Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey announced draft regulations to accelerate environmental review of qualifying housing projects. The proposal would allow these projects to receive Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act review with the simpler Environmental Notification Form rather than the detailed Environmental Impact Report, thereby cutting the review process down from a year to 30 days.
“We are bringing urgency to addressing this housing crisis, and this is a game changer for the development of more housing in Massachusetts and bringing down housing costs for everyone,” said Healey.
To qualify, a project must meet seven criteria: They include the following:
- A minimum of 67% residential development;
- Must meet certain unit-per-acre thresholds, which vary by type of housing;
- Must be land-efficient;
- Must meet energy efficiency standards;
- Must be constructed outside the current floodplain and other highest hazard areas;
- Must meet utility access requirements; and
- Must limit the extent of new traffic.
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