Due to a law signed by then Gov. Baker in 2020, several communities in eastern Massachusetts with MBTA access are required to create a district or districts allowing multifamily housing by right. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) guidelines indicate that Arlington is an “adjacent” community, and the new zoning district(s) do not have to be within proximity of Alewife Station.
On March 15, 2023, the Attorney General issued an advisory concerning enforcement of the law. By complying with this requirement, the Town will:
- remain eligible for important state grants for infrastructure projects;
- be able to participate in the state’s fossil fuel ban pilot program, which will advance the Town’s stated goal of creating net zero carbon emissions by 2050,
- take part in a regional response to the region’s housing crisis by encouraging development of smaller multifamily housing.
The Town, along with resident volunteers, has been involved in the planning process and is seeking community engagement to help finalize the details and location of the districts in Arlington.
Here is a link to the comment form – Please view and share your feedback by July 17th!
You can also find more information here.
And to assist the Coalition to Save the Mugar Wetlands in our ongoing fundraising, below is a QR code and link for making donations through our Go Fund Me page. Thank you!
Coalition to Save the Mugar Wetlands 