First Year Tower Residence Hall

Updated September 10, 2026

Construction of the First Year Tower continues to make significant progress. The work scheduled during September focuses primarily on underground infrastructure, foundation construction, and preparation for the building's vertical structure. Crews will continue installing essential underground utilities to support the new residence hall, including electrical service, water, sewer, and drainage systems. This work includes installation of several utility access structures and connections that will serve the building. A major milestone this month is the installation of the building's underground fuel storage tank. Activities include excavation, concrete foundation placement, delivery and crane installation of the tank, connection of associated piping systems, required inspections, and final backfilling. Community members may notice increased activity from excavation equipment and periodic crane operations during this work. Foundation work becomes a primary focus throughout September. Workers will continue excavation and construction of pile caps, grade beams, foundation mats, and reinforced concrete elements that will support the residence hall structure. Multiple concrete pours are scheduled over the coming weeks, along with deliveries of reinforcing steel. Preparations for the project's tower crane will begin, including construction of the crane foundation and installation of temporary power infrastructure. Once operational, the tower crane will support future structural construction activities. The project team is also constructing a full-scale exterior mock-up featuring precast concrete panels, windows, curtain wall elements, louvers, and granite finishes. This mock-up will be reviewed by the City of Boston and project stakeholders to confirm appearance and quality before full installation begins.