidden treasures, and still find their way back from some off-the-beaten path route. Get those street signs up, in plain sight, for all drivers to see, not to mention those myriad pedestrians roaming the streets who decide to veer off the Freedom Trail.

UPDATE: The Burger Truly Isn't King

I just read that the Licensing Board turned down the Burger King in Maverick Square last week (I really need to be more up to date with my topics). This is an excellent decision. The corner location is a fantastic retail spot, that would truly benefit the community should a local establishment open up. Well done, Licensing Board. I feel better now.

The Burger is Not King

I like to look up articles or posts about specific Boston neighborhoods in the Globe or Herald or Universal Hub, and then visit them to see what's really going on. Recently, I did a search on Universal Hub about East Boston, the forever talked about up-and-coming neighborhood just across the harbor from downtown and sandwiched between the runways of Logan. (Surprisingly, there's less noise in most of East Boston, than in parts of Southie, Somerville and Cambridge. It's quite odd).

I saw some discussions about new restaurants about to open in Maverick Square, a local place called The Melting Pot, and a new Burger King. While the idea of an independent, local cafe is just what smaller neighborhoods need, a Burger King right in Maverick Square is about the worst idea I have ever heard. Maverick Square is undergoing a major T station renovation project, that upon completion in a year (more likely 2 to 3 in MBTA time) will give the long beleagered square a nice face-lift. New residential projects may potentially be built along the water (however, it's looking like East Pier, aks Portside at Pier One, is in a perpetual state of delay, which often means, dead), and could give the neighborhood some nice luxury units, but also some nice affordable units as well. And the East Boston Main Streets site shows there's been several storefront upgrades over the last few years. The Sovereign Bank on the Northwest corner of the square is a beauty. And the numerous local restaurants serving excellent tacos and bakery items are fantastic, adding a great local flavor to the square not seen in other neighborhoods. And let's face it, Maverick Square is one of the only actual "Squares" in Boston. It's not a triangular area of intersecting streets. It's an actual square. AMAZING!!!

Basically, my point is, the square has great bones, and with proper investment, has the potential to be a real center for the community, not the center for up-to-no-good which often accompanies late-night fast food establishments in underdeveloped areas. And I'm not knocking fast food, I actually love it. But they are not the right fit for good urban, potentially great areas of pedestrian activity. It's too bad The Melting Pot, soon to open (I think) down Sumner Street, didn't lease this location. A corner cafe would have served the area, a great counterpart to the chain Dunkin' up the street. (Then again, Sumner Street has the potential to be a great street with restaurants and shops one day. Perhaps more on that another day.) Instead, the square will get a boring, fast-food, plastic restaurant with no character, charm or nutritional value (no one eats the salads).

SIGH....a missed opportunity, in a really cool neighborhood. However, it has made me more interested in this little nook of a neighborhood, which is truly far more interesting than most in the city.

Hand Sanitizer Please

I've never understood the need for hand sanitizer. It has an awful, chemical scent, and somehow dries away into nothingness, which frankly opens the door for new germs to enter the pores. But I digress. Hand sanitizer is a necessity in the summer because of subway car (or T car, i'm new remember) railings.

There's nothing more disgusting than the chemical reaction that occurs when a sweaty hand makes contact with an air conditioned metal overhead railing. The sweat instantly congeals, forming a gel of sorts between you, the railing, and the former hand holder. A virtual petri dish is instantly formed within the palm of your hand, a swimming pool of germs splashing about joyfully. And to make matters worse, once you let go, the next commuter not only picks up your germs, but the rider before you, and so on, and so on, and so on. It's a miracle we're all alive. It's no wonder city dwellers often catch the dreaded "summer cold".

That said, I'm still very pro subway/T/Metro/El whatever you must ride to get to work in the morning and home at night. I just wish the transition from hot to cold in small confined spaces could be a little less nasty!

New Jersey...sucks!!! At least the New Jersey Turnpike. Never before has a trip from Washington DC to New York, NY taken nearly 10 hours. That's right, ten hours of frustrating, hellish, idiotic drving, or should I say sitting still? New Jersey and it's split pike are retarded. That's right retarded. Let's have the foresight to put up signs detailing traffic conditions on either side of the highway, the local and truck side and the auto only side, but let's only mention the congestion after the split. That's right, after the split. Nevermind that traffic would move more efficiently if there was a notice that one side is flowing at a rapid clip, preventing a several mile long traffic jam for no reason. And don't get me started about the GW Bridge approach. Worse than the turnpike, with the sign warning of traffic at least a mile AFTER the split for the upper and lower decks.

I hate to complain, being that I was the idiot driving instead of taking a train, or better yet, a plane, but that's beside the point. Traffic is going to occur, but it doesn't mean we can't expect our tranist departments to think logically. We have technology today that can pinpoint a car from outerspace, send info to a voice in a box, and tell us to take a right 100 feet ahead. We most certainly should have the same voice telling the signs where more traffic is located, and guide automobiles in the direction of least resistance.

Get it together!!!

But It's Only a Block Away...

People always claim Boston to be one of the most walkable cities in the country. However, it recently came to my attention, that Boston is walkable for a select few: tourists and those lucky enough to live in the Back Bay, South End, North End or atop Beacon Hill. The rest of the city DRIVES everywhere.

My partner and I are recent transplants from New York, and we walk everywhere. Literally. We love to walk. It not only saves on gas, but also keeps the legs lean, and the heart healthy. It also allows us to take in our new neighborhood, and other neighborhoods we travel (on foot) through. It's the beauty of city living, the world at your doorstep, or at the very least a block or two away.

So it came as a complete shock when I asked my upstairs neighbor about the local Mexican place down the street, which he didn't know existed. Nor did he know a package store was next to the taco joint. Nor had he ever been to the gorgeous waterfront park a mere 5 minute WALK away. He said, "I'm not a New Yorker. I drive." Which was confirmed when he and his roommate said they drove two blocks to eat the night earlier. TWO BLOCKS. This little tidbit of information pissed me off. And here's why.

If you want to drive everywhere...LIVE IN THE FUCKING SUBURBS. Why choose to live in relatively cramped quarters, with horrendous auto traffic, in what should be a walkable, sustainable environment, where individuals add less greenhouse gasses per capita than their suburban counterparts, when all you're going to do is friggin drive everywhere? It makes no sense to me. And the pride in which he stated his love for all things auto just rubbed me a very wrong way. Who is this self important ass?

As an urban planner, this attitude and entitled bullshit, makes me want to throw in the towel. What can I possibly accomplish if this is my upstairs neighbor?

Welcome to the Block

I'm an urban planner. Don't hate me. Really, I'm not in it to destroy the urban environment as it currently exists. I truly want to make it a better place. And yes, I admit, we planners often attempt to plan large "redevelopment" initiatives with little respect for human scale, existing character, or the residents that inhabit the actual landscape. We do. But that's not all we do, or care about. That said, though large scale planning is often necessary to spark economic development and solve the ever increasing affordable housing crisis, it often doesn't take into account the very essence of what makes cities and urban enviroments remarkable (and nearby suburbs...but not exurbs) - the neighborhoods themselves.

That is what I want to discuss here. I want to start a dialogue. Yes, you can comment at will. In fact, it's encouraged. I want to talk about what I feel makes a great urban environment, block by block. I may even dissect a few neighborhoods as I see them, or talk about a new park, or restaurant, or condo development. How do these uses effect a neighborhood? And what about the dreaded g-word (that's gentrification, not the spot) Is it bad? Let's talk it up. Basically, agree or disagree, but most of all, talk. Ah, and don't yell. Nobody likes to hear screaming a-holes on the streets outside their door. And I don't like it here. It gets people nowhere. Trust me. I know. I've tried it.

Finally, though I've lived in three of the nation's largest cities, New York, Los Angeles and now Boston, it obviously doesn't mean I even remotely know it all. Though I hope my experiences have helped to inform me and my professional choices. I look forward to providing my thoughts, and hearing yours!

Cheers!