University News | December 6, 2019

Harvard Square under reconstruction

A familiar place’s new faces

From The January-February 2020 Issue

Photograph of major construction projects in Harvard Square — Photograph by Jim Harrison

Returning visitors may find themselves disoriented as familiar haunts undergo major makeovers, shown here in mid November. The triangle between JFK and Brattle Streets (foreground) is being rebuilt as a high-end retail mall. The offices over Brattle (plywooded windows to the rear), also in new ownership, are being renovated. And Out of Town News has closed.

Published in the January-February 2020 print issue under the headline “Restructuring Harvard Square,” in the John Harvard's Journal section.

You might also like

Stone building facade with a decorative entrance and reflections in the window.

FAS Reports Financial Stability, But Rising Debt

Leaders say the cost of consultants and severance will be recouped within 18 months.

A red brick building featuring a large white door with an arched window, flanked by lamps.

Judge Dismisses Case Demanding Harvard Admissions Data

The government failed to meet procedural requirements before suing the University.

Protesters march holding signs in a public square with buildings and trees in the background.

Harvard Graduate Workers Begin Strike

In the second walkout in six months, union leaders call for better pay and benefits and a stronger grievance process.

Most popular

Historic brick building with a tall, ornate tower against a clear blue sky.

As Union Protests Continue, Stephen Colbert and Yo-Yo Ma Event at Harvard Cut Short

A conversation between the comedian and the celebrated cellist was interrupted by a fire alarm in Sanders Theatre.

Crowd of picketers holding signs advocating for fair pay on a sunny day.

Cancellations, Disruptions as Harvard Graduate Student Strike Enters Second Week

Some faculty complain about the protests’ effect on students.

Colorful illustration of a split-level house showing various activities in different rooms.

In Harvard’s House System, It’s All Fun and No Reality

Can the College do more to prepare students for the real world?

Explore More From Current Issue

Illuminated hanging sculptures resembling organic forms, casting warm light in a dim space.

Arts & Culture

Artists Enzo Camacho and Ami Lien turn a colonial symbol from Cambodia inside out.

Panoramic view of Harvard University with autumn foliage and a river under a cloudy sky.

University News

The University is expanding industry ties and investing its own funds to support research, but neither will replace lost federal dollars.

Collage of three photos of an athlete in a triathlon: one swimming, one cycling, one running, in sports attire.

Alumni Profiles

The Harvard triathlete and coach says she helps normal people to “do extraordinary things.”