Segway Opposed by LaMattina, NEWNC

City Councilor Salvatore La Mattina does not support Segway coming to 420 Commercial Street.

Nor do members of the North End/Waterfront Neighborhood Council who voted unanimously not to grant the property owner’s application for a zoning change so he can add Segway rentals and tours as part of his land use.

Boston by Segway/Boston Gliders, owned by the Frances Lauria family, is currently zoned for a gas station, parking lot and offices.

“This is no offense to the owners but I won’t be supporting it,” said LaMattina during the North End/Watefront Neighborhood Council meeting on February 25.

LaMattina, who represents District 1 that includes the North End, said he will not support Segway using the space at the upcoming Boston Zoning Board of Appeals hearing that is scheduled for March 12 in City Hall.

LaMattina also highlighted several neighborhood initiatives including the work he has done on the Problem Properties Task Force and the Nuisance/Noise Control Ordinance he sponsored.

“It’s been a nice year in the North End in regards to the work I’ve been doing in the neighborhood,” he said. “We are very fortunate to have Captain (Thomas) Lee on the police force. He is very, very responsive to this neighborhood.”

LaMattina said he is hoping the Noise Control Ordinance will help target loud parties.

“I’m happy about the expansion of the Eliot School,” he said.

LaMattina also spoke about resident parking and that his office is working with the Department of Transportation to alleviate congestion for those who live in the North End, particularly on Cross Street near Hanover Street.

“We’re hoping the neighborhood will also come up with some ideas,” LaMattina said.