The City of Boston and Northeastern University have entered a new five-year Payment-In-Lieu-of-Taxes (PILOT) agreement and a ten-year Institutional Master Plan (IMP). According to a City of Boston announcement, these agreements include commitments related to housing, community benefits, and campus development. Mayor Michelle Wu stated that the goal is to align the university’s growth with the needs of Boston’s neighborhoods.
The IMP outlines eight new university projects, including on-campus student housing, renovations to Matthews Arena, and additional academic and community-focused facilities. Each project will undergo review under the City’s Article 80 development process.
Northeastern has committed $10 million over the next decade to support housing stabilization programs in Boston. The university also plans to reduce its off-campus student population by adding 1,000 new student beds within five years. The City of Boston will monitor these efforts through the University Accountability Ordinance report and may require further action if the off-campus population increases.
Matthews Arena will undergo redevelopment as part of the IMP, with plans to preserve historical elements such as the terracotta arches from the 1920 structure. The project is expected to contribute to affordable housing and workforce training initiatives. Northeastern Vice President and Chief of Planning Kathy Spiegelman noted the importance of aligning campus development with community needs.
Under the new PILOT agreement, Northeastern’s annual cash payments to the City of Boston are projected to increase from $1,900,000 in FY25 to $2,600,000 in FY30, a 36.8% rise. These funds will support City priorities, including initiatives in Nubian Square and Roxbury.
Northeastern will also provide $37 million in community benefits over the five-year PILOT agreement, supporting public education, housing, and public space access. These contributions will be reported annually to the City of Boston.
The current agreement runs through June 30, 2030. Both the City of Boston and Northeastern intend to renew their partnership with a new PILOT agreement at that time.
