A new neighborhood emerges on the waterfront in Boston’s oldest neighborhood

BOSTON — A new neighborhood will soon be built on the waterfront in Boston’s oldest neighborhood.

“It’s an opportunity to work, to live, to be entertained, to really experience Dorchester and this part of Dorchester in a very different way," Boston City Councilor At-Large Annissa Essaibi-George.

Dorchester Bay City will rise from the asphalt that was the Bayside Expo and Santander Bank on the edge of Columbia Point. Neighborhood leaders say they’re glad this is being developed.

“It’s a vacant lot down there that hasn’t been maintained very well," said Desmond Rohan, the president of the Columbia Savin Hill Civic Association.

Accordia Partners filed a detailed plan Wednesday outlining the development of 34 prime acres into commercial, residential and recreational space. In a statement, partner Kirk Sykes said, “We are transforming underutilized parking lots and demolished buildings into a diverse and inclusive new destination.”

A new neighborhood emerges on the waterfront in Boston’s oldest neighborhood A new neighborhood will soon be built on the waterfront in Boston’s oldest neighborhood.

Last year Accordia signed a 99-year lease of the bayside space with UMass Boston. That could net the University up to $235 million dollars.

Rohan had concerns but so far is happy with the progress.

“A lot was about open space, access to the shoreline and climate change issues,” said Rohan. “[But] they really listened to us.”

The biggest concern now is transportation and the MBTA in particular because thousands more people will eventually call this area home.

“We just need to make sure the MBTA can handle that level of individuals," said Rohan.

And for all of them, Essaibi-George says creating opportunity and access is vital.

“Always of concern and interest is creating affordable opportunities for Dorchester residents to make Dorchester their home," said Essaibi-George.

Cox Media Group