Several sites, not one development
Boston City Properties’ December 2020 account described multiple redevelopment efforts around Roxbury’s Nubian Square, formerly Dudley Square. Blair Lot, the historic Nawn Factory and Parcel 8 had different proponents and different review questions.
For Blair Lot, Nubian Square Ascends proposed a mix including an approximately 48,000-square-foot artisan market, office space and a food hall. The Nawn Factory discussion involved reuse of an approximately 11,000-square-foot historic building, with wellness and arts-oriented concepts under consideration.
Three alternatives for Parcel 8
The article outlined three competing Parcel 8 bids. NUBA LLC proposed more than 100 homes, an affordable component, 10,000 square feet of commercial space and a satellite museum for the National Center of Afro-American Artists.
Nu Gateway proposed a 15-story structure with 103 homes, including 73 affordable homes, plus a public market and arts center. Janey Construction and New Urban Collaborative proposed a mass-timber project with 130 rental homes, 60,000 square feet of retail and an 8,000-square-foot plaza, alongside cultural organizations.
Competition and community uses
Those were alternatives, not approved components to be added into one total. The cultural spaces, housing affordability and reuse of a historic factory were significant parts of the discussion alongside commercial development.
The December 2020 article reported plans moving through selection and review. It did not prove that any bid was subsequently chosen, that a proposed museum opened or that homes or business spaces are available today.
Historical attribution: Original Boston City Properties article, December 2020. Reported claims and attributed assessments have not been independently refreshed.