Parcel 24: Basic Information

What is Parcel 24? 

Parcel 24 is a 70,000 SF plot of land became available because of the Central Artery (or “Big Dig”) Project.

Official Big Dig Web Site

Where is it?

Parcel 24 is on the east side of residential Chinatown, toward the Southeast Expressway.  It is where a highway off-ramp, the “Turnpike Extension,” is now.  The Turnpike Extension is just below Kneeland Street.  It is where cars exit off 93 South or Kneeland Street and onto the Massachusetts Turnpike.  This ramp will be moved when the Big Dig is completed in 2004, creating a narrow strip of land in its place.  

What is the history of Parcel 24?

Before the Turnpike Extension was built in 1962, the Hudson and Albany Street area south of Kneeland was once a vibrant residential neighborhood of Chinatown.  Construction of the Turnpike Extension caused many homes and businesses in that neighborhood to be destroyed.  Most notably, the east side of Hudson Street, where there were once groceries, restaurants, and homes, has been replaced by a concrete embankment.  This section of Chinatown, affected by air and noise pollution as well as physical ugliness, has declined ever since. 

Why is Parcel 24 important to Chinatown?

Parcel 24 is important to Chinatown because it was once part of Chinatown. Furthermore we know the residents of the former neighborhood were insufficiently compensated for the loss of their homes.  From a planning perspective, Parcel 24 creates an opportunity to heal a neighborhood that has been “amputated,” in that an active neighborhood was literally cut off.  Furthermore, Parcel 24 can expand Chinatown’s residential base to the east and be Chinatown’s link to the other “Gateway” parcels (25, 26a and 26b, 27) which will connect Chinatown with the South Station and Fort Point Channel development areas. 

Who currently owns Parcel 24?

Parcel 24 is owned by the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority (MTA).  As project manager for the Big Dig, the MTA is responsible for leasing Parcel 24 for development.

More info:

Read Boston Globe Article on the history of Hudson Street and the Big Dig (Dec 2002)

View Web Log on the Parcel 24 Campaign

Read about ACDC's bid to redevelop Parcel 24

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