Related Beal filed a Letter of Intent to the Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) on Friday, Jan. 26 with plans to bring a vibrant mix of commercial uses to their Kenmore Square redevelopment project, stating that they will maintain the Citgo sign that sits on top one of the buildings slated for redevelopment.
“We are thrilled to begin the redevelopment of this key block in the heart of Kenmore Square, and look forward to working with the City, the BPDA, and members of the community during the review process,” said Patrick Sweeney, senior vice president at Related Beal.
The Citgo sign is still under review by the Boston Landmarks Commission to potentially become a historic landmark within the city.
Related Beal has entered into a long-term ground lease from the Trustees of Boston University for the following properties: 11 – 19 Deerfield St., 541, 535-539, and 533 Commonwealth Ave., 660, 656, 652-654 and 650 Beacon St. and 642-648 Beacon St..
The project site currently contains about 310,000 square feet devoted to office space, institutional, retail, and restaurant use, with some vacancy within nine structures ranging from two to six stories each.
The buildings will include below-grade parking and streetscape and public realm upgrades throughout the project site to enhance the pedestrian experience in Kenmore Square.
Related Beal hopes to establish a Planned Development Area to encompass the entire project site and will obtain zoning relief as necessary for the project. Certain buildings will need approval from the Bay State Road/ Back Bay West Architectural Commission and are under review of the Boston University Institutional Master Plan.
“We believe this project will further the evolution of Kenmore Square while celebrating its rich character, and presents a unique opportunity to expand the City’s business base and enhance the pedestrian experience,” said Sweeney.