The old granite rectory building owned by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston (RACB) that sits on the corner of Randolph and Reedsdale could be torn down in the coming weeks. The RACB has requested and been granted a demolition order.
The move will undoubtedly generate some strong feelings. The building has historic significance. There was a recent attempt to develop the property but the developer, Anthony Recito, and the parish were unable to come to agreement with the planning board on an acceptable proposal. The developer sought to take down the building and put in a residential development. The board did not approve the plan and Member Alexander Whiteside drafted a zoning article that proposed to create a historic overlay that would preserve the existing building and permit more housing that current residential zoning allows. The developer did not find that option attractive and withdrew.
The Historic Commission became involved in September of 2011. A public hearing was held and the Historic Commission had a stay put on the demolition order. That stay has expired and the Archdiocese is seeking to move forward with removal of the structure. The Archdiocese had been seeking a buyer for the property for some time and believe that removing the structure will enhance the property’s marketability.
The situation bears a faint resemblance to the Hendries property on Eliot Street. Each property had an element treasured by members of the community. Hendries had a majestic black oak tree; St Elizabeth’s has an historic granite home. In both cases the condition of the asset was debated. Just as the black oak’s health was debated so too has there been some disagreement about whether the granite home can be rehabilitated at a cost that is not prohibitive. Connelly Construction removed the tree citing liability and safety concerns. It surprised the neighborhood. The demolition of the granite rectory is likely to come as a surprise also. The owners feel they have explored all avenues and need to move forward with what is in their best financial interests. Removal of the structure will increase attractiveness to potential developers. A variety of options have been mentioned in the past including a funeral home, residential, retail, and assisted living. The property is zoned for residential.
The demolition comes at a potentially transformative time in the history of the town. There will be an item on the November ballot that would have the town join the Community Preservation Act. Participating in this state program puts a surcharge on property tax bills. The amount is partially matched and given back to the town to be used for historic preservation, open space, and affordable housing initiatives (Please find related articles on the CPA here). The town has also recently formed a committee to take the first steps in a new Master Plan. It is yet to be determined if either will be fully realized. The voters could turn down the CPA and the Master Plan may never make it past the visioning phase. However, if both move forward they would open up options, alternatives and opportunities for properties like St. Elizabeth’s.
The Joseph Howe House