Stand with Roxbury: Support the Harrison Lenox Project on Dec 11th!

Written By Reclaim Roxbury

We are thrilled to announce that the Harrison Lenox project was officially approved for development on public land in Lower Roxbury this past April, and since then Phase 1 of the project has been fully approved! This milestone reflects years of tireless advocacy for equitable, community-driven development, marking a critical step toward ensuring that public land is used for the public good. This past year we engaged our membership and community on their thoughts on the two developer proposals, and succeeded in advocating for strong community standards in the RFP's.

The next key milestone for this transformative project is the approval of a Planned Development Area (PDA) overlay district under which the future Phases 2-5 will be permitted. 

The vote to approve the PDA will take place at the Zoning Commission meeting on Wednesday, December 11th from 9:00AM-12:00PM (specific time slot and agenda to follow).

The project is facing racist push back, and we are calling on community members to come out and show support. Read more below:

A Vision Realized

The Harrison Lenox project, led by Related Beal and DREAM Collaborative, will bring 400 income-restricted housing units to Roxbury, including:

       Nearly 80 condos for first-time homebuyers.

       330 rental apartments, with 100 units set aside for seniors.

       Open spaces for community events and gatherings.

       Co-working and incubator spaces to foster local businesses.

       A culinary training facility, empowering residents with valuable skills.

This development reflects Roxbury's vibrant cultural heritage while addressing critical housing and economic needs. It is a direct result of a robust community-led planning process, demonstrating the power of resident voices in shaping the future of our neighborhood.
 


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Overcoming Racist Opposition

While we celebrate this victory, we must also acknowledge the racist pushback from some South End residents, amplified by biased media outlets like Fox News. These opponents have weaponized harmful stereotypes to oppose affordable housing, perpetuating stigma around homelessness and addiction. Let us be clear: these attacks undermine the dignity and humanity of our neighbors in need of housing and support.


A Call to Action: Support Us on December 11th 9am-11am virtually


The fight isn’t over. The Worcester Square Neighborhood Association has escalated its opposition, spreading misinformation to block the Harrison Lenox project. We cannot let these efforts delay the transformative, community-driven work we’ve achieved together.

Join us on December 11th to stand in solidarity and show your support for the Harrison Lenox project. Let’s send a clear message: Roxbury deserves affordable housing, and public land should serve the public good.

      What: Show your support for the Harrison Lenox project

       When: December 11, 2024, 9am- 11am (VIRTUAL)

  •        Create your own letter and submit to the Zoning Commission before Dec 11th:

            - Zoning Comission: zoningcommission@boston.gov
            - Template: 20241202_BWSC_SupportLetter (1).pdf 

Your voice is crucial in countering this opposition and ensuring this project moves forward without delay.


Thank You for Your Support

This victory is a testament to the power of community organizing, but our work doesn’t stop here. Together, we will hold all stakeholders accountable and ensure that the Harrison Lenox project fulfills its promise to the Roxbury community.

Stay informed and engaged by joining our newsletter, becoming a member, volunteering, and following us on social media. Join us on December 11th, and let’s continue building a better Roxbury for all!

Reclaim Roxbury
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