Overview
- The Boston Zoning Commission approved PLAN: Downtown on a 10-0 vote, giving final city authorization as Chair Michael Nichols recused and Vice Chair Jill Hatton led the session.
- New skyline districts permit buildings up to 700 feet near Washington and State streets, set 300–500 foot limits along the Washington Street corridor, and cap heights at 155 feet in designated sky‑low areas.
- Officials say the plan conforms to the state shadow law and FAA height limits and that the areas allowing 700-foot towers are away from the Boston Common and Public Garden.
- The rules allow residential use across downtown districts, require 20% affordable units in housing projects, and make large lab, hotel, and office developments conditional, with measures to streamline office-to-residential conversions.
- Supporters including the Downtown Boston Alliance cite revitalization and new housing, while the Downtown Boston Neighborhood Association and Friends of the Public Garden warn of added shadows and impacts on historic character.