In recent years, the issue of affordable housing has been a hot topic in many Massachusetts communities, and Andover is no exception. To address this concern and comply with the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority's (MBTA) zoning law, Andover is embarking on a journey that will shape the future of housing in the town. We'll explore the MBTA zoning law, its implications for Andover, and the steps the town is taking to ensure compliance.

The MBTA zoning law, passed by the state legislature in January 2021, seeks to tackle the affordable housing crisis by requiring communities served by the MBTA to establish at least one multi-family zoned district near transit stations. The goal is to promote affordable and accessible housing options for residents.

Andover, as a "commuter rail community," has until the end of 2024 to develop and adopt a zoning plan that aligns with the MBTA zoning law. While the town has some time, it's crucial to take proactive steps to ensure compliance.

1. Engaging with Residents:

The first step in the compliance process is to engage with residents and gather their input. Andover has formed a working group consisting of local residents who are actively meeting with various neighborhoods to gauge community preferences and concerns. These discussions are vital in determining the ideal location for the multi-family zoned district.

2. Site Assessments:

Over the summer, the town has conducted site assessments around transit stations, including the downtown station and Ballardvale station. These assessments help evaluate the existing neighborhoods' characteristics and infrastructure, providing insights into where the multi-family zoned district could be established most effectively.

3. Public Meetings:

Andover is planning public meetings to inform residents about the MBTA zoning law and the town's compliance efforts. These meetings provide an opportunity for residents to ask questions, express concerns, and gain a better understanding of the impact on the community.

4. Addressing Concerns:

Residents have voiced a range of concerns, including potential traffic increases, impacts on town services and schools, and employment opportunities. Town officials are actively listening to these concerns and working on strategies to address them while maintaining compliance with the law.

5. Compliance Deadline:

While Andover has until the end of 2024 to comply with the MBTA zoning law, the town is committed to meeting the deadline and ensuring that its zoning plan aligns with the state mandate.

Andover is actively taking steps to comply with the MBTA zoning law to address the affordable housing crisis. By engaging with residents, conducting site assessments, holding public meetings, addressing concerns, and meeting the compliance deadline, the town aims to create a zoning plan that benefits the community while adhering to the state mandate. Stay tuned for updates on Andover's journey toward affordable and accessible housing options for its residents.

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