Meredith Baumann, a spokesperson for the BRA, tells GlobeSt.com that the lease was signed with the understanding that it was a temporary arrangement. "It was never the intention that they would remain there," Baumann says, referring to the pavilion. The land is owned by the Economic Development Industrial Corp., a branch of the BRA. Baumann points out that under Chapter 91 regulations, which dictate the activity in this area, anything on the waterfront has to have a maritime use and has to reconnect the city's residents with the harbor. The pavilion is reaching part of those goals, notes Baumann, explaining why the agency is extending the lease.

The BRA is adding a number of caveats to the lease extension. If a project with a "better use" needs the space FleetBoston will get a year's notice before the lease is terminated. Also, Fleet Boston will be asked to continue its siting study to find a more appropriate space. Baumann notes that the pavilion has provided a significant income stream to the city. The projected lease revenues over the five years is $1.2 million. "No other suitable tenant came forth so the land would have been unproductive," she says. "This is a positive thing."