Special to the Record
The City of Chelsea Department of Housing and Community Development is currently undertaking a design project to improve historic staircases and community open space in the Powder Horn Hill and Upper Broadway areas. The intent of this project is to enhance safety, functionality, and aesthetics of the existing staircases, while beautifying the neighborhood by improving these features.
The Project areas in focus are: the small staircase and grassy area at the intersection of Forsyth Street and Lafayette Avenue; the historic staircase at Franklin Avenue and Spruce Street, connecting Franklin Avenue to Lafayette Avenue; and the historic staircase at Clark Avenue and Crest Avenue, connecting Crest Avenue to Broadway. This project is currently in its concept design phase, with the goal of completing the final design in early summer of 2022. Subsequently, the City will retain a construction contractor to perform the rehabilitation project.
The City will be hosting a virtual community meeting on Thursday, February 17th , 2022 at 6 pm. This will be the first in a series of public meetings designed to provide the community with a chance to learn about the project, share their ideas, and provide feedback on design concepts. Due to the pandemic, the meeting will be hosted virtually or by phone, through the Microsoft Teams video conferencing platform – access information is provided below. All community members are encouraged to attend. Information on remainder of public engagement meetings will follow.
Microsoft Teams Meeting Access Information:
Computer or Mobile App: https://tinyurl.com/PowderhornHillStairs
Call In (Audio Only): +1 857 263 3954,,635518923#
As part of the design program, the City will have various sub-contractors onsite over the next several weeks to begin gathering data necessary for project design. On Friday, January 21st, 2022, the City’s sub-surface drilling contractor will be onsite to collect environmental soil data at each of the project locations. It is anticipated that this work will be completed in one working day and will be of minimal impact to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Approximate drilling locations are provided on the attached maps.
All questions related to the project may be directed to the project contact provided below. Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions or concerns. We look forward to your involvement as we complete these important neighborhood investments.
Project Contact: Alex Train, Director, Chelsea Department of Housing & Community Development
(617) 466-4192