Breakthrough at Biogen sparks optimism in Kendall Square, stirring excitement about its potential impact
Biogen's New State-of-the-Art Facility Breaks Ground in Kendall Square
On Tuesday, a significant event took place in Kendall Square, Cambridge, as Biogen held a ceremonial groundbreaking for its new state-of-the-art facility. Approximately 300 people gathered to witness this momentous occasion, including Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, MIT President Sally Kornbluth, and Biogen's CEO, Chris Veihbacher.
The new facility, designed by Elkus Manfredi Architects, will span a colossal 580,000 square feet and serve as a consolidated headquarters for Biogen. This ambitious project is being constructed at MIT's Kendall Common, a development being overseen by MIT's Investment Management Company (MITIMCo).
The Kendall Common project, a joint venture with Biogen, is an extensive undertaking that will ultimately include four commercial buildings, four residential buildings (including affordable housing), open space, retail, entertainment, and a community center.
Biogen's decision to centralize operations at this location is a testament to the community's talent, energy, ingenuity, and collaboration in Kendall Square. Biogen, founded by Nobel laureates Phillip Sharp and Wally Gilbert in 1978, has been based in Cambridge for over 40 years.
Veihbacher shared his thoughts on the decision, expressing his admiration for the vibrant and innovative atmosphere in Kendall Square. He emphasized that this move is a strategic choice that will foster collaboration and accelerate Biogen's mission to find life-changing therapies for patients worldwide.
In March 2025, Biogen announced its intention to centralize operations at 75 Broadway. However, the new facility at Kendall Common will mark a significant upgrade, reflecting Biogen's commitment to innovation and growth.
The former Volpe federal site is the location of the construction, and the new facility is scheduled to open in 2028. Patrick Rowe, Senior Vice President at MITIMCo, expressed excitement for the impact the Biogen project will have on Kendall Square and the advancement of the innovation ecosystem.
MIT President Sally Kornbluth described Biogen's move as "a very important signal to the world right now". She highlighted that this development will further solidify Kendall Square's reputation as a global hub for biotech innovation.
The event concluded with both Sharp and Gilbert, the founding fathers of Biogen, receiving an impromptu standing ovation. The theme of the event was "Making breakthroughs happen in Kendall Square", a sentiment that resonates with the spirit of innovation and collaboration that permeates the area.
This new facility will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing growth and success of Biogen, while also bolstering the vibrant and dynamic Kendall Square ecosystem.
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