Originally modeled after the Piaza del Campo in Siena, Italy, Boston City Hall Plaza’s expansive brick layered surface has proven to be problematic for accessibility, maintenance, and overall public outlook. “The problem is that, unlike a medieval plaza in Tuscany, the City Hall Plaza is not surrounded by small merchant’s shops that are people-friendly and that introduce scale,” says Kate Tooke. “We have a windswept brick expanse with a 26-foot change in grade that presents issues of accessibility,” she explains. “The space has always been used to host events and is fun when it’s filled with people. But otherwise, it’s not.”

The article also addresses the challenge of dealing with the train station located directly below the plaza. “We have been working closely with the MBTA to reinforce the tunnel where needed,” says Zach Chrisco, a civil engineer and principal at Sasaki. “We created a steel and concrete platform that acts as a base for the brick plaza above it while strengthening the tunnel structure below.”

Sasaki’s new design for the plaza seeks to solve its shortcomings by turning the space into a truly public center to be used and enjoyed by the diverse community. The project is scheduled to be finished by Spring of 2022 and will feature shaded seating areas, playscapes, and plenty of greenery.