Mayor Fuller: Washington St Master Plan Moves Forward

FromThe City of Newton: Mayor Ruthanne Fuller is excited to start the process of bringing together residents and businesses to pro-actively plan the future of the Washington Street corridor.

With the help of talented planners, elected officials and in-depth community input, the goal is to develop a zoning plan that reflects a consensus vision for the main thoroughfare from West Newton Square to Newton Corner. The City Council on Monday approved hiring the Principle group as Mayor Fuller requested. They are expected to have a final master plan and the associated zoning for the Washington Street corridor ready in the next 13 months, which was one of the priorities of her first 100 days in office. “This process will guarantee that developers conform to the city’s vision, not the other way around,” Mayor Fuller said. Principle, the firm that will do the master planning, was chosen for its ability to work intensively with the community to develop a detailed plan that includes such areas the mix of office, retail and housing, open space, building heights and density, automobile, bicycle, pedestrian and mass transit alternatives. “They are an unusual firm that has the unusual capabilities we are looking for. It’s a critical investment,” Mayor Fuller said. The firm’s work can be seen in a range of cities, including Union Square in Somerville. The planners from Principle will not only hold community meetings, but will also have “open studio” session on Washington Street to listen and to learn the concerns and desires of residents and businesses. The fiscal impact of potential land-use and development decisions, and the economic development opportunities will also be vetted. “I’m excited to get started on the future of the Washington Street corridor. Let’s come together, get working and take charge of Newton’s future,” Mayor Fuller said.

Image Courtesy of The City of Newton