Overview
The MBTA Communities Law (MGL c. 40A, s. 3A) requires municipalities adjacent to MBTA commuter lines (and municipalities adjacent them) to provide at least one zoning district that allows a minimum of 15 dwelling units per acre. The zoning district should located in proximity to adequate transportation. The minimum total number of dwelling units required is determined by the classification and size of the town. Ashby is classified as an Adjacent Small Town. For Ashby the minimum total number of dwelling units required is 62. The minimum area required for that number of dwelling units at the required 15 units per acre is 4.2 acres.
Compliance
Final compliance is the approval by Town Meeting of a zoning district that meets the requirements. Final compliance for Ashby is required by December 31, 2025. The Planning Board with the assistance of Elizabeth Wood, Land Use Agent, is taking steps to meet the interim requirements. Ashby has received interim compliance approval for 2024.
Documents:
- Proposed MBTA Communities Compliant District Map
- Grants at Risk for Failure to Comply
- Multifamily Requirements for MBTA Communities
- Ashby Compliance Action Plan 1/11/2023
- Attorney General’s MBTA Community Advisory
- MBTA Communities Model Bylaw
- MBTA Communities Presentation slides, July 10, 2023
Next Steps:
- The Planning Board will develop a MBTA Communities zoning bylaw with MRPC as a consultant through February 2025. The public is invited to participate in developing the bylaw.
- The Planning Board will hold a hearing on the proposed bylaw in March or April.
- May 2025 a MBTA Communities bylaw and zoning district map will be presented to Town Meeting for a vote.