Boston Council Committee Advances Copley Plaza Hotel Landmark Designation

BOSTON — April 21, 2026 — Boston's City Council planning committee advanced a landmark designation for the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel, clearing the way for a full council vote. The Committee on Planning, Development and Transportation held a hearing Tuesday on docket 0771, sponsored by Mayor Michelle Wu, covering the proposed designation of the 1912 Italian Renaissance Revival hotel at 205 Dartmouth Street under Chapter 772 of the Acts of 1975. The Boston Landmarks Commission voted unanimously on March 24 to designate the building, which would protect its exterior envelope and six lobby-level interior spaces including the grand ballroom and St. James Room from unreviewed alterations. Elizabeth Sherba of the Office of Historic Preservation told councillors that "the last stop in becoming a landmark is approval by the City Council," which may approve, deny, or take no action before an April 30 effective date. Councillors Ed Flynn and Louiecheng both voiced support; the committee chair said she will bring the matter to the full council at its next meeting.