By José C. Massó III, on behalf of the Crane Ledge Woods Coalition (CLWC)
We remain optimistic for the ultimate success of our positive vision: a “win-win” willing seller acquisition of the 24-acre woodland, led by Mayor Wu and the City of Boston.
To recall, in September 2024 the City of Boston Planning and Development Board reluctantly approved a 204-unit housing project for a portion of Crane Ledge Woods. With the current economic conditions unfavorable for costly new construction, and the need to address climate change only more consequential, the timing is favorable for a respectful financial offer by the City to owner Jubilee Christian Church and their development partner.
Boston’s AAA bond rating means solid financial resources exist to support the “win-win” permanent conservation option, such as through a green bond.
The proposed housing project would result in permanent loss of over ten acres of urban tree canopy, destroying natural habitat and replacing a carbon-sequestering cooling zone in favor of a gated, car-centric heat-island. In addition, the developer’s track record
with organized labor is itself sufficient reason to oppose this project.
As we know, providing housing—and especially affordable housing – is a priority in Massachusetts. This too frequently in the local media pits the need for housing against measures to address climate change, including protection of natural lands.
Our Coalition has consistently advocated for sustainable, equitable housing development. Consistent with this, we have endorsed the Squares + Streets concept plan adopted by the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association after an extensive public process and many community listening sessions.
This development approach would allow as-of-right housing to be built within the Cleary-Logan Squares area, directing density to sites near transit and walkable business districts. A copy of this initial concept map is attached.
We again affirm that protecting nature and providing housing are necessary complements, and that, as our official position, we support housing planned through sustainable, equitable principles.
As we continue our advocacy for the protection of Crane Ledge Woods for public benefit, we were encouraged to be reminded of Mayor Wu’s pledge as candidate to protect Crane Ledge, and her affirmation of the value of these urban woodlands at Harvard in 2024:
“Parks uniquely create an opportunity for all of us to be in connection with each other,” she said. In so doing, they foster democratic values at a time when democracy itself is under threat. “The forest may be the last place we are truly in community with everyone.”, Mayor Wu told her audience in Cambridge. With these values in mind, we trust that our optimism is well-placed, and that the positive, “win-win” resolution remains in reach.