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ArtsUnion

Started in 2005, ArtsUnion is an initiative to enhance the cultural economic development of Union Square. ArtsUnion presents events and markets, cultural and historical tours, commissions street furniture and public art, and revised zoning to incentivize arts redevelopment. ArtsUnion was once funded by the MCC's John and Abigail Adams Art Program and remains supported by the City of Somerville.

Since 2005 the Arts Council, the Mayor's Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development, and the community have been working on rezoning Union Square. After many meetings the zoning has been revised and was adopted in April 2009.

The zoning provides incentives for arts related development, including, an Arts Overlay District and density bonuses within the new transit oriented districts of Union Square. While the actual zoning ordinance is the legal document, we have created a "laymen's guide" to explain and market the arts components of the revised zoning. Download Rezoning Union Square The Arts Perspective (pdf) .

If you are a developer and would like to discuss a project please contact the Council (617-625-6600, x2985) or OSPCD at (617-625-6600, x2500).