On Tuesday, December 10, the Fitchburg City Council voted 7-2 to revise downtown zoning regulations, aligning with the 2021 MBTA Communities Act. This act requires 177 Massachusetts cities and towns, including Fitchburg, to accommodate multifamily housing near public transportation.
The updated zoning regulations now allow multifamily housing developments by right in designated areas, rather than by special permit. This change is anticipated to enhance the local economy, expand the availability of workforce housing, and foster more inclusive communities.
“The details of the changes are slightly technical, but the practical upshot is that little or nothing will change in the near-term future,” City Council President Anthony Zarrella said.
However, Zarrella noted that the changes could simplify the process of building denser housing in the area, if existing buildings are demolished or undergo extensive remodeling, the Sentinel & Enterprise reported.
Adhering to the MBTA Communities Act is essential for Fitchburg’s eligibility for various state grants linked to road, infrastructure, and economic development projects. Zarrella said that non-compliance could risk the city’s access to approximately a dozen grants.
Zarrella added that the total annual budget for FY 2025 is approximately $170 million, and that grant funding represents a significant portion of the city’s discretionary budget.
“Even grants amounting to $1-2 million can mean the difference between a ‘comfortably’ balanced budget and a ‘tighten our belts’ budget,” Zarrella said.
According to the Sentinel & Enterprise, some council members resisted the regulatory changes, describing them as “heavy-handed mandates” imposed by the state.
The zoning updates underwent a thorough review process with three readings before approval, following the council’s protocol for ordinance adoption to ensure comprehensive discussion and consideration.
The city council amended the Fitchburg Zoning Ordinance following recommendations from the Community Development & Planning Board. These updates will ensure that Fitchburg adheres to the MBTA Communities Act requirements by the December 31, 2024 deadline.
In the past, Fitchburg has received several grants, such as the MassWorks planning grant for redesigning Moran Square and the Massachusetts Downtown Initiative award for downtown marketing plans. Zarrella noted that the funding from these grants has made it possible to launch new projects and assist developers, thereby enhancing residential, commercial, and community development in the city.
The city council’s endorsement of the zoning changes underscores its dedication to responsible growth and adherence to state regulations, the Sentinel & Enterprise reported. As Fitchburg progresses, the council is committed to making well-informed decisions that are advantageous for the entire community.
For further information on the city’s zoning regulations and development projects, visit the City of Fitchburg’s website or contact the Building & Zoning Department at 978-829-1880.
