IPSWICH – The Town of Ipswich has launched a new webpage for residents to learn more about new multi-family housing guidelines for MBTA communities.
The webpage provides information on the Town’s planning process for Section 3A of the State’s Zoning Act. The Act requires that the 175 communities with access to MBTA service, including Ipswich, create a district or districts where multi-family housing is permitted as of right.
The Massachusetts Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) posted its final guidelines for the zoning requirement on Aug. 10, 2022, and revised the guidelines on Oct. 21, 2022. The guidelines state that the established zoning district must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum gross density of 15 units per acre and minimum land area of 50 acres
- 40 percent of the district must be located no more than one half-mile from the commuter rail station
- No age restrictions
- Suitable for families with children
During the next year, the Town, supported by volunteers in the 3A Task Force, will be leading a planning process with extensive community engagement to determine the location and details of Ipswich’s district(s). Residents can view the current project timeline via the webpage, which outlines all phases, task force milestones, and community engagement events planned for 2023 and 2024.
Residents are encouraged to view the webpage, www.ipswichma.gov/978/Section-3A, to learn more about the project. Those with questions should contact Andrea Bates at andreab@ipswichma.gov.
