MBTA eyes developing Riverside station

MBTA officials are in the initial planning stages for a development that could shape the end of the Green Line.

With the help of prospective developers, Newton's Economic Development Commission and area residents, the regional transit authority is considering possible facelifts to the expansive parking lot at Riverside Station.

While no proposals have yet been generated, Alderman Amy Sangiolo said there is room for a 1.7 million-square-foot development that could include some combination of housing and retail.

"We are currently talking to residents in the area to see what things the community can live with and things the community can do without," said Sangiolo, an Auburndale resident, who stressed that these discussions are still in the early stages. "But, no matter what they do, it will have a tremendous impact on Grove Street and the neighborhood."

Already the area has faced traffic issues, and neighbors have campaigned for the installation of traffic-calming devices.

"Traffic has been a major concern for the [community]," said Josh Krintzman, president ofthe Lower Falls Improvement Association. "We need to be careful, ensuring that any developments don't exacerbate the problems already existing in the neighborhoods."

He added, "Our approach thus far has been to get a sense of the neighborhood in a proactive, constructive way."

While the Lower Falls Improvement Association has met multiple times to discuss a development, residents of other abutting communities will begin meeting in the early fall.

"We wanted to wait until everyone got back from summer vacations," said Sangiolo.

MBTA officials will wait to hear feedback from the community before beginning a formal proposal process.

"The community process will assist in providing valuable feedback to prospective developers who may express interest in the property," wrote MBTA spokesman Joe Pesaturo in an e-mailed statement. "The information generated through the community process would include the types of property, uses envisioned and the size and scope of a possible development."

Asked how residents are reacting to a possible development and if it would benefit the neighborhood, Sangiolo responded, "There are all different ways to measure benefit. But the majority of people here are quite concerned."

Chrissie Long of The Newton (Mass.) TAB can be reached at clong@cnc.com.