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Planning Board accepts Avalon Bay design update for Lechmere‑area open space and multiuse path, asks for refinements
Summary
Avalon Bay presented an updated design for the NorthPoint open space and a multiuse path under the Lechmere viaduct; the board praised the concept and voted to conclude the design update while asking for clearer spatial organization, more plantings where feasible and seating with backs.
The Planning Board reviewed an updated design for the open space and multiuse path at NorthPoint presented by Avalon Bay and its landscape team and concluded the design update with a vote in favor of continuing detailed review.
Project background: The open space and multiuse path were part of a special permit originally approved in 2015 but delayed by MBTA Green Line work and MassDOT highway projects. Avalon Bay and consultant Koffley Wolf showed a revised layout that fits within MBTA and MassDOT easements and ties to the newly built bike/ped improvements along Monsignor O’Brien Highway.
Design highlights: The plan retains a central planted triangle, introduces a compact dog park, adds multipurpose seating elements and 'Lechmere' letter‑scale seating, incorporates salvaged granite and historic track‑alignment trestle elements, and adds fitness equipment and water/bottle filling elements. Designers noted limits to planting under the viaduct because of shade and seasonal irrigation constraints and proposed durable, textured paving and seating material there.
Board feedback: Staff requested a stronger sense of spatial organization to make the plaza more legible and suggested using contrasting paving and a clearer arrangement of furnishings and plantings to define activity zones. Board members recommended more pedestrian‑scale lighting, seating with backs, and further study of planting feasibility along the southern edge and near MassDOT property lines. The team agreed to refine details in continuing review with CDD and MBTA and to prioritize durable, low‑maintenance materials.
Vote and next steps: The board voted (7‑0) to conclude the design update and asked staff and the applicant to address the memo’s continuing‑review list (hardscape, fencing, signage, lighting and planting details) before final sign‑off. Avalon Bay said MBTA has given conceptual approval and a construction license is near completion; the team said it expects to begin work once final permits and agreements are in place.
— Reporting from the Cambridge Planning Board meeting transcript, April 15, 2025.
