Interesting story by Scott van Voorhis in the Herald.

Sox put the squeeze on


It seems that developers have filed plans to build high-rise condos in the Fenway area; one of the amenities would be views of Fenway Park. The Sox aren't happy.


"Team owners and executives have made it clear that they feel Fenway's broad and open skyline - and the views it offers of downtown Boston and local landmarks like Kenmore Square's Citgo sign - is very much part of the Fenway experience.

And the Sox have made it clear they believe fans, as they watch the Sox on a crystal clear summer's evening, shouldn't have to stare up at a new condo tower looming over the park.

It is a view that is now starting to pick up some support - both from sports business experts and City Hall.


It would be interesting if Boston City Hall created a special zone that prohibited anyone from building structures that would allow views into Fenway Park.

They've built such condo's here in San Diego, the team owns some of them and the others are owned by other developers. Since the land around Fenway is already owned and wasn't part of a project, I don't see how the Red Sox can do anything save a change in the zoning laws which would lead to protacted litigation. One thing comes to mind, tongue in cheek, declare the area blighted per the SCOTUS ruling and let the Sox develop it.

Thanks for the link Anni.

This is an interesting article and my favorite part is this:


I wonder what sort of "pressure" was delivered in these back channel negotations? If anyone sees John Rosenthal sitting just off the field at Fenway for the rest of the season, feel free to let me know......