Health Center Discussed By City Planners

Cambridge's Planning Board held a public hearing yesterday on a zoning change necessary for Harvard's proposed Health Center building, and heard nothing but praise for the ten story, full-block structure planned by the University.

The zoning change from Business "A" to Business "B" would raise the height limit from 60 to 100 feet in the block bounded by Mass. Ave., Holyoke, Dunster, and Mt. Auburn Sts.

Jose Luis Sert, Dean of the School of Design, explained to the Planning Board the architectural features of the H-shaped building which he designed, and said that it will probably be built in two phases. First would come the complete Health Center facilities, extending along Mt. Auburn St. The other half would be built later, including space for the Cambridge Trust Co. and other Mass. Ave. firms.

In addition to health facilities for Harvard and Radcliffe students, faculty, and employees, the building will contain a garage and meeting rooms. It also will eventually house many of the University functions now occupying space in Yard dormitories, according to Edward Reynolds '15, Administrative vice-President.

Sert pointed out that the building will be set back from narrow Holyoke St., allowing a row of trees to be planted along the widened sidewalk there.

Representatives of the Harvard Square Business Men's Association and the Cambridge Trust Co. voiced warm approval of the proposal, and no one objected.