Since 1986 Harvard has had an informal agreement allowing the Historic Commission to review changes made to any of its structures listed under the National Register of Historic Buildings.
If anything, the new designation for the Square makes the University's job easier.
"The Historic District creates some predictability because of the guidelines that were established," Power says.
Although Harvard has drawn heat for development in Allston and North Cambridge, it has mostly been commended for how it has handled its holdings in the Square.
"I think that Harvard has done a good job," says Kramer. "They have a strong interest in the appearance of the square since they've been there so long."
McDonalds Next?
But Conservation District or not, the city has very little influence over what businesses set up shop. Zoning can regulate use to some extent, but categories are too broad to have any specific impact.
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