A new beginning

Over 40 years ago, Boston's Parcel 24, located on Hudson Street in Chinatown, was a thriving neighborhood. Home to an immigrant community that was predominantly Chinese, but also included Lebanese, Syrian and other ethinc groups.

Children played on the streets. Mothers caught up with their friends at doorsteps. There was a real sense of community in the neighborhood.

Then, in 1963, this neighborhood was part of a series of eminent domain takings by the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority ("MTA") and Massachusetts Highway Department (“MHD”) that substantially reduced the land area of Chinatown. These takings required the displacement of residents from Parcel 24 in order to construct part of the Metropolitan Highway System (i.e., the Central Artery highway structure) and the Boston Extension of the Massachusetts Turnpike.

Approximately 300 families and businesses were displaced...

Currently, the Asian Community Development Corporation ("ACDC") and the New Boston Fund Inc. ("New Boston") have been designated by the MTA to develop a mixed-income community on Parcel 24. The project will provide much needed community housing while restoring the fabric of a primarily residential neighborhood which existed on Hudson Street over 40-years ago.

While the construction of the physical property is scheduled for 2010, the construction of the Hudson Street community is well underway. The development of Parcel 24 has already generated buzz within greater Boston network. Neighbors and former residents of the Hudson Street alike have gathered together to build a new community. This support is not only critical to the success of the project, but also to the future of a vibrant and lively Chinatown.

To continue this momentum, it is important we have your support. If you are a former resident or know of former residents of Hudson Street, we would love to hear from you! Please leave a comment on this blog.