JACKSON SQUARE REVITALIZATION

More than 30 years ago, eight acres of land at a strategic crossroads between Jamaica Plain and Roxbury – Jackson Square – were razed for planned construction of an I-95 extension. 

A grassroots, multi-neighborhood mobilization defeated the highway and catalyzed a new movement for community control.  The JPNDC was one of several new organizations formed by residents with a vision: healthy urban communities in which development activities involve, respect and benefit the people who live in them.

The blighted land around Jackson Square, a reminder of JPNDC’s roots, today presents a tremendous opportunity to realize our goal of community-controlled development.  In 2004, following years of community pressure, the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) requested proposals from potential developers for the Jackson Square land.  The BRA’s requirement that developers implement the vision forged by more than 800 residents in countless community meetings – affordable housing, small scale commercial development, and a youth and family center – was a tremendous victory.

The redevelopment of Jackson Square will create a new, diverse subneighborhood that restores a key crossroads between Jamaica Plain and Roxbury. 

To take on this tremendous initiative, the JPNDC, Urban Edge, Hyde Square Task Force and a private developer formed Partners for Jackson and secured tentative designation from the BRA.  Our proposal includes

·        429 new homes, approximately 60% of which will be affordable

·        A state-of-the-art youth and family center

·        Small and mid-scale retail space

·        A new plaza and other pedestrian-friendly improvements

We hope to break ground on the first phase of Jackson Square redevelopment in 2009.  Click here for upcoming events or updates.