A mixed-use development pitched by developer MG2 that hopes to transform an empty corner of Maverick Square received Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) board approval at the board’s June meeting.
The 7,200 square-foot vacant lot at 2-10 Maverick Square that has been historically used as a parking lot will be transformed into an attractive, six-story building that will house 25 residential rental units that will include three income-restricted units. The six-story building will also contain bicycle storage and a trash/recycling room on the ground floor.
What made the proposal attractive to residents during community meetings is that MG2 will approximately 10,710 square feet of commercial/retail/restaurant space to the square as part of the project.
The project will provide an additional unique high density housing opportunity for the area with easy access to public transportation because it is located directly opposite the MBTA’s Blue Line Maverick Station.
In planning the building, great care was given to respecting the abutting properties, which share boundaries with the site, as well as modifications made during preliminary community outreach process with direct abutters. As a result, the proposed building has been designed and scaled to compliment other current and future potential developments in the area and the surrounding streets including Maverick Square and Sumner Streets.
“The newly approved project will bring approximately $40,000 in community benefits,” the BPDA board wrote in its decision. “These include improvements to the public realm around the project site and throughout Maverick Square. Additionally, mitigation from the project will help fund a future “Transportation Action Plan” for the PLAN: East Boston study area.”
The BPDA kicked off PLAN: East Boston this past summer. The ongoing planning initiative is working with the community in the existing neighborhoods in East Boston that are facing increased development pressure. Community discussions are focused on the preservation of the existing residential fabric, enhancement of the vitality of existing residential communities and businesses, anti-displacement strategies for residents and businesses, connectivity along the waterfront, mobility, and flood protection and climate resiliency.