Safety in East Boston... (Chelsea, Southampton: apartments, condo, home)

[Kirstin]

Two friends and I are looking at apartments for next year and I was just wondering if anyone new anything about East Boston, specifically right around the Memorial Stadium? I am looking at a three bedroom right off of Porter Street. Is this area safe? I have been told to avoid the Maverick area and Eagle Hill, but that Jeffries Point is a pretty good area.

Also, what about the area of Southhampton Street at Dorchester Ave in Southie? Any comments on that area?

Any help would be much appreciated.

[bostonguy1960]

Southampton St. itself doesn't seem to have many residences, but what you seem to be talking about is the Andrew Sq. Area next to the red line. Well, it's near a few housing projects, home to some young professionals, etc. It doesn't seem too unsafe, but it's not as desirable as other parts of Southie. I wouldn't necessarily exclude this area, but it's not hip or trendy, for those who need that. At least it's near Carson Beach & Moakley Park.

That Porter St. area is quiet, it seems; I usually double park as I pick up my pizza order at Santarpio's. The 156 Porter St. condo has probably polished up the area a bit. -- plus the new YMCA looks nice. Driving around most parts of Eastie at 2 am (as I sometimes must) is relatively safe to me, contrasted to its perception with others.

The MS-13 gang has been in Eastie, Somerviile, Chelsea, etc. for years, but had I not read about it in a front-page Herald story 10 yrs. ago, I would be unaware of major problems, despite their horrific image around the world.

[mustmove]

We lived in Eastie(Marginal St./Maverick area) for a year about 5 years ago and never had a problem. We enjoyed living there, sailing from the park, Santarpio's, Uncle Pete's BBQ, great view of Harbor fireworks, what's not to like?

[Cliff Clavin]

I currently live in Southie, and although Andrew Sq isn't much to look at, I don't think you'll have a problem with safety. I dated a girl who lived right on Dorchester St, and we used to play tennis on the courts next to the projects after work. Never had the slightest problem.

[Kirstin]

thanks all!!