In a groundbreaking move, the Cambridge City Council has voted to eliminate exclusionary single-family zoning, allowing for the development of up to six-story residential buildings in all of Cambridge’s neighborhoods. This historic rezoning, spearheaded by Councilors Burhan Azeem and Sumbul Siddiqui, marks a significant shift in the city’s zoning regulations, paving the way for increased housing development and affordability.
The decision to abolish single-family zoning in Cambridge is a bold and ambitious move that sets a new precedent for cities across the nation. Councilor Azeem, who is also a board member of Abundant Housing Massachusetts, describes this reform as one of the most significant changes to zoning in decades. According to Jesse Kanson-Benanav, the executive director of Abundant Housing Massachusetts, Cambridge is now one of the only cities in the state to eliminate exclusionary zoning practices, which restrict housing options to single-family dwellings.
Under the previous zoning regulations, it was estimated that only 350 new units would be built in Cambridge by 2040. However, the newly approved rezoning could potentially create over 4,800 units, according to the city’s Community Development Department. This reform, passed by an 8-1 vote, removes numerous barriers for developers, including restrictions on lot size, number of units, floor area ratios, and parking requirements.
One of the key provisions of the rezoning is the allowance of four-story residential buildings to be approved by right, without the need for special permits or permissions. Developers also have the option to add two additional stories under certain conditions. Furthermore, the rezoning mandates that buildings with five or six stories must have a minimum lot size of 5,000 square feet and allocate 20% of units for affordable housing.
While the majority of the City Council supported the rezoning, Councilor Catherine Zusy was the sole vote against the ordinance, expressing concerns that the proposal could lead to an increase in luxury housing and displacement of residents. However, Kanson-Benanav argues that the rezoning is aimed at increasing the overall housing stock in Cambridge, which will subsequently lead to greater affordability for all residents.
Currently, Cambridge has the highest median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the state, sitting at $2,900. Kanson-Benanav emphasizes that the city is facing a severe housing affordability crisis, and the rezoning is a critical step towards addressing this issue by increasing the supply of housing, even if it includes market-rate units.
Despite the opposition from some residents and councilors, Councilor Azeem remains optimistic about the impact of this rezoning. In a public statement, Azeem expressed hope that Cambridge’s progressive move will inspire other cities to take similar actions in tackling the national housing crisis. He stresses that local governments have the power to implement real solutions that benefit all residents, regardless of income level.
As the rezoning takes effect, Cambridge is poised to set a new standard for equitable and inclusive urban development, with a focus on increasing affordable housing options for its residents. This historic decision underscores the city’s commitment to addressing the pressing challenges of housing affordability and accessibility in a rapidly changing urban landscape.
