Post Office Square in the Financial District has been described as one of the great public improvement in the history of Boston. Under the motto "Park Above, Park Below," this project replaced an intrusive 1950s municipal car park with a seven-level underground parking facility, combined with a one-and-a-half acre public park at street level.

Commissioned and financed by a group of private citizens representing neighboring businesses, the project was planned in close cooperation with the city. It has successfully improved area parking and circulation and given a heart and sense of community to the downtown.

CREDITS...

• Friends of Post Office Square, Inc.
• City of Boston
• Parsons Brinkerhoff Quade & Douglas, Inc.
• Ellenzweig Associates, Inc.
• The Halvorson Company, Inc.

JURY COMMENTS...

Reconciling the need for urban public space and high-density use of the automobile, this below-grade parking structure and park has become a common meeting ground for people who work and shop in downtown Boston. It is a major addition to and enhancement of the city's public space.

The garage uses signs, lights and sounds to create a welcoming ambience that is, and feels, safe because of the clarity of organization, good use of materials and controlled entry pavilion.