Boston – The Boston Zoning Commission has unanimously voted to add Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing requirements to Boston’s zoning code, marking the final step in the amendment’s approval process prior to the Mayor’s signature.
The zoning amendment, one part of the Walsh Administration’s overall efforts to address discriminatory housing practices, will require developers in Boston to take substantial steps to stem displacement and provide further access to housing to those historically discriminated against.
The amendment was unanimously approved by both the Boston Planning & Development (BPDA) board of directors and the Boston City Council in December 2020.
“This zoning amendment will codify the work we are doing every day at the BPDA to create better access to safe and affordable housing for Boston’s residents,” said BPDA director, Brian Golden. “In Boston, we are committed to advancing real solutions to solve our most challenging problems….”
With this amendment, the BPDA will require proposed development projects and/or planned development areas undergoing Article 80 review to consider impacts on area residents historically discriminated against so that steps can be taken to reduce those impacts.
