WEEK IN REVIEW: Green Line Extension Kickoff, Restaurant News, Roche Resigns

Governor kicks off Green Line Extension
Gov. Deval Patrick was in Somerville Tuesday to kick off construction on phase one of the Green Line Extension. The governor said he was committed to finishing the entire project—phases one through four—even without contributions of federal dollars.

Assembly Row developers buy IKEA site
Federal Realty Investment Trust, the developers of Assembly Row, announced this week they were purchasing the 12 acres of land in Assembly Square owned by IKEA. Federal Realty Investment Trust said they plan to build residential and office space on the site, along with a supermarket. IKEA decided in July not to build a store in Somerville.

Oleana owner and chef to open restaurant in Somerville
Ana Sortun, owner and chef of Cambridge's highly acclaimed Oleana and Sofra Bakery and Cafe, is opening a restaurant at the site formerly occupied by The Paddock. She and her chef de cuisine, Cassie Piuma, will open a relaxed mezze restaurant and bar, according to reports.

William Roche resigns from Board of Aldermen
William Roche, who served as Ward 1 alderman for nearly 17 years, resigned from the Board Thursday night, citing the need to spend more time with his family. Maureen Bastardi, who was the Ward 1 representative on the Somerville School Committee, was appointed as his replacement until the next election in the fall of 2013. The morning after Roche resigned, the mayor's office announced Roche would serve as an interim part-time personnel director for the city.

More information about Winter Hill shooting
The Somerville Police Department released some more information about the Dec. 1 shooting in Winter Hill that sent, it turns out, two people to the hospital. According to police reports, the shooting was connected to a botched marijuana deal, and there was also a stabbing. A cell phone number led detectives to the suspects.