Framingham Officially Compliant With MBTA Communities Act

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Framingham is officially compliant with the MBTA Communities Law, city officials announced Thursday.

This determination, made by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC), "highlights Framingham's dedication to meeting the state's housing goals while fostering livable, sustainable communities," officials said.

The City was notified on Wednesday of its status.

"This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our community, as well as our commitment to providing Framingham residents with more housing options and sustainable growth. Achieving compliance with the MBTA Communities Law is a critical step forward in ensuring that Framingham continues to be a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking City," said Mayor Charlie Sisitsky. "We are excited to move forward with the opportunities this opens up for our community, including access to the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund, which will help us continue to develop a more livable and affordable Framingham for all."

In response to the MBTA Communities Act, Mayor Charlie Sisitsky submitted the existing zoning regulations that were in place when Framingham was still a Town, which had been approved by both the Board of Selectmen and Town Meeting.

By leveraging these previously established zoning measures, the City has made significant progress in aligning with the state’s goals for sustainable, transit-oriented development, city officials said.

In its formal review of Framingham's Central Business District (CBD) application, the EOHLC confirmed that the city’s zoning and housing plans align with the requirements of the MBTA Communities Law, a key piece of legislation designed to promote multi-family housing development in areas served by public transit.

Framingham is now eligible to access funding through the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund, a grant program designed to support municipalities as they plan and implement housing developments in areas near public transit.