Framingham Community Preservation Committee Looks To 2026

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Looking to fund a community housing, outdoor recreation, open space or historic preservation project in 2026?

The Framingham Community Preservation Committee (CPC) is now accepting eligibility forms for projects seeking funding in Fiscal Year 2026. Projects must align with one of the four categories above, established under the Community Preservation Act.

Eligibility Forms will be accepted through Sept. 8.

The CPC follows a two-step review process, officials said.

Step one, eligibility, ensures that a proposed project meets the requirements for Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding. Applicants whose projects qualify will then be invited to complete step two, a full application for funding consideration.

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a Massachusetts state law passed in 2000 that helps cities and towns preserve open space, protect historic resources, create and support affordable housing, and expand outdoor recreation opportunities. It is funded by a local property tax surcharge combined with annual matching funds from the statewide Community Preservation Trust Fund.

Framingham voters approved the adoption of the CPA in November 2020 with a 1 percent property tax surcharge. The first $100,000 of a property’s assessed value is automatically exempt, and low- or moderate-income seniors may qualify for a full exemption by applying through the city, officials said.

Since Fiscal Year 2022, the program has generated more than $1.56 million in local revenue, with Framingham also receiving a state match of over $600,000 in its first year.

Each year, at least 10 percent of CPA revenues must be allocated to open space, historic preservation and affordable housing. The remaining funds may be directed to any eligible category, including outdoor recreation.

Up to 5 percent may also be used for administrative costs.