MBTA starts search for developers to remake the downtown Lynn garage
The MBTA is taking qualifications from developers for the 3.6-acre garage site at Broad and Market streets, which the city wants turned into housing, shops and public parking.
The MBTA has taken the first formal step toward redeveloping its parking garage in downtown Lynn. The agency issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), asking development firms to submit their background and experience for a joint redevelopment of the 3.6-acre site at the corner of Broad and Market streets.
This is stage one of a two-part process. In stage two, the MBTA will issue a Request for Proposals inviting the qualified firms to submit full plans.
What the city wants on the site
The city wants part of the site kept as public parking and the rest turned into transit-oriented development. The city’s priorities listed in the RFQ include:
- A hub that mixes housing, businesses and transit
- Businesses and amenities for residents, workers and visitors
- Housing for a range of household types and incomes, with 10 percent of units for households at 60 percent of Area Median Income
- Better walking and biking connections and public infrastructure
The city says it will work with the MBTA on a parking plan, look for funding to help cover the cost of public parking spaces, and offer faster permitting.
About the garage
The five-story garage opened in 1992. Of its 948 parking spaces, about 350 can be used today. The MBTA says it is prepared to help with taking down the garage as part of the redevelopment. The RFQ also notes the MBTA’s work on a regional rail plan to move from a traditional commuter rail model to more frequent, flexible service.
“This property represents a critical opportunity for meaningful redevelopment that supports the commuter rail and our downtown,” Mayor Jared C. Nicholson said. State Sen. Brendan Crighton called it “a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” and EDIC/Lynn Executive Director Danya Smith and state Rep. Dan Cahill also backed the plan in the city’s announcement.
Taking the train? See our guide to getting from Lynn to Salem by train, bus or car.
More from Lynn: Latest Lynn news · What’s happening in Lynn this week
Sources: City of Lynn announcement via Lynn Community TV; The Daily Item.
More Lynn news
- Lynn soldier missing since World War II to be buried at Pine Grove Cemetery Nov. 5
- Lynn fall street sweeping 2026: schedule by ward and precinct (Nov. 2–25)
- Lynn schools warn translation work could be delayed and cost more
- Lynn hosts open houses on South Harbor waterfront renewal plan
- Lynn gets $425,000 state grant for Ames Park work
- The Gateway City Advantage — Lynn’s Economy Looks Forward
