Chiofaro "definitely has it," one source says of the developer'spursuit of the nine-level Harbor Garage. At this point, the partiesinvolved are remaining mum on the negotiations, with brokers atCushman & Wakefield declining comment, while a call toChiofaro's headquarters at his International Place office complexin Boston was not returned by press deadline.

Despite the lack of input, Chiofaro has openly indicated severaltimes that he covets the property, even launching a pre-emptiveattempt back in 2006 to acquire the asset as part of a mixed-usedevelopment plan that could include such elements as office space,a hotel and residential uses. Dominated by the garage, the site isconsidered ripe for additional capacity and uses, although such avision would have to overcome the state's onerous Chapter 91 lawsregulating harbor development and potential opposition from wealthyneighbors in another high-rise condo.

While he would not say whether Chiofaro has the deal tied up,Cushman & Wakefield Capital Markets Group chief Robert E.Griffin tells GlobeSt.com that the asset received considerableattention, and says he considers it among the best developmentsites in New England. "It's a can't-miss project," saysGriffin.