Center Plaza

Center Plaza Conceptual Design Layout

In 2020, Cambridge Redevelopment Authority explored relocating a proposed Eversource substation from East Cambridge to the site of the Blue Garage located between Binney Street, Galileo Galilei Way, and Broadway in Kendall Square. The project includes creating a new open space, currently referred to as as Center Plaza.

The future open space’s design evolved substantially in 2024. The design grew in response to both comments from a joint CRA and City of Cambridge Design Review process and from community outreach efforts.

Over the course of the year, the plaza’s design shifted to include:

  • A children’s play zone

  • An increase of planting areas

  • Additional small seating nooks

  • Modifications to the plaza’s walkways and paving materials

Discussions on the design direction will continue at CRA design review meetings with board representatives throughout 2025.

Center Plaza Components

The Nooks

Intimate spaces at the intake structure with various degree of enclosure that offer a sense of urban wilderness as a respite for small group socializing and individual unwinding

Inspiration images for “The Nooks”

Illustration of “The Nooks” area of Center Plaza

The Decks

Open, flexible use areas at the exhaust + hatch structures with a variety of fixed and moveable furnishings that overlook the center of the plaza to allow gathering of all types

Inspiration images for “The Decks”

Illustration of “The Decks” area of Center Plaza

The Beacon

Structure with mirrored exterior to draw people into the plaza from the street with public restrooms

Inspiration images for “The Beacon”

Illustration of “The Beacon” area of Center Plaza

The Lawn

Open zone designed for different scales of programming throughout the year

Inspiration images for “The Lawn”

llustration of “The Lawn” area of Center Plaza