"We were very pleased with both proposals," MassPike's chairman Matthew J. Amorello. "But the selection committee felt that the Y proposal best satisfies the requirements for the development of Parcel Six."

The YMCA wants to build a five-story, 125,000-sf building that would include two swimming pools, a gymnasium, a health and wellness center, rooftop play area and running track. More than half the building would be leased to compatible non-profit groups.

Parcel Six was the first developable parcel along the Greenway that is being created by the Big Dig, the city's massive highway project, to go out to bid. Twelve other parcels along the 1.7-mile corridor are also slated for development. The remainder of the land, which makes up the bulk of the 27 acres that will be created when the old Central Artery is torn down, will be left as open space, creating park system that stretches from North Station to Chinatown.

The 40,000-sf Parcel Six is situated between New Chardon, New Sudbury, Cross and North Washington streets and lies at the nexus of the North End, Government Center and the Bulfinch Triangle. Development will take place over five ramps that lead into the Route 93 tunnel.

Under the 1997 legislation creating the Metropolitan Highway System, the Turnpike Authority was directed to oversee development along the Greenway. The recommendation will be brought to the MassPike's board of directors for final approval. Amorello adds that MassPike would work closely with the city and the Boston Redevelopment Authority to help the YMCA further refine its proposal.

Instant Insights /

YMCA Chosen for First Surface Artery Parcel

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