Maverick Mills Redevelopment
Mixed Use Urban Design
Fall 2016
Since 1636, East Boston has evolved in ways that were once thought impossible. The current landmass that is East Boston was once five individual islands that have been connected through a series of massive landfill projects, culminating in the creation of Boston Logan International Airport. However, even after centuries of development, the waterfront still have room to grow.
Responding to a requirement of 1,000,000 - 3,000,000 square feet of residential, commercial, and public space, this proposal is centered on a radical infrastructural move that connects Chelsea Creek to Constitution Beach through an ecological zipper, thus restoring the landmass to its original form and function. This zipper, composed of a single stream of water and a variety of active and passive landscapes, aides in water purification, flood mitigation, and rain retention while simultaneously providing residents of East Boston with a series of community assets that encourage a healthy and active lifestyle. These assets, including farmers markets, community gardens, a research center, a library, fitness center, and more, are spread along a central boardwalk that engages the surrounding architecture and crosses Route 1A to provide residents with access to the waterfront.
When combined, these layers create an inviting and active space that gives East Boston the social environment it needs.