Creating a name for a new project – especially when the goal is to transform more than 35 acres of currently underused space at the nexus of two neighborhoods – is no small task. For “Dorchester Bay City” the starting point for that discussion was simple: the location is the project’s biggest asset and would be a key factor in its success. Dorchester Bay City is located at the nexus of two historic neighborhoods – Dorchester and South Boston, adjacent to the shoreline, near public transit and cultural and academic institutions.
From the beginning, our goal has been to tie these neighborhoods together, creating improved access to the water, park, beach, and Harborwalk.
“The authentic places and textures that make amazing destinations are already here,” Accordia co-managing partner Kirk Sykes told the Boston Globe. “What we need to do is connect the dots and bring the community and the city to the place where all of these things happen.”
Although the shoreline adjacent to DBC, which includes existing public parks and beaches, is a major benefit, climate change, storm surges and rising sea level must be addressed. Resiliency is top of mind for team members and our design elements protect both the project site and its surrounding neighborhoods. By elevating the overall site, connecting to existing resilient infrastructure, and creating more public open space, we aim to reduce the risk of sea level rise and decrease heat island effects.
It has also been a priority from the outset to assure that the adjacent residential communities of Dorchester and South Boston benefit from these projects. An extensive community engagement strategy has informed the overall design, public benefits and focus on nearby infrastructure. The Accordia team has also integrated strategies for maximizing employment opportunities for local and diverse talent. Dorchester Bay City is poised to generate thousands of construction and permanent jobs, accompanied by comprehensive training and educational programs to develop the skills necessary for nearby residents to work at the companies that will someday occupy these spaces. With ground floor locations designed to encourage local and diverse entrepreneurial shops and restaurant owners to occupy these spaces, we hope to create both opportunity, affordability, and inclusivity.
It's essential to emphasize that Dorchester Bay City is not about creating a city within a city; rather, it is about enhancing the existing fabric of Dorchester, our beloved home. Our endeavor embodies the ambition of the site and the multitude of benefits it can bring to the community and the city as a whole. Through local outreach efforts, transformative improvements, sustainability, and accessibility efforts, we envision a vibrant and resilient future for Dorchester Bay City and the residents of Greater Boston.