As if a five-star hotel and highly profitable casino were not enough, Wynn Development recently submitted a proposal to construct a mixed-use event venue on Lower Broadway. At 900,000 square feet, the building, known as East of Broadway, would be adjacent to Encore Boston Harbor. It would feature a two-story restaurant, retail space, a seven-floor parking garage with spaces for 2,310 vehicles and an event center with seating for 1,800 patrons.
The focal point of the $3.7 million project would be a 425-foot long, enclosed pedestrian bridge with climate control. The bridge would be located 50 feet above Lower Broadway between Mystic and Dexter Streets. In addition to always being accessible to the public, the bridge would feature moving walkways.
“The development plan proposed by Wynn Development supports the vision and goals Everett has laid out in our Lower Broadway District Urban Renewal Plan, which are to further transform Lower Broadway into an inviting and vibrant place that will create jobs and generate revenue for the city and the people of Everett,” said Mayor Carlo DeMaria. “The addition of the pedestrian bridge as part of the proposed plan will increase safety for Everett residents and all pedestrians and will serve as a gateway to a revitalized Lower Broadway District and a new future for Everett.”
“Wynn Development looks forward to feedback from the city of Everett and to collaborating with the community as we plan for the first phase of our proposed entertainment district. This project will further deliver on our promise to create jobs, increase economic impact, and generate revenue for the city of Everett, its residents, and the region,” said Wynn Development President Christopher Gordon. “Over time, the restaurants, shops, entertainment venue and the beautiful public pedestrian bridge created by this proposed development will continue the transformation of Lower Broadway into an exciting destination and a welcoming entryway into Everett.”
The site itself sits on the east side of Broadway between Dexter and Mystic Streets, which puts it in the Lower Broadway Economic Development District. This project would be a key factor in converting the industrial area on Lower Broadway into a mixed-use neighborhood. It would also allow for the future implementation of Broadway Complete Streets.
“I’m excited to see Wynn Resorts has begun to take steps towards making the East of Broadway project a reality,” said Ward 3 Councillor Anthony DiPierro. “This will continue the transformation of Lower Broadway and provide a great deal of tax revenue and jobs for our residents.”
However, Ward 2 Councillor Stephanie Martins erred on the side of caution. “I am all about progress and a huge fan of fun places to go but it is a tough balance,” she said. “We want Everett to continue to move forward but we also want to prevent displacement and make sure we are giving our small businesses the investment they need and an opportunity to thrive and compete. Bigger private projects require more community investment by the city to balance it out. I hope we can do that so we can elevate the city as a whole rather than dividing it.”