The Boston Globe reports, “The West Coast development firm Gerding Edlen Cos. believes something transformational is happening in American cities.’’

“It views the nation’s urban centers as places to live—not just work—and asserts that a large part of the population is dropping the dream of the suburban picket fence to buy or rent homes on streets bustling with stores, restaurants, and people.’’

“After building large projects based on that idea in Portland, Ore., Los Angeles, and other cities, Gerding Edlen is undertaking a similar development in Boston’s Fort Point Channel neighborhood, where it plans to begin construction next spring on a 20-story tower at 319 A St. that will be the tallest building in the former industrial district.’’

“‘We see this area as a unique place where art, creativity, and innovation all collide,’’’ said Kelly Saito, president of Gerding Edlen. “‘That makes for a very rich neighborhood in our mind.’’’

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