FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 07/10/2025
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
City of Framingham Achieves Compliance with MBTA Communities Law
FRAMINGHAM - The City of Framingham has officially been recognized for compliance with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Communities Law under Section 3A, marking a significant milestone in the city's housing and transit-oriented development strategy.
This determination, made by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC), highlights Framingham's dedication to meeting the state's housing goals while fostering livable, sustainable communities. The City was notified Wednesday, July 9, by the Commonwealth.
"This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our community, as well as our commitment to providing Framingham residents with more housing options and sustainable growth. Achieving compliance with the MBTA Communities Law is a critical step forward in ensuring that Framingham continues to be a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking City,” said Mayor Charlie Sisitsky. “We are excited to move forward with the opportunities this opens up for our community, including access to the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund, which will help us continue to develop a more livable and affordable Framingham for all."
In response to the MBTA Communities Act, Mayor Charlie Sisitsky submitted the existing zoning regulations that were in place when Framingham was still a Town, which had been approved by both the Board of Selectmen and Town Meeting.
This December 2024 submission, days before the Commonwealth’s deadline, was instrumental in securing conditional compliance for the City of Framingham under the MBTA Communities Law.
By leveraging these previously established zoning measures, the City has made significant progress in aligning with the state’s goals for sustainable, transit-oriented development.
In its formal review of Framingham's Central Business District (CBD) application, the EOHLC confirmed that the city’s zoning and housing plans align with the requirements of the MBTA Communities Law, a key piece of legislation designed to promote multi-family housing development in areas served by public transit.
Key Compliance Highlights Include:
- Land Area: The Central Business District spans 225 acres, well above the required minimum of 50 acres.
- Multi-family Unit Capacity: The city has a capacity for 5,348 multi-family units, exceeding the law's minimum requirement of 4,355 units.
- Density: Framingham's Central Business District boasts an estimated density of 25.4 dwelling units per acre, surpassing the law's 15 units per acre threshold.
- Transit-Oriented Development: At least 40% of the district's required land area and unit capacity is located within transit station areas.
Framingham is now eligible to access funding through the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund, a grant program designed to support municipalities as they plan and implement housing developments in areas near public transit. This fund is part of the Community One Stop for Growth program, which streamlines the application process for communities seeking financial support.
What This Means for Framingham
This determination reflects the City’s ongoing efforts to enhance its housing infrastructure and provide equitable, affordable housing options for all residents.
With the Central Business District now in compliance, Framingham is positioned to continue its growth as a sustainable, transit-oriented city.
In addition to meeting state criteria, the city’s Inclusionary Housing requirements ensure that 13% of all new multi-family units will be set aside as deed-restricted affordable housing, further promoting economic diversity and inclusivity within the district.
“Framingham’s commitment to sustainable growth and affordable housing continues to drive our efforts in shaping a more inclusive community. The completion of the affordable housing feasibility study, conducted by the MetroWest Economic Development Center at Framingham State University, is a key milestone in ensuring that our Central Business District is not only compliant with state criteria but also aligned with the needs of our residents,” said City of Framingham Planning Director Sarkis Sarkisian, Planning Director.
Next Steps for the City
While the City is in full compliance, the EOHLC has outlined important considerations regarding potential zoning and permitting processes, advising against measures that may inadvertently reduce the capacity for multi-family housing within the district. Framingham must ensure that any future developments continue to meet the multi-family housing goals set by the MBTA Communities Law.
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