The proposed mixed-use plan includes residential, office research and development, hotel and retail uses. Because the site is located right next to the Green Line MBTA station, a new station, in addition to possible connections to commuter rail and the Orange Line of the MBTA, could be part of the proposal.

In a released statement, Cambridge Mayor Anthony D. Gallucio says, "This site is the largest piece of land available for development in the City of Cambridge. With thorough and thoughtful planning that includes the East Cambridge community, city leaders and planners, the development of this unused industrial railway site presents enormous opportunities for housing, open space, transportation improvements and other improvements."

Portsmouth, New Hampshire-based Guilford is the owner of New England's largest privately-held group of freight railroad companies, the 1,500 mile Guilford Rail System, as well as other transportation-related businesses. Locally-based Spaulding & Slye Colliers is an integrated corporate and investor real estate services company.