A Model for Getting to Yes… In My Back Yard (YIMBY): Crafting a Shared Vision for Your Community Presented by Erica Mattison, MPA, JD Legislative Director, Environmental League of Massachusetts Board Member, Greater Ashmont Main Street

Meet Greater Ashmont Main Street A non-profit corporation that strives to maintain and further develop the vibrant business district along our 1.1 mile section of Dorchester Ave as a welcoming destination for those from inside and outside the area! Part of the City of Boston Main Streets Program

The Challenge Several developments are being proposed in this section of Dorchester. Some are being vehemently opposed by area residents. Reactions to development proposals are just that – reactive. How do we take a proactive approach that extends beyond just one neighborhood, so that there is consensus among community members and they feel like they are getting the kind of community they want? How do we meet housing needs and create the density where it makes sense to, while maintaining or improving the quality of life?

District City Councilor and Main Streets organization decided to partner to bring together community members from throughout the main streets district, which includes about half a dozen neighborhood associations.

Councilor Campbell and a member of her team

Goals for the Visioning Session Turnout: Needed to have a few dozen people for the process to have legitimacy Inclusivity: Having a broad demographic that reflects the diversity of the community. Not just the usual suspects. Engagement: Needed participants to feel good about the process and excited about the possibilities. Multiple neighborhood associations represented Mix of business owners and residents Mix of ages, races, demographics, longtime residents as well as mid and short term residents

Success! Strong turnout Inclusive High engagement & positivity

Framework: What makes a great place? *Sociability *Uses & Activities *Access & Linkages *Comfort & Image

Brief placemaking presentation by consultant Provided some context, background of where we’re coming from, where we are, where we could go, and what is placemaking about

Survey & Group Conversations

Each Group Shares Highlights Clean, safe, vibrant, more outdoor places to sit/be social, more greenery. Better walkability, bikability, transit. More outdoor community events.

Next Steps Summarize the content Two follow-up meetings this summer Each will feature 2 of the 4 axis of the PPS graphic for 1 hour each Prepare a final document representing our collective vision for development  Present at Fall Meeting Use the finished product to influence the City and upcoming development proposals.  

Current conditions – MBTA “tunnel cap”… closed off to community

Example of possible project: Community Path