About the BRA Divisions BRA Budget 2010                      EDIC Budget 2010 BRA Audited Financials            EDIC Audited Financials Our Mission In partnership with communities, the BRA plans Boston's future while respecting its past. We prepare our residents for new opportunities through training, human service and job creation. The BRA guides physical, social, and economic change in Boston's neighborhoods and its downtown to shape a more prosperous, sustainable, and beautiful city for all. Our Values BRA personnel work in a wide range of professional disciplines, serving the City of Boston in a variety of ways. We lead Boston's efforts in the areas of planning, economic development, and workforce development. We provide research and analysis to non-profits and to policy makers at all levels of government. We emphasize cross-departmental collaborations, constantly inviting professionals in various disciplines to inform the work of colleagues with different areas of focus. In all of our work, we adhere to a formal set of values: Dedication: Dedication to Boston and enhancing the city life Respect: Respect for individuals, neighborhoods, and communities Diversity: Embrace diversity through differences in people, ideas, and skills Integrity: Integrity of people and process Professionalism: Commitment to professional excellence, learning, and accountability Balance: Balance competing interests and concerns Our History In 1957, the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) was established by the Boston City Council and the Massachusetts Legislature. The BRA assumed the development powers previously held by the Boston Housing Authority and expanded them beyond public housing. In 1960 the City Planning Board was abolished and its powers were transferred to the BRA. The BRA's statutory authority was set forth in the Massachusetts General Laws, chapter 121B, section 4 in 1957 and Chapter 652, section 12 in 1960. Its broad development authorities include the power to buy and sell property, the power to acquire property through eminent domain, and the power to grant tax concession (under MGL chapter 121A) to encourage commercial and residential development.