Thank you for signing your letter of support! Simply copy and paste the text below into a word processing program (such as MS WORD) and type in your name and address at the bottom. Then email your letter to logos@bostonbackbay.com




April 1, 2010

Richard Lukas
American Planning Association
1776 Massachusetts Ave., NW – Suite 400
Washington , DC  20036

Dear Richard:

I’d like to register my support for the recognition of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood as one of the America’s Great Neighborhoods. The Back Bay is one of the Great Places in America because of its excellent mix of beauty, livability, and business. Its history, architecture, and consumer offerings make it a vibrant tourist destination, yet in addition, the Back Bay also serves as a powerful economic engine for the region. This brilliant mix of uses and positive qualities make the Back Bay a perfect candidate for the America’s Great Neighborhoods award.


The Back Bay is a shining example of balanced urban design. Its accessibility is unmatched, with public transportation to and from the neighborhood and wide pedestrian promenades where visitors can reach every corner by foot. Strolling down Newbury and Boylston street one can enjoy a tasteful cluster of fine restaurants, galleries, cafes, and rows of trendy retail establishments, while enjoying an architectural display representative of design from nearly every decade. Rows of fine Victorian brownstone homes and more than ten churches from the 19th century sit adjacent to modern towers such as The Prudential Center, John Hancock Tower and 111 Huntington. And amid the densely built .66 square mile area, the Back Bay still manages to have beautiful green spaces that offer a respite amid the bustling city environment. The Charles River Esplanade, Commonwealth Avenue Mall, Copley Square, and the Boston Public Garden are all located here.


The Back Bay is also a thriving commercial district that hosts companies of the highest caliber. In particular, the finance, insurance, real estate, and education industries are strongly represented here. In addition, its no surprise that the hospitality sector booms with over 20 hotels and boutique accomodations. Tourists visit from around the world to see the finish line of the country’s first marathon, the first public library, and the first botanical garden. The Back Bay is a marvel of urban design, a one-of-a-kind tourist destination, and an essential driving force for the regional economy. For these reasons I hope it is honored with the APA’s “America’s Greatest Neighborhoods” award.


Sincerely,


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