Description: Three interviews on southwest corridor mass transit and development project. Areas affected include the South End, Roxbury Crossing, and Jamaica Plain. Construction will create numerous jobs and have an affirmative action goal with a 30% minority set-aside. $391 million (80% federal funds) will be for orange line and railroad relocation; plus an arterial street, community college, housing, and industrial park will make for at least a half billion dollar project. Residents are concerned about impact of noise and disruption in the adjacent neighborhoods, equitable employment opportunities, and environmental issues. Community groups want to be sure the new road and transit routes do not split the surrounding areas along socioeconomic lines.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 07/15/1976
Description: B-roll of the site of a proposed multilevel garage for Quincy Market, which is currently a parking lot between Haymarket and the Expressway. Close-ups on cars in the parking lot. Several takes of reporter standup on the Boston Redevelopment Authority's plans. Exteriors of Faneuil Hall before North Market was developed. Several takes of another portion of reporter standup.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/24/1977
Description: Boston mayoral candidate David Finnegan speaks outside Faneuil Hall in opposition to low property taxes paid by developer of Quincy Market pursuant to deal made with city. He compares the tax rates paid by Faneuil Hall and Milton Street in Dorchester.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/23/1979
Description: Boston waterfront. Dock scenes. Just caught fish in barrels on dock. Lumpers with rubber gloves and overalls. Boston Fish Market Corporation building. Press conference led by Massport director David Davis, who announces renovation of Fish Pier. Rep. Joseph Moakley speaks. He goes over the history of the fishing industry in Boston, Massachusetts, and the United States. He provides details on the redevelopment of the pier, and mentions the effects of the 200 mile limit enacted by Congress. Helen Keyes of the U.S. Dept. of Commerce speaks. George Kariotis, transportation secretary Barry Locke, Lt. Gov. Tom O'Neill are present.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/15/1979
Description: No sound at the beginning of the video. Tape jumps and sound cuts out in the middle. Kevin White gives State of the City address in Boston City Council chamber. He touches on the priorities the city worked to achieve in the past year and will continue to strive for, including fighting racism and discrimination. In audience Kathryn White, Larry DiCara, Dapper O'Neil, Ray Flynn, Maura Hennigan, McDonough, Jane Edmonds, Bruce Bolling, Joseph Jordan, and Robert Ryan. Sergeant at arms with top hat and city seal. Wide shot of chamber from gallery.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/05/1981
Description: Several takes of reporter standup. History of the struggle to develop low income housing on the South End site where the Tent City Corporation is fighting to build. South End environs. Sign for a community garden. Construction workers and equipment starting work at Tent City construction site. Equal Housing Opportunity bulletin. South End apartment buildings. Residents in front of apartments and on balconies. Coffin with "Broke BRA Promises" written on it. Interview with Tent City Corporation representative on their efforts.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/22/1981
Description: Four stories from 1983. 1) Urban development in Boston is an issue in the mayoral race. Helicopter aerial of skyline from harbor. Tilt up Prudential and Hancock towers. Pan of Copley Place. Anthony Tappe of Boston Society of Architects comments on deterioration of Victorian Boston because of the scale of new development, making for a less desirable and livable city. Controversy over Mayor Kevin White's intense involvement in urban planning process is discussed by mayoral candidates at a BSA forum on the future of city planning. David Finnegan, Dennis Kearney, Lawrence DiCara, Robert Kiley, Ray Flynn, Mel King. Robert Ryan, BRA director. Marriott Long Wharf Hotel. 2) The dichotomy between preserving rent control/affordable housing and encouraging free market business development through condo conversions in Boston. Struggle of 87-year-old Hester Hurlbutt of 250 Commonwealth Avenue to stay in her apartment. Mel King comments on housing displacement. Ray Flynn favors ban on evictions. David Finnegan disagrees, worried about economic climate. Scenes of Back Bay, Copley Place, Boston Public Library. Sign for luxury condominium for sale. Mayoral candidates Dennis Kearney and Lawrence DiCara campaigning. 3) Latino voters will have an impact on Boston's mayoral race. Alex Rodriguez, Jorge Hernandez, Yohel Camayd-Freixas endorse Mel King. Jose Masso, Gov. Dukakis' Hispanic liaison, says Latinos will split ideologically according to their respective nationalities. 4) Joseph Nelson and Mabel "Matty" Matheson talk about the tradition of the Fenway Victory Gardens. Other plot tenders revel in the therapeutic value and beauty of gardening. Views of flower beds and vegetables.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 1983
Description: Press conference statement followed by Q&A. Discussion of 2 courts decisions. One that requires half of construction in Boston goes to Boston residents is not unconstitutional, with additional mention of minorities and women. The other decision is an injunction on the police plan. Kevin White and Robert Ryan (Head of BRA), answers questions, along with other White administration officials.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/28/1983
Description: In this story on linkage, Christy George gives history of Boston development boom and affordable housing decline. She describes proposed linkage between the two in the form of taxes on new development, the proceeds of which would go toward affordable housing. Kevin White press conference. Interview with Bruce Bolling on his proposed linkage law. Interview with housing advocate Robert McKay, who is also on the committee reviewing the linkage law. There is a discussion of how exactly linkage will work. Kevin White, Ray Flynn, Larry DiCara, and Dave Finnegan all weigh in on linkage as a mayoral campaign issue.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/16/1983
Description: Mel King (candidate for mayor of Boston) attends a meeting of the Tent City Corporation, chaired by Joan Tighe (chairwoman, Tent City Corporation), regarding the development of the Tent City site. Tighe says that the group will work to maintain affordable housing units at the site and to scale down a proposed plan for a parking garage on the site. Crowd sings happy birthday to Tinghe. Christy George interviews King about his position on housing issues and those of his opponents Ray Flynn (candidate for mayor of Boston) and David Finnegan (candidate for mayor of Boston). King criticizes condominium conversions and talks about the need for a strong rent control program. King discusses the link between employment and housing, and says that the community needs more low- and moderate-income housing units. King notes that the federal government is not aware of the housing crisis across the nation; he adds that the federal government needs a better housing policy.
1:00:04: Visual: Mel King (candidate for mayor of Boston) enters a room where a meeting about the Tent City Development is being held. White and African American attendees sit on either side of a long table. King greets a few of the attendees, then sits down near a window at the side of the room. Joan Tighe (chairwoman, Tent City Corporation) reviews the goals of the Tent City Corporation. Tighe says that the Tent City Corporation aims to be the sole developer of the Tent City site; that they will work with the mayor to maintain affordable housing units at the site; that they will work to scale down a proposed plan for a parking garage. The meeting is adjourned. Meeting members tidy up the room. King greets the attendees. Meeting members and King sing "Happy Birthday" to Tighe. King continues to greet attendees. 1:05:22: V: Christy George interviews King. She asks him about his position on housing and about the positions of his opponents Ray Flynn (candidate for mayor of Boston) and David Finnegan (candidate for mayor of Boston). King talks about the need for a strong rent control program and criticizes condominium conversions. King says that new public housing must be built. King says that there is a link between jobs and housing; that people need employment in order to afford housing. King says that the city and the voters must lobby the federal government for a better housing policy. George asks about the differences between King's position and the positions of Flynn and Finnegan. King says that housing must be community-based; that the community needs low- and moderate-income housing. King says that there are other housing issues besides rent control and condominium conversion; that public housing must be protected and improved; that the city must work to provide more housing. King says that he would like to investigate the possibility of a city-wide housing and finance program. King adds that the federal government needs to be aware of the housing crisis across the nation; that the nation needs a good federal housing program. George comments that there are differences between King's position and Finnegan's position. She asks about the differences between King's position and Flynn's position. King says that he has been involved with groups like the Tent City Corporation, who have worked to provide housing. King notes that Flynn has not advocated for a federal approach to the housing crisis. King talks about the need for a tenant equity program in Boston. George thanks King and closes the interview. The crew takes cutaway shots of George and King. George and King speak informally.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/19/1983
Description: Barney Frank (US Representative) and Mel King (candidate for mayor of Boston) shake hands in front of the Massachusetts State House. Frank has endorsed King for mayor of Boston. Christy George interviews King in front of the State House. King talks about the current policies of the White administration and White's recent appointments to the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA). King says that his administration would eliminate the BRA in order to consolidate city development under a community development office. King criticizes White for making mayoral appointments without regard for his successor. King adds that the current police commissioner must be forced to resign. King says that the Boston City Council should not approve White's new housing proposal. He adds that the City Council should wait until the next mayor is elected before making new policy.
1:00:05: Visual: Mel King stands in front of the State House with his supporters and talks to the media about his candidacy for mayor. He talks about the "politics of inclusion." A reporter asks King how he feels about being "Barney Frank's second choice." King says that Barney Frank (US Representative) makes good choices; that he is glad to be one of Frank's choices. Mel King thanks the media. He shakes hands with Frank. Frank and King speak to one another. 1:01:12: V: Christy George sets up an interview with King. George asks King if Kevin White (Mayor, City of Boston) is consolidating power. She also asks him about mayoral appointments to city jobs. King says that political patronage is unfortunate; that White has not considered his appointments from the viewpoint of his successor. King says that the police commissioner must be asked to resign; that the new administration must work around the commissioner if he refuses to resign. George comments that the business community is wary of King and Ray Flynn (candidate for mayor of Boston). She asks if White is making appointments to the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) before the mayoral elections in order to satisfy the business community. King says that the new administration must take a balanced approach to development; that the needs of the whole city must be considered. King says that his administration would consolidate the development functions of the city; that his administration would work to eliminate the BRA board as it is now; that a community development office would oversee development in the neighborhoods and in the downtown area. George notes that White's appointments to the BRA are not unusual for a mayor leaving office. King says that these candidates will be "holdovers"; that "holdover" appointments should only be allowed for a minimum period of time; that these appointments undermine public confidence in government. George asks King about White's plans to create a Neighborhood Housing Trust. King says that he hopes that the Boston City Council will not approve the program until a new mayor has been elected. King says that he will lobby the council not to approve the program. George ends the interview.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/21/1983
Description: Meg Vaillancourt interviews Sterling Anderson of the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN) outside of the Dudley Branch Library about the lack of affordable housing in the Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan areas. Anderson says that the city is not doing enough to provide affordable housing for low-income residents. Anderson questions the city's definition of low-income. He adds that most residents do not make enough money to meet the city's definition of low-income. Anderson and a group of ACORN protesters march to the offices of the Boston Redevelopment Authority on Washington Street in Dudley Square. Anderson and the protesters enter the office and confront Ricardo Millet of the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) about the city's affordable housing policies. The protesters read a list of demands including that 70% of all new developments in the area must target low and moderate-income residents. The protesters demand information on all new planned developments in the Roxbury/Dorchester/Mattapan neighborhoods. Millet discusses the city's affordable housing policy with the protesters. He gives them handouts including a list of planned developments in the area. Millet says that the BRA is trying to provide affordable housing despite a lack of subsidies from the federal government.
1:00:14: Visual: A fire engine pulls out onto Washington Street. Elevated train tracks are visible. An African American firefighter operates the rear of the truck. Cars pull to the side of a congested street to let another fire engine pass. 1:01:22: V: Meg Vaillancourt sets up an interview with Sterling Anderson (ACORN). Vaillancourt asks about the march organized by ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) to protest the affordable housing policies of the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA). Anderson says that redevelopment in the areas of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan is not geared toward the current residents of those areas; that ACORN is trying to put pressure on the mayor and the BRA to include housing for current residents. Anderson says that most of the residents of those areas do not make more than $13,000 per year; that one-bedroom apartments are selling for $18,000 in one of the new developments. Anderson says that Ray Flynn (mayor of Boston) deserves credit for developing housing; that these efforts are insignificant if the residents of these areas cannot live in the new housing. Anderson talks about how poor people have been thrown out of areas like the South End. Anderson says that the residents need housing, not shelters; that the city needs to commit itself to affordable housing. Anderson says that the city defines low income as a salary of $18,000 to $23,000 per year; that the city defines a moderate income as an income of $23,000 per year. Anderson says that he defines low income as under $13,000; that he defines moderate income as $13,000 to $24,000 per year. Vaillancourt asks if the city is really serving its lower income residents. Anderson says that the city is not serving those residents; that a lot of people cannot afford housing; that the city is pushing low-income residents out of the areas of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan. Vaillancourt asks if race is the issue. Anderson says that it is an economic issue; that the low-income residents of Roxbury are African American; that there are low-income whites with the same problems in South Boston, Chelsea, and East Boston. Vaillancourt asks if Anderson doubts Flynn's commitment to the neighborhoods. Anderson says that he respects Flynn; that Flynn needs to understand that low-income residents are committed to fighting for affordable housing; that he needs to help these people. Anderson says that he cannot afford to give up on the fight for affordable housing; that he will have no place to live in five years if he does not put up a struggle. Anderson says that shelters are not the answer to the housing problem; that poor people do not want to live in shelters. Anderson says that there are some people who benefit from shelters; that the majority of people with low incomes are intelligent and hard-working. Anderson says that he hears the same statistics from the city at every meeting on affordable housing; that the city needs to make a commitment because working people cannot afford housing right now. The crew takes cutaway shots of Vaillancourt and Anderson. Anderson says that the BRA says the same thing at every meeting; that public housing advocates are always pushing for more low-income housing. Anderson says that 70% of the housing in the areas of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan needs to be for low- and moderate-income people. Anderson says that people in these areas have no place to live, despite the BRA's commitment to affordable housing; that developments in these areas should be priced at $35,000 instead of $65,000. 1:08:18: V: Housing protesters gather on the sidewalk on Washington Street, outside of the BRA's Dudley Office. The elevated train tracks are visible. The protesters chant, "We want housing. We won't wait. 2, 4, 6, 8." The protesters gather behind a banner reading, "ACORN." Shot of the BRA sign above the entrance to the office. The protesters march slowly into the BRA offices. The protesters chant, "What do we want? Housing. When do we want it? Now." The majority of the protesters are African American. The protesters file into the building. 1:10:48: V: The housing protesters enter a large room swith chairs set up for a meeting. The protesters chant, "2, 4, 6, 8. We want housing. We won't wait." The protesters stand at the side of the room, holding protest signs and chanting. Shot of a sign reading, "Third notice: Please be advised that you are required to build affordable housing." Shots of individual protesters. Ricardo Millet (BRA) sits in one of the chairs in the meeting room. He watches the protesters with interest. Millet invites the protesters to sit down. Anderson says that the protesters will remain standing. Anderson addresses Millet. Anderson says that there is a housing shortage in the areas of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan; that the BRA housing policy is ineffective; that residents of these areas need housing that they can afford. Anderson says that the newly developed housing target people with incomes of at least $23,000 per year; that most residents make less than $13,000 per year. Anderson says that the BRA and the city of Boston need to make a commitment to low-income housing; that 70% of the new development needs to target low-income residents. Anderson demands information on new developments planned for the Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan areas. Anderson says that the BRA has not been forthcoming with that information; that the BRA needs to work with developers work with developers who have committed to building low-income housing. 1:14:34: V: An African American woman addresses Millet. She reads a list of ACORN demands: the cessation of development on Fountain Hill by June 15 unless the development is 70% affordable to those with low- and moderate-incomes; 70% of all new housing must target low- and moderate-income residents; that ACORN wants information on plans for new development in the area. Another protester says that the 70% quota applies to housing in the Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan areas; that many residents of these areas make less than $13,000 per year; that an average income is more than $26,000 per year. The protester says that the voices of the poor must be heard. The protesters applaud. Anderson asks for a map of planned developments in the Roxbury/Mattapan area. Anderson says that the protesters will not allow new developments to be built if they cannot live in them. Millet stands to face the protesters. He listens as Anderson speaks. 1:16:10: V: Millet addresses the protesters. He invites the protesters to sit down and to discuss the issues with him. Anderson says that the protesters have been sitting in meetings for months; that the protesters want a list of the planned developments in the area. Millet says that he has never been asked for a list of the planned developments before now. Millet offers to provide the protesters with a list of projects currently undertaken by the BRA. Millet gives copies of a handout to the protesters. Millet notes that the BRA, under the Flynn administration, has approved 912 units of housing. Millet adds that the handout includes a list of approved projects as well as their locations, developers and affordablility. Shot of the printed handout. Millet says that 60% of the units in the approved developments are affordable to low- and moderate-income people. Shot of statistic on the handout reading, "60.4% of units below market rate." Anderson asks Millet to define low- and moderate-income. Millet says that the BRA will work with the protesters on the issue of low-income housing; that the BRA and the city want to respond to the needs of low-income people. Millet notes that it is hard to achieve these goals because the federal government has stopped subsidizing housing. Millet adds that the city has done well to achieve a 60% affordability rate in its new projects. Millet gives out copies of another handout. Millet explains that the handout covers the BRA's and the city's positions on affordable housing; that the handout describes the problem of affordable housing. Millet notes that the city is aware of the housing shortage. Anderson says that he gets the same responses every time he meets with the city and the BRA about housing; that no one is responding to their concerns. Shot of the crowd of protesters. Millet says that he has met with ACORN representatives in the past; that the BRA agrees with ACORN on the need to provide affordable housing; that the BRA is trying to achieve these goals without subsidies from the federal government. Millet stresses the fact that the BRA is committed to achieving these goals; that the BRA is trying their best to build affordable housing; that the BRA's achievement of a 60% affordabliltiy rate is remarkable.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/28/1986
Description: Marcus Jones reports that a group of minority developers will work with Mayor Ray Flynn and the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) to develop a multi-million dollar complex including office, retail, and residential space in downtown Boston. The complex will replace a downtown parking garage. Jones reports that Flynn's "parcel to parcel linkage program" will link downtown development to development in minority neighborhoods. Jones adds that this project will be linked to a parcel of land in Roxbury. Flynn and the developers, called the Columbia Plaza Associates, hold a press conference to announce plans for the development. Interviews with President of City Council Bruce Bolling and Davis Woo of the Chinese Investment Group about the need for development in minority neighborhoods. Interview with Stephen Coyle, the BRA Commissioner, about opportunities for minority involvement in development. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following items: Community leaders talk about the significance of the African Meeting House and Renovation of the African Meeting House
1:00:30: Visual: Shots of downtown Boston; of construction in downtown Boston. Marcus Jones reports that $7 billion has been invested in construction in dowtown Boston over the past nine years. V: Shot of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) and a group of minority developers. Jones reports that a group of minority developers are working with Flynn through his "parcel to parcel linkage program"; that the developers will work with the Flynn administraton on a multi-million dollar development which will replace a downtown parking garage. V: Shot of the downtown parking garage. Footage of Flynn saying that a united partnership has been created with members of the Asian, African American, and Hispanic communities. Jones reports that the developers have called themselves the Columbia Plaza Associates; that the developers have raised $2.5 million of their $5.7 million goal. V: Shot of an African American developer standing among the group. Jones notes that the developers represent an important part of Flynn's plan to link downtown development to development in minority neighborhoods such as Chinatown and Roxbury. V: Footage of Bruce Bolling (President, Boston City Council) saying that "those who have been factored out will now be factored in." Footage of Davis Woo (Chinese Investment Group) saying that the developers will work toward buiding new housing in Chinatown; that there is not enough housing in Chinatown. Jones reports that city officials expect to see a development with office, retail, and housing space built to replace the parking garage; that the project is valued at $400 million; that $100 million is earmarked for the minority developers who have won the right to co-develop the project. V: Shot of the parking garage; of a relief of the seal of the city of Boston set into the wall of the garage. Footage of Stephen Coyle (Commissioner, Boston Redevelopment Authority) saying that the minority developers have the "inside track" to develop the project; that this project marks the beginning of a "new era" in the city. Jones reports that up to $15 million spent to purchase the land from the city will be spent by the minority developers to create jobs and to build offices, stores and housing on a 5-acre parcel of land near the Ruggles MBTA Station in Roxbury. V: Overhead shot of the parcel of land in Roxbury. Footage of Coyle saying that the Boston economy will remain strong for the next decade; that teams of minority developers will be able to take advantage of new economic opportunities. Footage of Bolling saying that the work of minority developers will ensure future minority participation in the city. Jones reports that city officials will designate a formal development team for the linkage project in the winter; that construction is slated to start in the spring of 1988. V: Shot of the parking garage.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/19/1986
Description: Mayor Ray Flynn holds a press conference in Roxbury to unveil plans for a new housing and commercial development to be built on a vacant lot in Douglass Square. The Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) cleared the land in the 1960s and never rebuilt on the lot. The owners and developers of the new project are African American. Flynn and City Councilor Bruce Bolling talk about the new development. Flynn says that all neighborhoods and all residents must share in the growth of the city. Bolling says that the proposal for the creation of Mandela, Massachusetts is a no longer an issue. Bolling and other Mandela opponents believe that the new development signifies a renewed commitment to the Roxbury neighborhood by the city of Boston.
1:00:10: Visual: Footage of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) at an outdoor gathering in Roxbury. Flynn stands under a tent, addressing a crowd. Flynn talks about the vote against the proposal for the creation of Mandela, Massachusetts. Flynn says that the vote shows that the racial polarization of the city is in the past. Shot of the gathering from the back of the tent; of an architectural model. David Boeri reports that Flynn is advocating affordable housing and economic opportunity in every neighborhood. Boeri notes that Flynn unveiled a plan for a project in Douglass Square; that the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) cleared a two-acre plot of land in Douglass Square in the 1960s; that the lot has been abandoned since then. V: Shot of a mural on the wall of a building in Douglass Square in Roxbury; of buildings in Douglass Square; of a vacant lot in Douglass Square; of architectural plans and an architectural model. Boeri reports that a housing and commercial complex is slated to be built on the vacant lot; that one-quarter of the units will be set aside for low-income housing. V: Footage of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) saying that the project addresses the need for economic re-investment in Roxbury. Boeri reports that the developers and owners of the project will be African American; that Bolling noted that Roxbury is becoming a full and equal partner in the city of Boston. V: Shots of African American crowd members; of an African American man standing beside an architectural drawing of the project. Footage of Bolling saying that the incorporation of minority neighborhoods into a new city is a dead issue. Boeri reports that Flynn had a unity breakfast with Roxbury leaders this morning; that Flynn pledged to make the city of opportunity for all. V: Shots of the crowd at the gathering. Footage of Flynn saying that all residents need to share in the city's growth and prosperity; that development of the downtown must be accompanied by development of the neighborhoods. Boeri stands in the vacant lot in Douglass Square. Boeri says that the lot has represented an empty promise by the city of Boston to the people of Roxbury. Boeri says that Bolling and other leaders fought the idea of secession from the city. Boeri adds that these leaders say that the plans for the new project are a signal that "their time has come."
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/05/1986
Description: Former Boston Redevelopment Authority director Ed Logue tours and comments on development downtown and in Charlestown and Cambridge. He talks about housing prices, the vitality of different neighborhoods, and urban design. He decries prominent glass towers as insensitive to surrounding historical buildings. International Place, Exchange Place, Rowes Wharf, waterfront, Athenaeum. Audio goes out at the very end.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 12/26/1986
Description: Interviews with North End residents giving their opinions on the Central Artery construction. They say since they will have to deal with ten years of construction, the state should give something back to the North End, like more affordable housing. Christy George compares the Central Artery situation with the Southwest Corridor work that happened in the South End. George interviews city planner Ken Kruckemeyer, who explains why the South End project was so successful. Interviews with South End residents giving positive reactions to the parks and other changes that have taken place.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/03/1987
Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) has undertaken extensive renovations and repairs on the Mission Extension Housing Project and the Bromley Heath Housing Project. Mayor Ray Flynn and City Councilor Bruce Bolling attend a groundbreaking for the construction projects. Five buildings in the Mission Hill Housing Project have lain empty for a year, and the tenants have be relocated. Interview with Doris Bunte of the BRA., who talks about the need to renovate the buildings. Bunte notes that there is a waiting list for public housing. Interview with public housing tenants Lance Ross, Anna Cole, Matilda Drayton, and Shirleen Steed about the conditions at the project and about the renovations. Following the edited story is additional b-roll footage of the housing projects.
1:00:09: Visual: Footage of city officials, including Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) and Bruce Bolling (President, Boston City Council) at a groundbreaking ceremony for renovations on the Bromley Heath and Mission Hill housing projects. Shots of the projects; of a sign on a building reading, "Mission Hill Health Project." Meg Vaillancourt reports that construction work will not start on the housing projects until next month; that the buildings will be renovated and repaired; that tenants will be able to move into the projects by 1990. V: Footage of Doris Bunte (Boston Housing Authority) saying that it is scandalous to have units boarded up while there is a waiting list for housing. Shots of people walking among the empty project buildings. Vaillancourt reports that five buildings in the Mission Hill Housing Project have stood empty for almost one year; that 14,000 families are on the waiting list for public housing. Vaillancourt notes that the Mission Hill Extension Projects were built in 1952; that plumbing, lighting, and security problems caused many tenants to move out. V: Shot of a project building with a broken street lamp. Footage of Vaillancourt interviewing a group of African American project tenants. Footage of Lance Ross (19-year resident of the Mission Hill Housing Project) talking about the "deplorable" conditions in the project. Ross says that the area was not safe for children. Shots of the empty project buildings. Vaillancourt walks among the project buildings. Vaillancourt reports that the tenants talked about a sense of community in the project; that the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) relocated tenants to projects across the city when redevelopment began. V: Footage of Ross saying that some tenants were forced to move three or four times; that the community has been broken up. Shot from a moving car of the project buildings. Vaillancourt reports that Ross and several other former tenants attended the groundbreaking celebration; that the renovations will cost $35 million. Vaillancourt notes that the renovations include trees and play areas for children. V: Shots of the project buildings; of the area near the housing project; of a child walking near a dumpster in the paved area around a project building. Footage of Ross and the former tenants talking about the renovations as they walk through the project. Vaillancourt reports that 300 families will move into Bromley Heath and the Mission Hill Extension within eighteen months. V: Footage of the former tenants talking about the renovation project. Anna Cole (Mission Hill Extension tenant) says that she had been afraid of being forced out of the neighborhood. Matilda Drayton (Mission Hill Extension tenant) says that she hopes to have a good home in the Mission Hill Extension one day. Shirleen Steed (Mission Hill Extension tenant) says that the project is her home. Shot of a young African American girl walking among the empty project buildings.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/15/1987
Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that the city of Boston is experimenting with a parcel-to-parcel linkage program to promote development in both the downtown area and in the outlying neighborhoods of the city. A new development project has linked a development in Chinatown to the development of Parcel 18 near the Ruggles MBTA station in Roxbury; the developers had to agree to develop both parcels of land. Vaillancourt reviews the details of the proposed development in each neighborhood. Interview with Stephen Coyle of the Boston Redevelopment Authority about the linkage project. Coyle says that the city is linking desirable downtown sites to sites in other neighborhoods in an attempt to bring jobs and services to the neighborhoods. Mayor Ray Flynn, Governor Michael Dukakis, and City Councilor Bruce Bolling at a press conference in Roxbury talk about the benefits of the linkage project. The Columbia Plaza Associates are a group of minority developers who will most likely develop the sites in Chinatown and Roxbury. Vaillancourt reviews the city's criteria for the development project. The project may bring more jobs and better housing to the Roxbury neighborhood. Following the edited story is b-roll of the area near the Ruggles MBTA station. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Jesse Jackson campaigns for president in New Hampshire
1:00:06: Visual: Footage of Stephen Coyle (Boston Redevelopment Authority) saying that public land is being used to create "community equity." Shots of a street in Chinatown.<br /><br />Meg Vaillancourt reports that a new development project will affect two communities; that a parking garage and another lot on Essex Street will be developed into office space, retail space, a hotel, and moderate-income housing. Vaillancourt adds that land near the Ruggles MBTA station in Roxbury will be developed into a commercial center with two office buildings, a cultural center, and mixed-income housing for over 150 families. <br /><br />: V: Shots of a parking garage in Chinatown; of the area near the Ruggles Street MBTA station in Roxbury.<br /><br />Vaillancourt notes that developers who wanted the land in Chinatown had to agree to develop the land in Roxbury. <br /><br />: V: Shot of shoppers on a street in Chinatown; of African American commuters entering the Ruggles MBTA station. Shot of a sign reading, "Parcel-to-parcel linkage program project #1. Kingston-Bedford/Parcel 18."<br /><br />Vaillancourt reports that the parcel-to-parcel linkage program is the first program of its kind in the nation. <br /><br />V: Footage of Coyle saying that the downtown sites are desirable to developers; that the city is linking downtown sites with sites in other neighborhoods; that the city would like to bring the service economy into other neighborhoods. Coyle says that Roxbury can benefit from a service economy, especially with the new MBTA orange line trains. Footage of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) addressing a crowd seated outside of the Ruggles MBTA station. Flynn talks about the necessity of good jobs, affordable housing, and neighborhood revitalization. The crowd applauds. The crowd is mostly African American. Shots of an older African American woman in the crowd.<br /><br />Vaillancourt reports that the $400 million project will provide benefits to both communities; that the projects will create more than 2,000 jobs in construction; that the projects will provide more than 8,000 permanent jobs when complete. <br /><br />V: Shots of construction workers working on building sites. Footage of Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) saying that these projects will prove to students that there are opportunities for them if they stay in school to be trained. Shot of the audience members. Footage of Bruce Bolling (President, Boston City Council) says that the projects are about the "economic mainstreaming" of those who had been factored out of the process. Shots of an African American woman and her child in the audience; of an African American man at the podium.<br /><br />Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury and Chinatown residents met with the Columbia Plaza Associates; that Columbia Plaza Associates are the minority developers of the projects. Vaillancourt notes that the Columbia group must satisfy five criteria before being officially designated as the developer of the projects. Vaillancourt reports that the group must expand minority and community participation in the project beyond 30%; that the group must develop a plan with clear community benefits; that the plan must get maximum benefit from the $6.6 million in linkage funds; that the project plans must be sensitive in scale and design; that the group must find private investors who promote community ownership and who will insure the projects. <br /><br />V: Shot of the Boston skyline from area near the Ruggles MBTA station. Text on screen lists the city's criteria for development. Footage of Coyle being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Coyle says that the plan requires that the land be put to use for the community. Shot of an African American woman holding her child.<br /><br />Vaillancourt stands in front of the Ruggles MBTA station. Vaillancourt reports that Roxbury community activists blocked a 1970 plan to extend an interstate highway; that the plan would have destroyed several area neighborhoods; that the activists argued for more jobs, more housing and better transportation. Vaillancourt notes that the project looks like it will fulfill the wishes of those community activists.:
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/12/1987
Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports on a protest by Cambridge activists against plans proposed by MIT to develop a parcel of land near Central Square. Protesters accuse MIT and the developer of misleading the public by underestimating the size and scope of the project planned for the Simplex site. Bill Cavellini from the Simplex Steering Committee and Ken Campbell of MIT discuss the plans for the site. Vaillancourt reviews the plans for the site. The protesters differ with MIT over the amount of low-income housing to be built on the site and on the definition of low-income housing. Bill Noble from the Simplex Steering Committee criticizes MIT's definition of low-income housing. Cambridge activists and the homeless community are at odds with one another over the most effective form of protest against the development. At a protest, a scuffle breaks out between one of the activists and a homeless man. Community activist Mel King tries to make peace between the two sides. The Cambridge City Council will soon vote on the planned development. Following the edited story is additional b-roll footage of students on the campus of MIT in warm weather.
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of a group of protesters marching through a snowy lot near Central Square in Cambridge, chanting "We say no to MIT." Meg Vaillancourt reports that a small band of Cambridge activists are protesting the development of 27 acres of land owned by MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology); that MIT is working with Forest City Developers to build a multi-million dollar research and development complex; that the proposed site is known as the Simplex site. V: Shots of protesters standing near a sign for University Park at MIT; of the sign for University Park. Footage of a protest leader addressing the crowd of demonstrators. The protesters carry signs. Vaillancourt reports that the activists claim that developers deliberately misled the public; that the developers underestimated the size and scope of the project. V: Footage of Bill Cavellini (Simplex Steering Committee) saying that the developers told the public that they would build a $250 million development; that the developers will build a $500 million development. Cavellini tells Vaillancourt that the activists received documentation about the development from a confidential source. Cavellini says that Forest City Developers have been deceptive and have breached the public's trust. Footage of Ken Campbell (MIT) saying that the activists got hold of documents from October of 1987; that the Cambridge City Council approved the plan for the site in December of 1987; that the plan approved by the Council includes 400,000 square feet of housing. Shot of documents and information distributed by the opponents of the plan. Vaillancourt reports that the University Park Development Plan includes housing, a hotel and a 12-screen cinema; that a four- to six-screen theater had been discussed by the developer in public. V: Shot of a vacant lot in Cambridge, covered with snow; of a group of people standing outside of a house in Cambridge. Vaillancourt reports that opponents say that numerous zoning changes will be required to build the project, including the widening of streets and the removal of the city fire station in Central Square. V: Shot of a group of protesters; of a sign reading, "Cambridgeport has decided to stop MIT expansion." Vaillancourt says that MIT and the Simplex Steering Committee differ on how much low-income housing will be built on the site. V: Footage of Campbell saying that MIT has doubled the amount of affordable housing in the original proposal; that MIT is proposing 100 low-income units and 50 moderate-income units. Footage of Bill Noble (Simplex Steering Committee) saying that MIT's definition of low- and moderate-income is not accurate; that MIT is really proposing moderate- and middle-income units. Vaillancourt reports that there are many homeless people in the area; that activists and the homeless do not always agree on how to oppose the development. Vaillancourt says that the homeless do not think that the protesters are representing the interests of the homeless. V: Footage of a female protest leader addressing the demonstrators and the press. A scuffle breaks out between Cavellini and Carlos (homeless man). Footage of Carlos addressing the demonstrators. Carlos says that affordable housing is not the same thing as housing for the homeless. A female protester yells that Carlos does not represent the views of the community. A shouting match ensues. Vaillancourt reports that Mel King (community activist) tried to bring the two sides together. V: Footage of King addressing the crowd. King says that the two sides must unite to fight against the greed of MIT. Members of the crowd cheer. Vaillancourt reports that the Cambridge City Council will vote on MIT's proposal on Monday.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/07/1988
Description: Hope Kelly reports that the Tent City Housing Complex in the South End will soon open. She notes that the housing complex is named for the protests that began on the site twenty years before. Kelly reviews the history of the Tent City site. Kelly's report includes photos of the protests at the Tent City site in the 1960s. Kelly interviews Betty Meredith (Executive Director, Tent City Corporation) and Michael Kane (Chairman, Tent City Corporation) outside of the housing complex. Kane and Meredith talk about the struggle by South End residents to get the housing complex built. Kane says that affordable housing was not a priority in this part of the city until now. Kelly interviews Mel King (community activist) about the Tent City site. Kelly reports that Copley Place was developed while the Tent City site was ignored. Kelly's report includes a time-lapse arrangement of shots documenting the construction of Copley Place. Kelly reports that 75% of the units in the housing complex are low- and moderate-income units. Kelly interviews Sophie Iglesias (Marketing Director) and Florcie Versailles (Tent City resident) about the housing complex..,
1:00:19: Visual: Shots from the window of a building on Copley Place. Shots of the high-rise buildings near Copley Place; of the South End. Hope Kelly reports on the long-standing controversy surrounding the Tent City site in the South End. V: Footage of Betty Meredith (Executive Director, Tent City Corporation) sitting outside of the Tent City Housing Development. Meredith says that she knew that South End residents would have to fight to get the housing development built. Shot of a man approaching the entrance to the Tent City Development with balloons in his hand. Shots of the exterior of the Tent City Housing Complex. Kelly reports that the Tent City Housing Complex will open tomorrow; that the housing complex is named for the protests that began on the site twenty years ago. Kelly reports that the city of Boston sold a parcel of land in the South End to William Fitzgerald (former Fire Commissioner of the City of Boston) in the 1960s; that Fitzgerald tore down the buildings on the land to make a parking lot. Kelly reports that the buildings on the land had been the homes and residences of many African American South End residents. Kelly notes that the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) had promised to replace the buildings in 1965; that South End residents began to protest on the site in 1968 because nothing had been built. V: Shots of South End residents protesting on the Tent City site; of a protest sign on the Tent City site reading, "People, not cars. This is a place where homes should be." Shots of graffiti on a building reading, "BRA, go away." Shots of police officers on the Tent City site; of tents erected to house the protesters; of Mel King (community activist) being arrested by police on the Tent City site. Footage of Mel King in the South End. King says that the protesters did not believe that the city should allow people to be displaced in order to build parking lots. Kelly reports that Meredith was one of the original Tent City protesters; that Michael Kane (Chairman, Tent City Corporation) joined the protest in the 1970s because nothing had been built. V: Footage of Kelly interviewing Meredith and Kane outside of the development. Footage of Kane saying that the protesters had to block the city from building market-rate housing and a 1400-car parking garage on the site. Kelly reports that the city developed the Copley Place area while ignoring the Tent City site. V: Shot of the Tent City site in the early 1980s. A time-lapse arrangement of shots shows the construction of buildings on Copley Place. Footage of Meredith saying that the protesters had to wait a long time for the development to be built because they did not have the money to develop the land themselves. Footage of Kane saying that affordable housing was not a priority in this part of the city during the 1970s. Kelly reports that Kane and Meredith give Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) credit for the development of the Tent City site. V: Shots of the exterior of the Tent City Housing Complex. Kelly reports that there are 369 units in the Tent City development; that 75% of the units are low- and moderate-income units; that 25% of the units are market rate. V: Footage of Sophie Iglesias (Marketing Director) standing in an apartment in the Tent City Housing Complex. Iglesias says that this one-bedroom apartment has a market rate of $1,000 per month. Shots of the exterior of the housing complex. Kelly reports that low- and moderate-income renters will pay one-third of their income; that some renters will pay as little as $200 per month. V: Footage of Iglesias saying that people are not fully aware of the great need for affordable housing in the city of Boston. Footage of Meredith saying that over 6,000 people applied for the low- and moderate-income units. Kelly reports that priority is given to former South End residents who have been displaced. V: Footage of Kelly interviewing Florcie Versailles (Tent City resident). Versailles says that she would not be able to afford to live in Tent City without help from the government. Shot of Versailles in the lobby of the housing developement. Versailles pushes a child in a stroller. Footage of Meredith saying that the housing development took a long time to build; that the development will be a nice place for people to live.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/29/1988
Description: Marcus Jones reports on the construction of modular townhouse condominiums in Roxbury. He notes that the condominiums are affordable housing developed by a private developer. Jones tours the condominiums with tenant Kay Williams. Interview with Williams and future tenant Wanda Wallace about the condominiums. Interview with Alan Harap of the Bergmeyer Development Company about the modular condominiums. Harap says that the condominiums are an economical approach to affordable housing in Roxbury. Interview with Shay Allan of the Boston Public Facilities Department about the affordability of the condominiums. Jones reviews the price of the condominiums and notes that mortgages are available through the state's home ownership program. Jones notes that private developers can profit from building modular units for affordable housing.
1:00:05: Visual: Shot of a modular housing unit being lowered onto a site by crane. Marcus Jones reports that modular homes are built in factories, loaded onto trucks and placed on plots of land. V: Shots of a driver operating a truck; of a modular housing unit on the back of a truck; of a worker supervising the descent of a modular housing unit onto a site. Footage of Wanda Wallace (future homeowner) holding her infant as she is interviewed by Marcus Jones. Wallace says that she never expected the condominiums to be ready so soon; that she thought the condominiums would be very expensive. Jones reports that Wallace's family and four other families will be moving into the modular condominium townhouses. V: Shot of the site of the condominium townhouses. The townhouses are being constructed. Shot of workers using a drill to put the buildings together. Shot of Kay Williams (future homeowner) and Marcus Jones touring the interior of one of the buildings. Footage of Williams saying that she is happy to be able to afford to stay in the neighborhood; that the neighborhood will be a desirable neighborhood in a few years. Shots of the interior of one of the condominiums; of the bathroom in one of the condominiums. Jones reports that the condominiums are affordable housing developed by a private developer; that the private developer approached the city with the idea for the project. V: Footage of Alan Harap (Bergmeyer Development Company) standing in front of the site. Harap says that the Roxbury condominiums are a pilot project for the company; that there are many vacant lots in Roxbury where affordable housing could be built. Shot of a man directing the driver of a truck. The truck has a modular housing unit loaded onto the back. Jones reports that the 2-bedroom townhouses range from $86,000 to $100,000; that low-interest mortgages are being provided through the state's home ownership program. V: Shot of the interior of one of the townhouses; of the street below from the window of one of the townhouses. Footage of Shay Allen (Boston Public Facilities Department) saying that the homeowners will only need to put down a 5% downpayment on the townhouses. Shot of a crane being used to place one the modular units on a site. Construction workers oversee the placement of the unit. Footage of Harap being interviewed by Jones. Harap says that constructing buildings on site is more economical for large developments; that modular housing is an economical way to put affordable housing on small, scattered sites. Jones stands in front of the townhouse site. Construction continues on behind him. Jones reports that the developers say that modular units can be used to provide affordable housing anywhere; that the demand is great for affordable housing; that the developers will profit from meeting the demand.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 07/28/1988
Description: Marcus Jones reports that state and local officials have come through with funding for a multi-million dollar program to revitalize Grove Hall, which is Roxbury's business district. The area has experienced hard times since the late 1960s. Press conference to announce the revitalization program. City Councilor Charles Yancey and Mayor Ray Flynn talk about the program to revitalize the district. Jones walks through district while conducting an interview with Walter Little, the Executive Director of the Neighborhood Development Association of Grove Hall. Little talks about the revitalization program and the development of the area. Little notes that there is a high concentration of subsidized housing in the area. Little talks about the history of the area, noting that the district once had a large Jewish population. Jones notes that the revitalization program will benefit current and future residents of the area. Following the edited is additional footage from the press conference and Jones' interview with Little while walking through the Grove Hall District.
1:00:23: Visual: Footage of Charles Yancey (Boston City Council) at a ceremony to mark the revitalization of Grove Hall. Yancey says that the revitalized Grove Hall will develop into the best community in the city of Boston. Footage of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) at the ceremony. Flynn says that the concerns of the Grove Hall community will no longer be ignored. Shots of the neighborhood; of signs for the Grove Hall Cafe and the Boston Legal Assistance Project. Marcus Jones reports that state and local officials have finally come through with a multi-million dollar program aimed at revitalizing Roxbury's business district. Jones notes that the area has experienced hard times ever since the riots which followed the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. (civil rights leader) in 1968. V: Shot of Jones in the Grove Hall district with Walter Little (Executive Director, Neighborhood Development Association of Grove Hall). Jones asks about a boarded up building on the street. Shot of a woman crossing the Street. Footage of Little standing with Jones. Little says that three tenants of one building have now become owners of the properties on the block. Little says that local residents must have the opportunity to participate in the ownership and development of a property. Shot of the streets in the area. Jones remarks that Little has lived in this area for forty years. V: Shot of a "No Trespassing" sign on a boarded-up building; of another boarded-up building. Footage of Little saying that the area has the largest concentration of subsidized housing of any area in the city; that there are 2800 subsidized units within the Grove Hall boundaries. Little says that economic balance is important to the survival of a commercial district. Little says that the small shops currently in the Grove Hall area are not enough to support a thriving commercial district. Little notes that many of the current businesses are fairly new to the area. Jones reports that Little remembers when there was a large Jewish population in the area; that Siegel's cafeteria was a popular restaurant in those days. V: Shot of Jones and Little walking on in the Grove Hall District, near a liquor store which once was Siegel's Cafeteria. Footage of Little saying that Siegel's Cafeteria closed in the early 1970s; that they were one of the last businesses to leave the area. Shot of the front of the liquor store; of two women walking on the street. Shot of a boarded-up apartment building. Jones reports that the revitalization plan aims to benefit the current and future residents of the Grove Hall area. V: Footage of Little saying that the money is available for the project; that buildings in the area will no longer be boarded up after the revitalization. Shot of Jones and Little on the street.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/20/1988
Description: Boston Society of Architects has organized a contest asking designers to rethink Boston for the future. Both fanciful and practical entries were encouraged. Exhibit of their drawings. Interview with Steven Cecil of the BSA committee that organized the event. He describes the goals of the contest and highlights some of the entries, including one by Boston architectural firm Communitas. Dramatic view from high window of Boston landscape Hancock tower in center.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 12/08/1988
Description: Marcus Jones reports that the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) is considering a parcel of land in Roxbury for the new headquarters of the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The development of Parcel 18 near the Ruggles MBTA station is seen as a cornerstone to the area's economic revitalization. Interview with Anthony Williams, Assistant Director of the BRA about the proposed development. Williams shows Jones maps of the area and plans for the development. Williams talks about the benefits of constructing the MWRA headquarters in Roxbury. Jones reports that the land was cleared in the 1960s and has lain vacant ever since. Interview with State Rep. Byron Rushing about the proposed project. Rushing says that the community must benefit from any development of the land. Following the edited story is additional footage of the area around Parcel 18 and footage from Jones' interviews with Williams and Rushing.
1:00:05: Visual: Shots of Parcel 18 in front of the Ruggles MBTA station in Roxury; of the entrance to the Ruggles MBTA station. Marcus Jones reports that Parcel 18 is one of six locations being considered as the site for the new headquarters of the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Jones reports that developers and city officials see construction of MWRA headquarters as a cornerstone to the area's economic revitalization. V: Shots of Anthony Williams (Assistant Director, Boston Redevelopment Authority) showing Jones a map of the area. Shot of a map of proposed development in the area. Jones reports that the land has been vacant for more than twenty years. V: Shots of traffic passing by Parcel 18 and the Ruggles MBTA station. Footage of Williams being interviewed by Jones. Williams says that development takes time; that the community must be involved in the development process. Williams says that construction of the MWRA headquarters would allow development to proceed at a quicker rate. Shot through a fence of Parcel 18, Ruggles MBTA station and the Boston skyline. Jones reports that Roxbury has the highest unemployment rate of any neighborhood in Boston; that Roxbury has seen none of the benefits of development in downtown Boston. V: Shot of Jones and Williams looking at a map. Shots of the map. Footage of Williams saying that Parcel 18 is in close proximity to the downtown area. Williams says that the Roxbury neigborhood is centrally located with good access to public transportation. Williams notes that museums and universities are convenient to the site. Williams says that development will proceed quickly when people realize the potential of the site. Footage of Byron Rushing (State Representative) says that there is always risk involved in the development of a site. Rushing says that he wants the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) to promise that the land will be put to beneficial use even if this development fails. Shot of Parcel 18. Jones reports that the site was cleared in the 1960s to make room for the construction of Interstate 95; that the community blocked construction of the highway. Jones reports that the community wants the development to bring jobs and affordable housing to the community. V: Footage of Rushing saying that any benefits from the development of the site must go to the local community. Shots of Parcel 18.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/23/1989
Description: David Boeri reports that African American community leaders and city officials have proposed to build the new headquarters of the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) in Roxbury. The MWRA headquarters would be the cornerstone in a project to develop Parcel 18, located near the Ruggles MBTA station. At a press conference with city officials and African American leaders, Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church), Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council), mayor Ray Flynn, Harold Hestnes (member of "The Vault"), and James Kelly (Boston City Council) all speak out in favor of Parcel 18. The Massachusetts State Legislature is also considering the city of Quincy for the MWRA site. African American leaders are asking state legislators to show their support for the African American community by choosing Parcel 18. State Sen. Paul Harold speaks to the media and says that Quincy is the right place for the MWRA headquarters. At a press conference Paul Levy of the MWRA says that the MWRA site does not have to be in Quincy.
1:00:08: V: Footage of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) at a press conference. Supporters stand behind him. Bolling says that "this project won on the merits." Footage of Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church) saying that the project is very important to the community; that the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) must locate its headquarters on Parcel 18. Shots of the vacant land of Parcel 18 in Roxbury. Shot of the Ruggles MBTA station and the Boston skyline visible from Parcel 18. Shots of traffic on the street near Parcel 18. David Boeri reports that the development of Parcel 18 is part of a plan to bring jobs and development to Roxbury. Boeri notes that the development of Parcel 18 is a $200 million public/private venture; that the venture includes minority developers. V: Shots of two people entering the Ruggles MBTA station. Boeri reports that the MWRA would be the major tenant in the development. V: Shot of Parcel 18. Shot through a chain-link fence of the Boston skyline looming above Parcel 18. Boeri reports that the Massachusetts state legislators are considering other sites for the MWRA headquarters; that supporters of Parcel 18 development are lobbying for the MWRA to be located on Parcel 18. V: Footage of Bolling saying that people of color are told that they will be treated fairly in this country. Bolling says that the process should not be manipulated to prevent people of color from receiving their due. Shots of members of the media and the audience at the press conference. Boeri reports that African American leaders consider the MWRA vote to be a crucial litmus test for state legislators on the issue of race. V: Footage of Stith saying that many "progressive politicians" seem to lack the courage to stand up for their principles. Shots of Bolling; of other Parcel 18 supporters at the press conference. Boeri reports that the coalition at the press conference was assembled by Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston); that the coalition includes members of "The Vault" (Boston's powerful financial leaders). V: Footage of Harold Hestnes (member of "The Vault") speaking at the press conference. Hestnes says that the development of Parcel 18 would create a "climate of financial responsibility." Maura Hennigan (Boston City Council) is visible behind Hestnes. Shots of Richard Voke (State Representative) and David Scondras (Boston City Council) at the press conference. Boeri notes that the coalition is broad enough to include James Kelly (Boston City Council). V: Footage of Kelly turning around to look at the coalition standing behind him. Stith puts his hand on Kelly's shoulder and says, "You're with your own." The Parcel 18 supporters laugh along with Kelly. Shot of a reporter at the press conference. Boeri reports that Flynn believes that the development should proceed because it represents social justice and good business sense. V: Footage of Flynn at the press conference. Flynn says that this is a good opportunity for state legislators to prove their commitment to social and economic justice. Flynn says that the people of Roxbury have been disenfranchised and "left behind" in the past. Shot of a coalition member at the press conference. Boeri reports that the city of Quincy is competing with Parcel 18 for the MWRA headquarters. Boeri notes that Quincy will be the repository of the sludge from the Boston Harbor Cleanup project. V: Footage of Paul Harold (State Senator from Quincy) speaking to the media in a park. Harold says that the issue revolves around the survival of a sewage plant, a sludge plant and a landfill facility. Harold says that Parcel 18 has nothing to do with the real issue. Boeri reports that Paul Levy (Executive Director, MWRA) made a controversial decision today. V: Footage of Levy at an MWRA press conference. Levy says that Quincy must receive a premium from the MWRA; that the MWRA is open to discussing compensation for the city of Quincy. Levy says that compensation should not include locating the MWRA headquarters in the city. Footage of Harold saying that state officials have been ill advised on the issue. Harold says that the issue should have been decided days ago. Boeri stands in front of the Massachusetts State House. Boeri reports that the Parcel 18 coalition is trying to pressure a few state legislators to support Parcel 18. Boeri notes that the votes of those legislators will be necessary for Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) to sustain his veto of any vote which tries to move the MWRA headquarters from Roxbury to Quincy. Boeri notes with irony that the MWRA was created by state legislators to remove politics from the Harbor Cleanup Project.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 07/07/1989
Description: Marcus Jones reports that the Massachusetts State Legislature has passed a bill designating the city of Quincy as the location for the new headquarters of the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Parcel 18 in Roxbury had been chosen as the initial site for the headquarters. Speaker of the House George Keverian and House leadership in the chambers of the House of Representatives. Mayor Ray Flynn , City Councilor Bruce Bolling, and Parcel 18 supporters at a press conference outside of the Massachusetts State House. Flynn and Bolling express their support for Parcel 18. Flynn says that the legislature's decision has undermined public confidence in the government. Governor Michael Dukakis has vetoed the bill designating Quincy as the MWRA site at a press conference. Interview with Reverend Tony Bethel of the Parcel 18 Task Force, who says that he and his supporters will continue to fight for economic justice for Roxbury. Footage of the building in Quincy proposed to house the MWRA.
1:00:12: V: Footage of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) at a press conference outside of the Massachusetts State House. Bolling says that state legislators need to stand with the supporters of Parcel 18; that the supporters of Parcel 18 are on the "correct side." Shots of a crowd of Parcel 18 supporters gathered outside of the State House for the press conference. The supporters hold signs reading, "Parcel-to-parcel linkage" and "Roxbury equals economic opportunity." Marcus Jones reports that the Massachusetts state legislature has passed a bill which designates the city of Quincy as the location for the new headquarters of the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Jones notes that the bill overrules the MWRA's initial decision to build their headquarters on Parcel 18 in Roxbury. V: Footage of George Keverian (Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives) and the House leadership at the front of the chambers of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Shots of the exterior of the Ruggles MBTA station in Roxbury; of the Boston skyline from Parcel 18 in Roxbury. Jones reports that Quincy legislators pushed for the MWRA to settle in an aging industrial building near the site of a sludge facility. V: Shots of officials climbing the stairs of an industrial building in Quincy; of the interior of the building. Shots of the sludge facility in Quincy. Jones notes that Parcel 18 supporters say that the battle is not yet over. V: Shots of demonstrators at the press conference outside of the State House. Shot of a sign reading, "Keep the MWRA in Roxbury." Footage of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) saying that the legislature's decision jeopardizes the citizens' confidence government. Flynn says that the legislature has not shown a commitment to "straightforward, honest government." Shot of Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) signing a piece of paper at a press conference. Members of the media photograph him. Jones reports that Dukakis vetoed the legislature's MWRA bill yesterday; that the legislature will vote next week on Dukakis's veto. Jones reports that Parcel 18 supporters will lobby for the Roxbury site over the next week. V: Shot of the press conference outside of the State House. Shots of demonstrators and audience members at the press conference. A demonstrator holds up a sign reading, "Fairness equals a vote for Roxbury." Footage of Bolling saying that Quincy was not chosen to be the initial site because Quincy did not have the best proposal.The crowd applauds for Bolling. Footage of the Reverend Tony Bethel (Parcel 18 Task Force) being interviewed by Jones outside of the State House. Bethel says that he and his supporters will continue to fight for economic justice for the Roxbury area, even if Dukakis' veto is overruled. Jones reports that Parcel 18 supporters have vowed to continue the fight to bring the MWRA to Roxbury.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 07/11/1989
Description: Hope Kelly reports that the Boston Bank of Commerce is sponsoring the Home Ownership Loan Pool, to encourage homeownership loans for residents in minority neighborhoods. The neighborhoods of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan have received little investment money in the past. Kelly's report includes footage from a press conference with Ronald Homer (President, Boston Bank of Commerce) and community leaders. Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) speaks out in support of the new program. Homer talks about the Home Ownership Loan Pool. Homer says that concessionary-rate lending does not serve the long-term interests of the community. Kelly reviews the details of Homer's proposal. Kelly notes that housing is scarce in Roxbury while vacant lots are plentiful. Kelly interviews Gus Newport (Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative). Newport says that disinvestment has been a problem in the greater Roxbury neighborhood. Kelly, Newport and Gertrude Fidalgo (community worker) take a walk in the Dudley Street neighborhood. Fidalgo says that development of vacant lots will create safer conditions in the area. Kelly notes that new housing developments are planned for the area. Kelly's report includes footage of workers at the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative building.
1:00:09: Visual: Shots of vacant lots in the Roxbury neighborhood of Boston. Hope Kelly reports that vacant lots in Roxbury are only 1.5 miles from downtown Boston. V: Footage of Gus Newport (Executive Director, Dudley Street Initiative) being interviewed near a vacant lot by Kelly. Kelly notes that these lots would have been developed years ago if they were in a different part of the city. Newport agrees with Kelly. Newport says that no bank financing was available to developers interested in the Roxbury neighborhood. Footage of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) speaking at a press conference. Bolling says that there has been "a process of disinvestment" in the Roxbury community for over thirty years. Bolling says that the members of the community must determine the direction of the community's growth. Shots of the attendees of the press conference, including Juanita Wade (Boston School Committee), Charles Yancey (Boston City Council), Gail Snowden (Bank of Boston), Don Muhammad (Roxbury community leader) and Newport. Shot of Mel King (community activist) listening at the entrance to the room. Kelly reports that the neighborhoods of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan have not received much investment money in the past; that a new bank program will provide financing in those neighborhoods. V: Footage from the press conference. Bolling sits at a table with Ronald Homer (President, Boston Bank of Commerce) and two others. African American community leaders stand behind them. Homer talks about a proposal which encourages banks to commit a portion of their loan portfolios to serve the greater Roxbury area. Kelly reports that the Boston Bank of Commerce is the only bank in Massachusetts that is owned and operated by African Americans. Kelly reports that the Boston Bank of Commerce is sponsoring the Home Ownership Loan Pool. Kelly reports that the loan pool encourages banks to set aside $250 million in loans for minority neighborhoods; that $25 million of the loans are to be set aside for first-time home buyers at below-market mortgage rates. Kelly reports that $100 million of the loans are to be set aside for the renovation or purchase of existing housing stock; that $500,000 be set aside for a home ownership and financing resource center. V: Shot of the exterior of the Boston Bank of Commerce. On-screem text and visuals detail the specifics of the Home Ownership Loan Pool. Footage of Homer at the press conference. Homer says that the Boston Bank of Commerce has taken a stand in the past against concessionary-rate lending. Homer says that concessionary-rate lending is not a useful way to serve the community in the long-term. Shots of attendees at the press conference including Newport, Juanita Wade (Boston School Committee) and Charles Yancey (Boston City Council). Kelly reports that Homer and others believe that concessionary-rate lending may be a good short-term solution. Kelly reports that Newport agrees with Homer. Kelly notes that Newport is the former mayor of Berkeley, California. V: Shot of the exterior of the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative building. Shot of Newport standing inside the building. Shots of staff members doing office work at the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative. Kelly reports that the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative was founded in 1984; that the Initiative has eminent domain power and zoning authority over 1.5 square miles of Roxbury land. Kelly notes that housing is scarce in Roxbury; that vacant lots are plentiful in the area. V: Shot of a map of Roxbury in the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative office. Footage of Newport and Kelly standing in front of a map of Roxbury. Newport points out the vacant lots in the area. Newport says that the Roxbury area has the most vacant land of any neighborhood in the city. Shots of Kelly, Newport and Gertrude Fidalgo (community worker) on a snowy street in Roxbury. They pass by a vacant lot. Kelly reports that 364 units of housing are planned for Roxbury; that most of those units will be affordable. V: Footage of Newport saying that disinvestment has been a major problem in the area. Kelly says that the banks are responsible for the initial disinvestment in the neighborhood. V: Footage of Newport saying that it is hard to believe that these conditions exist so close to downtown Boston. Footage of Fidalgo saying that she would not want to walk through this area because there are no streetlights or houses. Fidalgo says that more housing will create safer conditions in the neighborhood. Shots of a vacant lot and the surrounding area.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 12/28/1989
Description: Marcus Jones reports on the competion of renovations at the Renaissance Building in the Grove Hall district of Roxbury. The project was funded with money from the city's only minority-owned bank and was overseen by minority architects and contractors. Jones adds that the building is a cornerstone of the Grove Hall revitalization effort. People hold a celebration for the completion of the restorations. A crowd stands outside of the building. Virginia Morrison (Neighborhood Development Corporation of Grove Hall) and Don Muhammad (Muhammad's Mosque) address the crowd. Muhammad says that gang activity will decline as more renovation takes place in the neighborhood. Interview with Trevor Blake (TTB Construction Inc.) and Ernest Scott, a businessman, about the renovations. Blake talks about the challenges faced by minority businesses and contractors. Scott says that renovations and increased foot traffic will force the drug trade out of the area. Jones reports that the city of Boston has committed an additional $50,000 to the Grove Hall revitalization effort.
1:00:01: Visual: Footage of a gathering to celebrate the restoration of the Renaissance Building in the Grove Hall district of Roxbury. Virginia Morrison (Neighborhood Development Corporation of Grove Hall) addresses the gathering. Morrison says that the building makes a statement on behalf of Muhammad's Mosque, of the Grove Hall Board of Trade, of the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge, of the residents of the area. Morrison says that the building represents the way that the residents of the area intend to live. Shot of a man tearing off paper above the door to reveal the street number. Marcus Jones reports the newly renovated Renaissance Building is located at 483 - 487 Blue Hill Avenue. Jones says that the building was "an eyesore" for more than a decade; that the building is now the cornerstone of the Grove Hall revitalization effort. V: Footage of Morrison addressing the gathered crowd. Supporters stand behind her, including Don Muhammad (Muhammad's Mosque). Morrison says that the building cost $1,276,000 to renovate; that the building was renovated by qualified African American workers from the community. Shot from an upper window of the Renaissance building, of the intersection of Blue Hill Avenue and Cheney Street. Shots of people looking at the interior of the newly-renovated building. Shot of the newly renovated kitchen. Jones reports that the project was funded with money from the city's only minority-owned bank; that the project was overseen by minority architects and contractors. Jones reports that the building includes twelve apartments on the upper floors of the building; that there is retail space on the bottom level. V: Shot of a man exiting the Ernest Scott Insurance Agency. Footage of Trevor Blake (TTB Construction Inc.) standing in one of the apartments. Blake talks about the challenges faced by African American businesses and contractors. Footage of Ernest Scott (businessman) saying that the whole neighborhood is improving. Jones reports that Scott's Insurance Agency has operated on Blue Hill Avenue for over thirty years. Jones notes that Scott's business is one of the new tenants in the Renaissance Building; that Scott believes that businesses and residents need to fight the gangs and drug dealers in the neighborhood. V: Shot of the exterior of the Ernest Scott Insurance Agency. Shot of a man fixing lettering to the interior of a window of the Insurance Agency; of an employee and customer at the Insurance Agency. Footage of Scott saying that foot traffic and business activity puts a damper on the drug trade. Scott says that participants in the drug trade will be forced out of the area. Shots of traffic on the street in the Grove Hall area; of the crowd gathered in front of the Renaissance Area. Jones reports that community organizers hope to refurbish the entire Grove Hall district within five years; that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) has committed an addtional $50,000 to the effort. V: Footage of Muhammad addressing the crowd outside of the Renaissance Building. Muhammad says that the Grove Hall community deserves the same respect and resources as any other neighborhood. Muhammad says that gang activity will dwindle as more renovation takes place in the neighborhood. The crowd claps for Muhammad. Morrison approaches the microphone.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/12/1990