"It is often noted that Harvard plans decades or even a century into the future," writes the broadsheet in a mind-blowing editorial this morning. "Allston residents, however, aren’t in a position to look that far down the pike." And just think of the terrible consequences for Harvard of its predilection for thinking of the future - if only it had chosen instead to think of the short-term, it might never have been afflicted with its huge endowment or national preeminence. Making plans with an eye toward their long-term costs and benefits isn't some effete Ivy League quirk. It's just common sense.
There's actually a good argument buried in the editorial. Harvard does indeed have an obligation to sign short-term leases for its vacant storefronts, and to think more creatively and proactively about maintaining and improving the neighborhood. The problems with Harvard's Allston development have been amply and ably documented on this blog. Harvard's ambitious plans were derailed by the slumping economy, and it is now mothballing its properties, with devastating consequences for the local community. But this editorial elevates the popular sport of Harvard-bashing to newly self-destructive heights. Read more
More