FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 08/31/2025
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
Framingham Community Preservation Committee Accepting Project Eligibility Forms for Fiscal Year 2026
FRAMINGHAM - The Framingham Community Preservation Committee (CPC) is now accepting Eligibility Forms for projects seeking funding in Fiscal Year 2026. Projects must align with one of the four categories established under the Community Preservation Act: Community Housing, Outdoor Recreation, Open Space, or Historic Preservation.
Eligibility Forms will be accepted through Monday, September 8, 2025.
The CPC follows a two-step review process. Step one, eligibility, ensures that a proposed project meets the requirements for Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding. Applicants whose projects qualify will then be invited to complete step two, a full application for funding consideration.
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) is a Massachusetts state law passed in 2000 that helps cities and towns preserve open space, protect historic resources, create and support affordable housing, and expand outdoor recreation opportunities. It is funded by a local property tax surcharge combined with annual matching funds from the statewide Community Preservation Trust Fund.
Framingham voters approved adoption of the CPA in November 2020 with a 1% property tax surcharge. The first $100,000 of a property’s assessed value is automatically exempt, and low- or moderate-income seniors may qualify for a full exemption by applying through the City.
Since Fiscal Year 2022, the program has generated more than $1.56 million in local revenue, with Framingham also receiving a state match of over $600,000 in its first year.
Each year, at least 10% of CPA revenues must be allocated to open space, historic preservation, and affordable housing. The remaining funds may be directed to any eligible category, including outdoor recreation. Up to 5% may also be used for administrative costs.
In Framingham, the 9-member Community Preservation Committee was created to review and recommend projects for funding to the City Council, ensuring that CPA funds are invested in projects that benefit the community long-term.
For more information about the Community Preservation Act in Framingham, the application process, and to access the Eligibility Form, please visit the City’s website at: https://framinghamma.gov/3286/Community-Preservation-Committee
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