Boston City Councilors Ayanna Pressley and Michelle Wu are expecting the full and utmost support of their constituent councilors on a resolution filed Wednesday to pursue a Literary Cultural District in Boston.
The resolution is only the beginning step in a long process to establish the first literature-centric designated region in the nation. Boston already boasts a cultural district in the Fenway, and area boasts world-class institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
The proposed literary district, though, would not only feature historical landmarks and artsy displays, it would help sponsor and promote engaging activities like poetry readings, writing workshops, and scholarly symposia.
BostInno spoke with Councilor Pressley last week, as well as her chief of staff, who both conveyed that the Boston City Council will throw their collective clout behind the resolution. In fact, Literary Cultural District Coordinator Larry Lindner told BostInno that sentiments pertaining to the district have been overwhelmingly supportive with the only question marks surrounding logistical issues like what items will be included within its boundaries.
“Establishment of this budget-neutral Literary Cultural District will highlight Boston’s renowned literary history and literary resurgence,” the filed resolution reads, “help generate revenue for the city and spur economic development, and promote creativity and an appreciation for the literary arts.”
Should the resolution pass as expected, the district could be launched as soon as September assuming all goes according to plan. The application must be approved by the Massachusetts Cultural Council followed by various on-site tours and examinations. If the MCC feels all items are in order with no questions left to be asked, the launch could take place at the end of September or early October.
A mobile app is planned for 2015 to help those who plan on enjoying the district to find their way around.
The Boston City Council will convene at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday afternoon.
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