December 3, 2007
Mr. Jay Rourke, Senior Project Manager
Boston Redevelopment Authority
One City Hall Square
Boston, MA 02201-1007
Subject: Simpson Parcel 1, Bulfinch Triangle
Dear Mr. Rourke:
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Project Notification Form for the Simpson Parcel 1. 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 for solving the problem. As such, my comments are restricted to groundwater related issues.
I was pleased to note that the PNF acknowledges that the project is located within the Groundwater Conservation Overlay District. In the Bulfinch Triangle, the GCOD requires qualified projects to show that they will not cause reductions in groundwater levels, but it does not require a recharge system. As noted in the section 3.8 of the PNF, the project will include a below grade utility room and duct bank. I was pleased to read that the proponent plans to have these sections of the building fully waterproofed with no underslab drainage. The GCOD requires that there be a stamped certification from a registered professional engineer demonstrating that the design will not cause a reduction groundwater levels on site or on adjacent lots. I look forward to seeing this certification.
The PNF notes that the proponent has reached out to the Trust to discuss the project. I look forward to working with the proponent and the Authority to assure that the project cannot have a negative effect on groundwater levels.
Very truly yours,
Elliott Laffer
Executive Director
Cc: Kathleen Pederson, BRA
Maura Zlody, BED
