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Commission grants 60-day extension on Wayfinders’ demolition request for 52 Bay Street amid preservation opposition
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Summary
Wayfinders sought to remove a rear carriage-house structure at 52 Bay Street, citing structural damage and infeasibility of rehabilitation; preservation groups and residents urged delay. The commission voted to grant a 60-day extension so Wayfinders can produce additional engineering and funding documentation.
Wayfinders presented plans to demolish the rear building at 52 Bay Street and redevelop the parcel as part of a 'City of Homes' initiative, citing extensive roof and foundation damage and an appraisal that said rehabilitation was not financially feasible (SEG 3560–3630). The applicant said they had conducted Phase I environmental testing noting lead and asbestos and that the rear building has a large roof hole and water damage.
Multiple preservation organizations and residents urged the commission to impose or retain the nine-month demolition-delay period to allow exploration of restoration options; they emphasized the property’s status as a contributing resource in the McKnight National Register historic district and submitted written letters arguing the building is adaptable and valuable (public letters and comments SEG 3760–3899). Commissioners discussed whether a structural engineering/rehab-cost study existed; the applicant said none had been done and asked for time to secure program funding and permits tied to neighborhood-stabilization grants.
After questions and public comment, the commission voted to grant a 60-day extension to allow the applicant to obtain engineering assessments, clarify permit history and pursue or document available funding, with staff to research prior permits and MassHistoric submissions. Attorney advice (Chapter 40C) on the commission’s authority to delay demolition up to 12 months was noted on the record (SEG 4224–4234).
