Marjorie C. Decker, one of the city councillors most critical of Harvard in the past, attended yesterday's press conference.

She said afterwards that she was impressed by Harvard's efforts, but that they are the proper steps a good neighbor should take.

"It's a good example of the best of what the University and city can do," she said. "I see it as a responsibility that they have, and it's great that they are doing it."

Celebrate Good Times

More than a 100 area residents, politicians and housing advocates gathered beneath a sunny, cloudless sky at yesterday's dedication, originally postponed because of inclement weather.

Daniel J. Wuenschel, executive director of the Cambridge Housing Authority, served as master of ceremonies at the event, which featured a string of speakers focusing on the need for more affordable housing and praising Harvard's financial commitment.

"A year ago we might be competing with Harvard for this site, but now it's Harvard's help that has made this possible," Wuenschel said.

"It certainly goes a long way to showing us from the town that Harvard is interested in the greater community," he told the Crimson.

Healy, the city's chief executive and managing director of CAHT, has worked closely with Harvard throughout his 30-year tenure as city manager. In his remarks yesterday, he stressed the University's longtime collaborative relationship with Cambridge and singled out Rudenstine, who will resign in June, for special praise.

"It's not [Harvard's] first entrée into affordable housing--they have long been involved," he said. "To you, Mr. President, I want to say thank you for your work in all areas and your collaborative cooperation with the city of Cambridge."