FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 12/23/2024
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
City Launches Interactive Map of Community Preservation Projects
FRAMINGHAM - In an effort to enhance transparency and interactivity with residents, the City of Framingham launched a new map showcasing the projects of the Framingham Community Preservation Committee, utilizing software from the international company MapMe.
Public Information Officer Susan Scully Petroni said the Community Preservation Act project map is the inaugural launch utilizing the new MapMe software.
The interactive Community Preservation Project map can be viewed at this link - Interactive Project Map | City of Framingham, MA Official Website
“This user-friendly MapMe feature empowers City staff to easily update and maintain the maps, ensuring that residents always have access to the most current information,” said Mayor Charlie Sisitsky. “With this MapMe tool, Framingham aims to foster a more informed and involved community, bridging the gap between residents and local government initiatives.”
Community Preservation Committee Coordinator Heather O’Donnell worked with Petroni, and the City’s webmaster Renan Pinheiro to launch the CPC project map on the City’s website this month.
“The Framingham Community Preservation Committee is committed to moving forward community housing, outdoor recreation, open space and historic preservation projects that benefit residents throughout the entire City. This new interact map will enable Framingham residents to visualize the location of approved Community Preservation Act projects and easily understand the impact these projects will have on the community,” said O’Donnell.
For each CPA project on the map, there is an icon that identifies the type of project - open space, historic preservation, affordable housing, and outdoor recreation.
Each project has a photo, a project description, CPA funds approved for the project and a link to the project status, explained Pinheiro.
The MapMe software enables the City to develop vibrant, interactive maps without the need for coding.
“I think this map is a great addition to the website. It allows the public to see where the approved projects are located. Additionally, it indicates that the projects are spread across the entire community and not concentrated in any one area of the City,” said Community Preservation Committee Chair Tom Mahoney.
Residents approved the Community Preservation Act via a ballot initiative in November of 2020.
As of July 1, 2021, a 1% surcharge on property taxes was set aside to fund community preservation projects.
A 9-member Committee oversees the fund and votes on projects to submit to City Council for final review. The first projects were approved in Fiscal Year 2023.
The MapMe software has multiple uses, said Petroni, who said the City has plans for additional interactive maps.
“The City is already utilizing software to map recreational sites and parks,” said Petroni. “The project began this summer and is expected to launch in 2025.”
Future uses, said Petroni of the MapMe software, “is to create a comprehensive map highlighting veterans' memorials and historical markers throughout the City of Framingham.”
“It could serve to identify road construction projects, showcase holiday decorations throughout the city, or mark local businesses within the community,” said the Public Information Officer for the City of Framingham.
The MapMe software allows the City to create a map with a dozen location or more than 10,000 locations.
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