News Summary
The MBTA Communities Act is driving the development of over 4,000 multifamily housing units across Massachusetts. Recent proposals, including a significant 752-unit complex in Braintree, reflect a surge in interest and competition among builders. While economic uncertainties pose challenges, communities are adapting to new zoning requirements aimed at addressing the housing shortage. The law has been upheld as constitutional, and further legislation is being introduced to support housing development efforts.
Braintree, Massachusetts—The MBTA Communities Act, a significant piece of legislation enacted four years ago, is driving the development of over 4,000 multifamily housing units across Massachusetts. The law, which requires towns with transit stops to create zoning districts specifically for multifamily housing, has seen substantial progress as of July 15, with 140 communities either adopting or submitting multifamily rezoning plans.
Recent proposals include a large-scale 752-unit apartment complex in Braintree by Dallas-based Trammell Crow Residential, which is one of three new proposals in the town, contributing to a total of 437 additional units. This uptick in proposals reflects a growing competition among multifamily builders within historically resistant communities, leading to expectations of thousands more units entering the development pipeline.
The property located at 10 Plain St. in Braintree, currently an underused 31-acre site with vacant industrial and office buildings, provides a prime opportunity for residential development. Recent housing initiatives include a 189-unit project in Needham by Greystar and a 248-unit development near the Wellington Orange Line stop in Medford, showcasing the interest in multifamily housing solutions throughout the region.
This legislative initiative has garnered attention for its role in changing perceptions about development in various Massachusetts towns. Urban planning experts noted that communities embracing the MBTA Communities initiative are achieving better outcomes in fulfilling the law’s objectives. Towns like Braintree, Needham, Watertown, and Westwood have emerged as notable examples of municipalities actively welcoming new housing projects.
Additionally, a 530-unit project has been proposed in Westford following the town’s adoption of an aggressive zoning plan in April, which exceeds state requirements. Similarly, Lexington has plans for a 319-unit development on Militia Drive, with existing projects such as a 312-unit apartment complex at 17 Hartwell Ave. already under construction.
Despite the optimism surrounding these developments, the housing market is facing challenges due to economic uncertainty and high development costs. As communities navigate compliance with the MBTA Communities Act, not all municipalities are progressing at the same pace. As of July 11, 2025, 99 communities have achieved full compliance, 69 are in interim compliance, and three towns remain non-compliant.
The Massachusetts Superior Court’s recent ruling upheld the MBTA Communities Act as constitutional, dismissing challenges from municipalities arguing that the law imposes unfunded mandates. It is important to note that while some towns are making minimal compliance efforts, the aim of the act is to encourage genuine housing development in response to ongoing housing shortages.
In response to barriers developers face, new legislation titled “An Act to Support Yes in My Backyard” aims to further lower development obstacles. Developers are optimistic about the long-term success of the MBTA Communities Act, with expectations of increased project proposals in the near future. This legislation represents a concerted effort by the state to foster collaboration with communities, ultimately addressing the critical shortage of housing in Massachusetts.
In summary, the MBTA Communities Act continues to reshape the housing landscape in Massachusetts, with significant developments underway and more on the horizon as communities adapt to new zoning requirements and work toward meeting the increasing demand for multifamily housing.
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Additional Resources
- Boston.com: MBTA Communities
- Wikipedia: MBTA Communities Act
- NBC Boston: Judge Upholds MBTA Housing Law
- Google Search: MBTA Communities Act
- Spectrum News: MBTA Communities Law Compliance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Affordable Housing
- Patriot Ledger: Marshfield Suing Over MBTA Act
- Google News: Housing Challenges in Massachusetts
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