Life Science

Biotech Hub Coming to Assembly Row

Cambrudge, MA – bluebird bio, Inc. announced that it has signed a long-term lease with Federal Realty (Federal) to establish a biotech hub at Assembly Row.

The 61,000sf facility to be located at 455 Grand Union Blvd. in Somerville is designed to meet the changing needs of bluebird bio’s business, including its focus on gene therapies for severe genetic diseases following the recent spinoff of its oncology portfolio.

The company expects to move approximately 425 employees to its new headquarters in spring 2022. The workspace is designed to enable a distributed work model and to allow for increased engagement and productivity for all employees, as hybrid work is here to stay. bluebird estimates the move to Assembly Row will result in more than $120 million in cumulative cost savings over the next six years. The company will maintain laboratory space and operations at 60 Binney St. in Cambridge through 2023.

The new facility in Somerville offers access to the MBTA Orange Line, Assembly stop, and offers multiple amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, an on-location kids’ room and ample bike storage, in addition to Assembly Row’s dining, shopping, entertainment, and health and wellness benefits. The building was designed in accordance with LEED Gold Core & Shell and is currently pursuing certification.