[NYguy]

http://bostonglobe.com/business/2012...MoO/story.html

Tower would rival Hub’s tallest buildings
Project at site of old Filene’s could spur remaking of area

By Casey Ross
February 4, 2012

The development firm taking control of the former Filene’s property in downtown Boston said it will build a tower as high as 600 feet, rivaling the tallest buildings in the district and creating a new magnet for shoppers, diners, and residents.

At that height, the new Filene’s tower would be as tall as the Federal Reserve Bank building or the nearby One Boston Place. It would be taller and more slender than the first building proposed for the site, a 39-story building that stalled in the early stages of construction.

In their comments yesterday, Millennium’s executives said they intend to build an “elegant’’ tower of between 500 and 600 feet that will become a modern landmark but will also relate to surrounding businesses and nearby historic buildings such as the Old South Meeting House.

“The lifeblood of downtown is retail, and the way this building meets the street is crucial,’’ said Pangaro. “We believe these buildings do much to create the quality of the city.’’

Aarons said Millennium still must secure tenants and financing to restart construction, but expects to move forward aggressively in the coming months. The height of the proposed building means it will probably be scrutinized for throwing shadows on nearby Boston Common and other possible effects. City officials said a citizens group will be appointed soon to begin reviewing the developer’s plans. The new tower will be designed by Handel Architects of New York, which has drawn a number of striking skyscrapers in cities around the world.

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http://bostonherald.com/business/rea...oper_aims_high
New Filene’s developer aims high

By Greg Turner and Brendan Lynch
February 4, 2012

What’s a good way to fill the hole in the ground formerly known as Filene’s in Downtown Crossing? Go to great heights — higher than the original developer — to heal the deep scar that brought shame to the struggling shopping district.

Millennium Partners took control of the One Franklin project with plans for a 600-foot office, residential and retail tower, far taller than the 39-story structure pitched by controversial New York firm Vornado Realty Trust.