“`html
Almost 300 individuals convened Tuesday to commemorate the ceremonial commencement for Biogen’s new cutting-edge facility in Kendall Square. This initiative marks the first structure to be erected at MIT’s Kendall Common on the former Volpe federal site and will function as a unified headquarters for the groundbreaking biotechnology firm that has regarded Cambridge as its home for over 40 years.
In celebrating the initiation of construction, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey addressed the zealous assembly, stating, “Massachusetts science saves lives — preserves lives here, preserves lives worldwide. We honor that at Biogen today, we honor that at Kendall Common, and we honor that in this remarkable ecosystem that spans our great state. Today, Biogen is not merely constructing a new facility, they are crafting the future of healthcare and innovation.”
Hosted by Kirk Taylor, president and CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, the event showcased a specially crafted Lego model of the new structure and a historical timeline of Biogen’s inception juxtaposed with Kendall Square’s evolution. The program’s motif — “Facilitating breakthroughs in Kendall Square” — appeared to evoke a tangible sense of pride among Biogen and MIT staff, business executives, and public officials present.
MIT President Sally Kornbluth contemplated the vibrancy of the local innovation environment: “I often remark that Kendall Square’s slogan could very well be ‘talent in proximity.’ By adhering to that crucial motto, Biogen’s recent choice to deepen its footprint here suggests promising prospects for the entire region.” Kornbluth characterized Biogen’s relocation as “a significant indicator to the world at this moment.”
Biogen’s March 2025 revelation to centralize activities at 75 Broadway was celebrated as a demonstration of strength for the time-honored firm and the life sciences domain. The 580,000-square-foot research and development headquarters, crafted by Elkus Manfredi Architects, will enhance Biogen’s scientific exploration and clinical procedures. The new establishment is anticipated to launch in 2028.
CEO Chris Viehbacher expressed his reflections on Biogen’s choice: “I am honored to stand here with so many individuals who have influenced our history and who are committed to our future in Kendall Square. … We chose to invest in the next chapter of Kendall Square because of what this community symbolizes: talent, vigor, creativity, and collaboration.” Biogen was established in 1978 by Nobel laureates Phillip Sharp (an MIT Institute Professor and professor of biology emeritus) and Wally Gilbert, both of whom were not only present but received an unexpected standing ovation, initiated by Viehbacher.
Kendall Common is being developed by MIT’s Investment Management Company (MITIMCo) and will ultimately consist of four commercial structures, four residential buildings (including affordable housing), open areas, retail, entertainment, and a community center. MITIMCo’s collaborative partner for the Biogen initiative is BioMed Realty, a company within the Blackstone Real Estate portfolio.
Senior Vice President Patrick Rowe, who manages MITIMCo’s real estate division, states, “Biogen serves as a vital anchor for the region. I’m eager for the influence that this initiative will have on Kendall Square, and for how the Kendall Common development can further propel our innovation ecosystem.”
“`