Massachusetts is taking a bold step to tackle its housing crisis with the release of "A Home for Everyone: A Comprehensive Housing Plan for Massachusetts." This plan, the first of its kind for the state, aims to boost housing production, cater to different community needs, and dampen the high costs plaguing Massachusetts residents. Governor Maura Healey's administration, in partnership with the Housing Advisory Council, sweated over the details to tailor a plan that promises to push the state towards economic mobility for its citizens, as reported by the Office of the Governor.
Governor Healey remarked, according to the Office of the Governor news release, "For the first time, Massachusetts has a statewide housing plan. Our administration is not kicking the can down the road when it comes to addressing the high housing costs that are holding too many of our residents and our businesses back." The plan itself necessitates at least 222,000 new housing units over the next decade to meet a growing demand and drive down living costs.
Creation of the plan wasn't a solitary journey; it involved voices from across the state, gathering input from more than 3,000 individuals during 14 regional listening sessions. This collective brainstorm is reflected in the strategies that the plan has detailed to combat housing challenges, including the promotion of accessory dwelling units and the newly forged Momentum Fund for mixed-income multifamily housing development. Furthermore, Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus emphasized in the same Mass.gov statement, "The rising cost of housing has impacted everyone," as stated by the Office of the Governor.
Legislation like the Affordable Homes Act has already laid the groundwork for new housing options. With the ink still fresh from Governor Healey's signing of the act, 65,000 housing units are expected to rise. This comes in hand with support from funds like the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund for infrastructure aiding in new developments and an energized Housing Development Incentive Program spotlighted in Healey's tax cuts package, which has multiplied housing production in Gateway Cities by a staggering 600 percent. In light of these moves, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll pointed out, "We have the tools and strategies in place to do it," as per the Office of the Governor.
As spring approaches, a digital version of the housing plan will launch, featuring interactive tools to track progress. This plan highlights the state's commitment to creating more inclusive and affordable housing, and could serve as a model for other states facing similar housing challenges.
