As we look forward to 2015, I would like to take a moment to reflect back on the past year, which again saw tremendous positive changes in downtown Boston. In 2014 we welcomed 21 new restaurants and retailers, 260 new residential units (with hundreds more coming soon), dozens of new firms, and thousands of new employees. Downtown Boston continues to emerge as one of the most sought-after places to live, study, work, and play.

As I reflect on this remarkable transformation, I am reminded of what many of us have witnessed and been part of over the preceding decade. Theaters that were once shuttered have been refurbished and reopened. The Boston Ballet, which recently enjoyed a sold-out run of "Swan Lake" (with added performances), has made the sumptuous Boston Opera House their performance venue. We have watched Emerson College and Suffolk University transform the Paramount Center and Modern Theatre, respectively, adding, in addition to the restored theaters, new student dormitories that provide much-welcomed activity and vibrancy. With lifestyle-oriented developments blossoming throughout the district, including new residential towers, coffee shops, fitness centers, and more, areas of downtown that were once perceived as strictly financial and commercial have taken on an exciting mixed-use character.    

Such a tremendous positive transformation - representing over $3 billion in private investment - does not happen overnight. Many pioneers who have played a critical role in this revitalization deserve to be thanked. Visionaries from the public and private sectors, residents, property and business owners, and non-profit organizations have all collaborated and contributed to these efforts. I would be remiss in not acknowledging the unwavering commitment of former Mayor Thomas M. Menino, to whom we said a final goodbye this past November. 

Additional highlights from 2014 include the reopening, in August, of the beloved - and now fully-restored-Burnham Building, thanks to the amazing efforts of Millennium Partners. Previously home of the legendary Filene's, the new Burnham Building first welcomed Havas/Arnold Worldwide and AOL, with more than 600 employees. A flagship Roche Bros. supermarket will open there this spring, with the Irish-based Primark department store set to debut there this fall. Major European retailers, including Primark, Caffe Nero, Pret A Manger and (soon to come) PAUL Bakery continue to flock to downtown, establishing a significant presence here. More than 20 tech firms started in or relocated to downtown this year, from large firms such as Carbonite and Sonos to smaller companies such as Winsper and Coalition. 
 

In closing, on behalf of the staff and everyone working on the BID team, I would like to thank our directors, property owners, businesses, and residents for their continued support and participation.

Happy New Year to everyone!

President

Downtown Boston BID

P.S. With colder temperatures looming, we ask those who are able to help to remember our shelters and other organizations in downtown working with those in need. They are seeking volunteers and contributions of new thermal gloves, socks, hats, and long johns. If you need assistance on where to direct your efforts, please contact us.