Utile is thrilled that the Union Square Neighborhood Plan was awarded the 2015 Comprehensive Planning Award by the American Planning Association Massachusetts Chapter (APA-MA)! The year-long planning process placed community consensus at the forefront, making sure all perspectives were brought to the table early. The outreach campaign and public process were spearheaded by the City of Somerville and directed by the Principle Group. Utile was the urban design and graphics lead, instrumental in rethinking the design and operation of streetscapes and public spaces in Union Square.
Additionally, the project team collaborated on a master plan for the development of Boynton Yards, a future job center and transit-oriented development that will provide a mix of commercial, residential, retail, and open spaces. This development, and associated infill sites in the core of the square, move the City of Somerville toward meeting the goals of its comprehensive plan. Collaboration between the client (the City of Somerville) and consultant group—as well as the constant feedback loop established between the community and the City—has resulted in a plan that is wholly inclusive by nature and in principle.
