Michael Nichols, President of the Downtown Boston Alliance (DBA), knows more about the city's central core and its history than anyone. And he loves talking about it. Here is our recent interview with Michael, lightly edited.
The DBA works to keep downtown Boston an exciting and compelling neighborhood for people to live, work, play, and study. That includes putting on art exhibitions year-round plus other programming, cleaning the neighborhood, welcoming visitors and tourists, and promoting all the great things going on here. We also spur economic development by supporting commercial property owners, stores, office spaces, and retail establishments to thrive.
I believe The Burnham is the single most accessible office building in New England. It literally sits atop our entire region's public transportation system. Its iconic architecture blends beautifully into the urban fabric probably better than any structure in Boston. I remember as a child, coming to Filene's Basement to get my first suit. That building has been part of people's lives for generations.
The DBA's lead programming venue for public events and activities is right out The Burnham's front door at the Summer Street Pedestrian Plaza. We've had a lot of Super Bowl parades pass right by here. It's the heart of the city.
Being a coastal city, Boston's geography is different than many places. A lot of the workforce lives in the suburbs to the North, South, and West. Each commute can be challenging. None of that friction happens with The Burnham. It sits between North Station and South Station with the Orange and Red lines running directly underneath. It sits near bus lines that will take you all over Boston, it's just steps from the Silver Line, and a short walk from the ferry.
The Burnham is the crown jewel of the central business district. The district supports daily office needs with dentists, doctors, tailors, barbershops, hair salons, and major brands. There are over 150 dining options within a 5–10-minute walk, including James Beard-nominated and Michelin-recognized restaurants. The Theatre District and experiential art venues like the Wonder Museum are also nearby. Workers returning 3–4 days a week want the convenience and energy only downtown provides.
People from around the world visit this neighborhood to walk the Freedom Trail and explore historic sites. Downtown is socioeconomically and racially diverse and feels like the center of a major American city. It has "healthy urban grit" that makes great cities special. It's also the safest central business district among major U.S. cities. DBA cleans the streets 24/7 and ambassadors maintain a visible presence at all times.
