Seeking designers, architects and urbanists to provide design, technical assistance and other support to area business owners to activate and beautify Chelsea’s downtown through sidewalk downtown, decorative planters, and other temporary installations.

Work will supportChelsea Prospers, the City of Chelsea’s initiative to increase the economic vitality of the historic commercial center of this small gateway city.Activities include special events and other space activation, public art, and other projects to nurture neighborhood identity, promotion and civic engagement. We seek a Fellow to inspire the small business owners and property owners to creatively envision the potential of their properties.

In 2019 the City of Chelsea enacted new zoning regulations to facilitate activation of the public realm by district businesses. Chelsea’s downtown holds significant assets including an intact historic building fabric, diverse local people and culture, numerous independently-owned retail shops and restaurants, all in close proximity to downtown Boston.Engaging businesses in the enhancement of the retail corridor will foster a morevibrant, pedestrian-friendly and healthy neighborhood.

The Public Space Enhancement Specialist will provide design, technical assistance and other supports to business owners, commercial property owners, neighborhood groups, municipal officials and city staff regarding the activation of public space in Chelsea’s downtown. Modest funds are available to provide grants and source supplies to execute activation projects. Working closely with the Downtown Coordinator and other staff of the Planning and Development Department of the City of Chelsea, tasks include:

- Survey the district to identify key sites and business partners.

- Suggest temporary space activation ideas to animate public space such as sidewalk and alleyway dining, parklets, planters, and sandwich boards.

- Within the Broadway Design Guidelines and municipal ordinances, develop design options. Clearly illustrate ideas.

- Develop budgets. Source materials.

- Consult with business owners, property owners and city staff. Present concept proposals.

- Support business and property owners in permitting. Recommendation operational plans.

- Execute and support installation.

- Execute programming as appropriate.

- Suggest policy and process changes to city staff as appropriate.

The term is anticipated to be 12 weeks, roughly May through August, 2020. 

Chelseais easily accessed by several bus routes, the commuter rail and Silver Line. The district is just 4 miles from downtown Boston and 5 miles from Kendall Square.

- Background in Architecture, Design, or affiliated field.

- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact with diverse individuals and groups.

- Creative thinking and collaborative approach.

- Proficient with design tools and basic computer skills.

- Ability to work independently and complete assigned tasks within identified time frames.

- Organized, dependable and detail oriented.

- Desire to learn, improve skills/understanding of the field, and further Chelsea’s community building and economic development goals.

- Bilingual English-Spanish preferred.

Interested, qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter and pdf sample of previous design work as it relates to this project.Submit materials to Mimi Graney, Downtown Coordinator, at mgraney@chelseama.gov. All applications will receive an email to confirm receipt.