BU boathouse plan rejected 

By Beth Daley
Globe Staff

The state's top environmental official yesterday effectively rejected Boston University's controversial plan to build a showcase sailing pavilion on one of the widest pieces of the Charles River Esplanade.

While the decision is preliminary, conservationists say it is pivotal for preserving public access to the Charles River now that the once-famously dirty river is getting cleaner. They say the BU pavilion could serve as a model for building expansions, other boathouses or even concession stands as the river becomes more popular.

''It's a great decision,'' said Margaret Van Deusen, deputy director of the Charles River Watershed Association, which has led opposition to the proposed BU pavilion site. ''When a private entity seeks to take over a public land, public interest is paramount.''

Durand found that, while BU's plan met state environmental law, the school should use a less-coveted site. If BU built on its proposed site, he said it might discourage people from visiting that part of the Esplanade ''due to reduced open space and tranquility, creation of shadows and obstructed views.''

Durand said his suggested site, near Kenmore Square in an area called Charlesgate, would draw people to a place now largely ignored by the public.

Boston University officials yesterday said they will consider the Charlesgate location although they worried about getting students to it. The closest footbridge is a brisk five-minute walk away. Officials are concerned students will try to cross the busy Storrow Drive to get to the pavilion.

''It certainly wasn't our first choice, but it's an improvement over what we have,'' said BU spokesman Kevin Carleton. He said Durand's comments would be taken into consideration as BU prepares a final environmental report for the state in the coming months. ''We remain open.''

There is broad agreement that Boston University needs a new sailing pavilion. The old one - in the shadow of the BU bridge in Boston - is too small and runners and bicyclists have to negotiate two dangerous 90 degree turns to get around it. The river is too shallow near its boat ramp and beginning sailors have trouble navigating there. Once a new pavilion is built, BU will raze the old building and landscape the area.

But the area where BU wanted to build the pavilion is one of the widest along the Charles River's narrow banks and residents use it for Frisbee, jogging and even yoga most days. It also offers clear views of Beacon Hill.

Charles River Watershed Association officials say BU initially attempted to circumvent the usual review that forces an analysis of alternative sites and attempted to lock in the location by asking the Legislature to approve it with a two-thirds vote. The bill is still pending.

BU officials deny they were circumventing any process and said it met with several groups before going forward with the project. Officials there also say the pavilion would benefit the public. In exchange for a 25-year lease, BU has agreed to light the area, rebuild a nearby exercise station and construct public restrooms and water fountains. The 25-foot tall, 6,000- square foot project - three times the size of the current pavilion - is expected to cost $3 million.

Technically, BU could appeal Durand's decision in hopes of getting its favored location, but it is doubtful it will, knowing the state's highest-ranking environmental chief is against it. Instead, critics are hoping BU will build near Kenmore Square and possibly help link Charlesgate back to the Fens, now separated by the jumble of roadways.

''Our fear here was that other institutions were looking to relocate or build new facilities,'' said state Representative Paul C. Demakis, a Boston Democrat. ''This will help to ensure other projects are pursued in a more responsible manner.''

This story ran on page B1 of the Boston Globe on 1/16/2002.
© Copyright 2002 Globe Newspaper Company.

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