Bisnow: Transforming Nubian Square

May 2nd, 2024

BlueHub Loan Fund is involved in many of the developments revitalizing Boston’s Nubian Square into a cultural and economic hub, known to many as the new "Black Wall Street. BlueHub's investment in its own neighborhood is more than financial—it's a commitment to sustainable, community-focused development, as reported in Bisnow.

BlueHub Loan Fund's financial contributions have supported critical developments, including the Franklin Cummings Tech campus, Nubian Square Ascends, Drexel Village, NUBA Apartments, and 2147 Washington Street. Each project underscores BlueHub’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and sustainable community development.

Karen Kelleher, President of BlueHub Loan Fund, emphasizes the pivotal role of public leadership in these transformative projects.

"Public leadership is critical to this work," Kelleher states. "Many of the deals we've talked about are deals that are happening on city-owned land, where the city has been very intentional in selecting local, community-based developers or teams that include community-based developers to reconstruct their own neighborhood."

Walking through Nubian Square, the ongoing transformation is evident. Construction crews are busy with new developments on Washington Street and Harrison Avenue, contributing to the area's emergence as a technology and cultural hub. Despite these advancements, the community still faces challenges from past disinvestment, with shuttered businesses and empty sidewalks.

The neighborhood's transition brings both hope and concern. While hundreds of new housing units and job opportunities are on the horizon, residents worry about potential gentrification and the displacement of long-time neighbors.

Community activists highlight the struggle to attract essential services, such as grocery stores, and the impact of pandemic-related business closures. Efforts are ongoing to bring in new retail options that will revitalize the area after work hours.

Notable projects include the Bruce C. Bolling Municipal Building and the Franklin Cummings Tech campus. These developments, supported by public and private investments, aim to enhance local commerce and provide affordable housing, reflecting the needs and aspirations of the residents.

Read the article in Bisnow.