The town is moving forward with plans to comply with the MBTA Communities Act, a state law aimed at promoting denser housing near transit areas. Over the past two years, town officials have been working on zoning changes that would allow for multifamily housing developments, which have historically been restricted.

At an upcoming fall town meeting, the town will present two proposals: a base compliance plan that meets the minimum requirements of the law, and a more ambitious neighborhood plan designed to encourage actual housing development. The latter aims to provide diverse housing options, including accessible units for seniors and individuals with functional needs.

The board discussed the importance of taking a clear policy position on these proposals, emphasizing the need for supportive housing as a community asset. There is a consensus among board members to endorse both plans, with the understanding that while the base compliance plan ensures legal adherence, the neighborhood plan could significantly impact housing availability.

Traffic studies have been conducted to assess the potential impact of new housing developments, with a consulting firm providing modeling to predict demographic changes and infrastructure needs. The studies suggest that the addition of new housing units could lead to an increase in school-age children, highlighting the broader implications of housing policy on community resources.

As the town prepares for the upcoming meeting, officials are urging community members to consider the benefits of increased housing options and the importance of supporting both proposals to address the ongoing housing challenges.