The broadcaster hired New York-based Polshek Partnership Architects to plan what they called "a state-of-the-art media complex that will accommodate the station's move into the digital age." The existing 181,000-sf building will provide offices for staff, while an adjacent 130,000-sf broadcast studio will be built on two acres of property. The initial plans also called for space that would accommodate public events.

Locally based builder George BH Macomber Co. is serving as construction manager for the endeavor. The company has worked with the broadcaster on a number of expansion efforts since 1984.

Located in Allston since 1964, WGBH has outgrown its current Western Avenue space where its employees occupy 13 buildings. In addition to providing local broadcast content, WGBH produces PBS prime-time programs include "NOVA," "Frontline," "American Experience," "Antiques Roadshow," "ExxonMobil Masterpiece Theatre," "This Old House," as well as children's programs such as "Arthur," and "Zoom."