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Procter & Gamble's Gillette is transforming its South Boston manufacturing site into a public-friendly, versatile space. The company has filed a Letter of Intent with Boston's Planning Department to redevelop the 31-acre site, which lies between the South Boston and Fort Point neighborhoods.
Gillette's South Boston Campus to Be Redeveloped
According to Boston.com, the new development will include a scenic waterfront park, residential areas, office spaces, laboratories, and retail stores. This significant change will shift Gillette's operations from their long-time manufacturing hub to a new location.
Gillette will maintain its headquarters and technical innovation center in South Boston but will move its manufacturing to a 150-acre campus in Andover. The new manufacturing center at the South Boston site will also be constructed.
In fall 2023, Gillette held a virtual public meeting to share initial plans and gather community input. Upcoming public meetings and site tours in September will offer more opportunities for feedback.
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Mixed Reactions to Gillette's Redevelopment Plan
Tom Ready, President of the Fort Point Neighborhood Association, noted concerns about the reduction in manufacturing jobs but remains optimistic about the new opportunities the project will create. He is hopeful about working with Gillette, the City, and the State to bring meaningful changes to South Boston.
Gillette has used the South Boston site for over a century as a manufacturing hub for shaving and body products, housing 750 employees in various roles. Since Procter & Gamble acquired Gillette in 2005, the future of the site has been under review.
According to The Real Deal, Buckley emphasized the importance of preserving the site's legacy and the opportunity to strengthen Gillette's presence in South Boston.
The project will unfold in phases, with a significant focus on green spaces and climate resilience, particularly addressing rising sea levels. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu expressed support for Gillette's commitment to mixed-use and transit-oriented development.
The redevelopment also involves selling parts of the campus to developers. Eli Lilly & Co. has opened a new research and development center, and additional projects include a mixed-use development by Related Beal and a lab development by Tishman Speyer.
P&G must submit a master plan to the city's planning board. A site tour and community meetings are scheduled for next month and fall, respectively.
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