29 Jan 2025 10:00
Why Massachusetts Might Sue Its Cities Over Zoning Codes
In 2021, Massachusetts signed a law requiring communities that are served by the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) to legalize multifamily housing development near MBTA transit stations. Recently, a state court ruled that the state has the authority to sue cities and towns that don’t comply.
In this episode of Upzoned, Abby and Chuck discuss whether that’s a good idea, the broader trend of states intervening in city zoning practices, and how the root issue is actually poor transportation investment practices.
ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES-
“Court Ruling Paves the Way For State to Sue Towns With Exclusionary Zoning Laws” by Christian MilNeil, StreetsblogMASS (January 2025).
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“Our Financial System Favors Large-Scale Development…but at What Cost?” with Coby Lefkowitz.
