Among the sale's opponents is city Mayor Thomas M. Menino who feels, according to one of his spokespeople, "What's the rush?" At issue is a crucial CSX rail yard in Allston, and opponents fear it could be impacted if Harvard decides to develop the property. The mayor and others want more time to fully examine the impact of potential development.

A spokesperson for the university has told GlobeSt.com that Harvard sees the property as a long-term investment and that its use will not change in the foreseeable future. She added that Harvard is currently focused on developing its property in North Allston on the other side of the Charles River.

The Authority put the property up for sale this past January, but while Houghton Chemical bid on one of the parcels, Harvard was the only bidder for $75 million for all five parcels.

A city official tells GlobeSt.com that the mayor is not sure why the Authority has to move as fast as it is. "The area is critical to regional commerce," she says. "If there's development there it can either impede or preclude usage. It needs more study."

The Turnpike Authority did not return calls by press time, but the city official notes that, with the recent vote by the board--which was four to one in favor of the sale, the sale will probably go forward.