Simon Property Group files Draft Project Impact Report for Copley Place

Simon Property Group, Inc. has filed a Draft Project Impact Report with the Boston Redevelopment Authority for its proposed expansion and renovation of Copley Place. The filing follows the Project Notification Form submitted in June 2008 followed by numerous meetings with the appointed Citizens Advisory Committee, and various public agencies of the City of Boston to carefully review and discuss the project beginning in June 2008 and continuing through August 2011. Simon's $500 million project seeks to transform Copley Place from a retail and office destination into a mix-use development. Incorporating sustainable, transit-oriented, and smart growth design principles, this project will create 1,700 construction jobs and 270 permanent jobs for Boston's economy. The 47-story building will have 318 residential units and 115,000 s/f of new and expanded retail and restaurants. "The expansion of Neiman Marcus and Copley Place strengthens our retail destination in the Back Bay and contributes to the city's economic vitality," said Michael McCarty, executive vice president, development operations, Simon Property Group. "The project will enhance the urban fabric of the neighborhood and be a striking addition to the city's skyline." Simon's team of professionals to develop this project include Elkus/Manfredi Architects of Boston; Collaborative Partners, Inc. is the development project manager.