Neighbors, I am part of a group that has been working for several years toward the improvement of Mass Ave from Harvard Sq. to Porter Sq. I would like to invite you to a meeting to discuss our plan. January 13th - 6 pm Graham and Parks School Linnaean Street We would like to see the city formalize a Conceptual Streetscape Master Plan for Mass Ave from Waterhouse St. to Upland Rd. This will include improvements now underway at the new Harvard Law School building and the yet to be constructed Art Institute of Boston and Lesley's campus Porter Sq., but also befitting the businesses along the way and the residential communities abutting this unique section of the Avenue. The city has agreed to hire an independent consultant to develop a concept plan, which will focus on pedestrian safety, an enhanced streetscape and standards for sustainable development. The consultant, working with the city, would compile all of the pertinent information from the city, business owners, residents, and leading sustainable development concepts from other cities, both nationally and internationally. A Steering Committee consisting of the city's lead department representatives, the design consultant, and neighborhood representatives would be charged with the development of a concept plan for all street improvements: intersection improvements; pavement layout, tree and other plantings, mini parks, sitting areas, street art, etc. Moreover, they would establish state-of-the-art standards for such improvements which consider total life-cycle costs, including maintenance, with an eye toward improving longevity (as in sidewalk trees). While Mass Ave is a state road, and there is no immediate money in the budget for its improvement, there will be short-term development at and around both of the university sites, as well as other unexpected repairs (water mains or other infrastructure work) and updates (to intersections or pavements) over time. The concept plan developed will be used to guide any such repairs, updates, and any new developments over the years. On January 13th, we hope to give you a fuller understanding of this undertaking, and to hear your ideas and issues. I hope to see you there, so that we may have your input as well. Ruth Ruth A. Ryals 115 Upland Rd. Cambridge, MA 02140 617-547-6453 617-834-4007 cell rryals@comcast.net