The ensuing outcry over the riots put pressure on the university to implement a plan to move its students on campus. In the plan it reached with the city, the university will conclude its master lease property program--which currently houses 900 students in 22 different privately owned dwellings in Fenway neighborhoods--within five years.

"The signing of this agreement represents a significant step toward addressing the concerns of the city and the community," says Freeland. "We believe this agreement is a win-win situation for the university, the community, and the city of Boston."

Menino says the university has "come to the table" with the community to respond to its concerns, including housing, off campus rental properties, student behavior and accountability.