Back Bay Association : Back Bay Activities

The Back Bay Association provides opportunities and a powerful voice for its members. The primary focus for the BBA and its 300 members is to ensure the continued commercial strength of the area by initiating programs that improve, promote, and protect the quality of life in Back Bay.

Key benefits of BBA Membership include:

BBA Management and Board serving as liaison between the private and public sectors on such issues as public improvement projects, new development, zoning and land use, permits and licensing, public safety, transportation issues and Back Bay architectural design.

Representation in advisory groups and on commissions focused on the Back Bay and in Boston, providing ongoing communication with our Members on the activities and events that directly shape the Back Bay business climate. BBA Members are represented on Back Bay Architectural Commission, Groundwater Trust, Prudential Center’s PruPAC, Park Plaza Civic Advisory Committee, Parcels 16 and 17 Civic Advisory Committee, Fenway/Kenmore Air Rights Project CAC, and Back Bay Transportation Management Association.

Networking and promotional opportunities, including:

Back Bay Visitor's Shopping & Dining Guide & Map
Special group rate advertising programs in selected publications
Member-to-member marketing programs and promotions
Membership mailing labels and data base on Back Bay businesses
Updates on special events and conventions for targeted marketing campaigns
Master-list and notification on Parade Permits and major civic events
BBA Informational Forums that introduce topics of interest to members
Annual meetings and fundraising events that bring together Back Bay’s top leaders

Advocacy for the upkeep, beautification, and improvement in quality-of-life issues in the Back Bay environment such as controlling and banishing graffiti, street vending, panhandling, skateboarding, and illegal signage. The Association proposes initiatives to improve streetscapes including repairing sidewalk surfaces and utility strips, pruning trees, weeding, and maintenance. Staff members expedite the repair, replacement, and improvement of city services and build strong alliances with city service providers.

Membership advocacy for capital improvements that enhance the area and ensure that transportation systems adequately meet the needs of businesses, residents, and visitors. Member efforts have included the Boylston Street Improvement Plan, Transportation Strategies for the Back Bay; Eastward Access/Egress via Turnpike to Central Artery/Tunnel; and the Copley Square Pedestrian Improvement Project

View images from the Boylston Street Improvement Plan

Community and member safety advocacy to continue the Back Bay's economic strength and viability. BBA Members participate in such initiatives as Team Member Police Department Area D-4 Strategic Planning; creation and presentation of Community Impact Statement(s) to the District Attorney and Court System on Quality of Life Issues; Crime and Sentencing Models; and the creation of the Security Committee and email Network.