Since the MBTA Communities Act was passed in 2021, questions, concerns, and criticism about the law have abounded. As 31 of the 177 towns and cities required to comply with the law reached their Feb. 13 deadline to submit action plans to the state, those questions have likely been renewed. The Avalon Apartments lie right next to the Norwood MBTA commuter train station.
We asked for your questions about the controversial multi-family zoning law. These experts answered.
Debunking 7 Myths About MBTA Communities Act
The MBTA Communities Act might make changes to housing in Norwood, sparking a mixture of curiosity, confusion, and fear among residents. With the goal of shedding light on common misconceptions, we reached out to housing and zoning experts to set the record straight. Emma Battaglia, a land use planner with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, and Ed Augustus, the Secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, provided valuable insights into these myths.
Myth: The state is forcing cities and towns to build new housing
One prevailing myth surrounding the MBTA Communities Act is the belief that the state is mandating cities and towns to construct new housing developments. However, Augustus clarifies that the law requires zoning for multi-family housing as of right, but it does not necessitate actual construction. By allowing development as of right, the law simplifies the process of incorporating multi-family housing into communities. Despite this, the challenges of development, such as financial costs and regulatory hurdles, still remain, making it a lengthy and complex process.
Battaglia adds that even if new housing is built, it is likely to be fewer units than the required 15 per acre due to practical development constraints. Zoning changes do not equate to immediate construction, as it is a long-term strategy that involves intricate planning and execution.
Myth: The new housing law lacks affordability provisions to address the state’s housing crisis
Another misconception revolves around the absence of affordability requirements in the law. While it is true that the MBTA Communities Act does not mandate affordable housing zoning, Augustus emphasizes that the law indirectly addresses the housing crisis by increasing housing options and reducing vacancy rates. Battaglia highlights the importance of inclusionary zoning programs, which allow municipalities to introduce affordable housing within developments voluntarily or mandatorily. The addition of any new housing, regardless of its affordability status, contributes positively to the overall housing landscape.
In a nutshell, the MBTA Communities Act is a multifaceted legislation that aims to streamline housing development processes while offering flexibility to communities. By dispelling these myths, residents can gain a clearer understanding of the law’s objectives and implications, paving the way for informed discussions and decision-making in the future.
