Oct. 30, 2006
Mr. Gerald Autler, Senior Project Manager
Boston Redevelopment Authority
One City Hall Square
Boston, MA 02201-1007
Subject: Wheelock College
Dear Mr. Autler:
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Institutional Master Plan Notification Form/Project Notification Form for Wheelock College's planned new buildings.
The Boston Groundwater Trust was established by the Boston City Council to monitor groundwater levels in sections of the City where the integrity of building foundations is threatened by lowered groundwater levels and to make recommendations aimed at solving the problem. As such, my comments are limited to groundwater related issues.
I appreciate Wheelock's acknowledgement that their campus lies within the Groundwater Conservation Overlay District and their stated intent to incorporate systems that will meet the requirements of Article 32. I also appreciate their commitment, offered during the scoping session, that they would be offering more details as the projects proceed through the Article 80 process.
Because the planned structures incorporate some below grade space, including a parking garage in one of the buildings, it will be important for the geotechnical engineers to demonstrate that the construction and operation of the structures will not have adverse effects on groundwater levels. Again based on comments offered during the scoping session, I am confident that they will be able to do so; but it will be important to see the details. Also important will be the details of how the project will meet the recharge requirements imposed by Article 32. Since these structures will be permitted separately, each of them should be required to meet the recharge standards.
Wheelock appears to be off to a promising start in addressing groundwater issues. I look forward to working with them, their consultants, and the Authority to ensure that the standards are met in a way that best satisfies both groundwater requirements and the needs of the college.
Very truly yours,
Elliott Laffer
Executive Director
Cc: Maura Zlody, BED
