2024 Housing Institute conference materials HERE

MBTA Zoning Technical Assistance


This program will support MBTA communities seeking to comply with the new provision in the $262 million Economic Development Bond Bill of 2021. The bill included modifications to the state's zoning act (Chapter 40A, Section 18), adding a new section (3A) which directs 175 MBTA communities to adopt zoning where multi-family housing is permitted by right.

On August 10, 2022, the state released final guidelines for the new law. To help MBTA communities comply with the new law, MHP's will provide technical assistance in collaboration with Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.

The 3A-TA program components will include:

  • Training: MHP will develop a series of instructional webinars that will complement DHCD outreach on Section 3A goals and technical compliance requirements, focusing on “big picture” and adjacent topics including incorporating affordability requirements into your multi-family district, providing safe and complete streets in transit areas, and building support for multi-family housing. To watch our 10-part webinar series, click here.
  • Direct Technical Assistance for MBTA Communities: Fifty three municipalities are currently receiving free, direct technical assistance from pre-qualified consultants through our initial round of 3A-TA grant awards. Applications will now be accepted on a rolling basis. Eligible activities include siting and mapping the district, developing use and intensity requirements and calculating capacity yield, and assistance with the compliance application. Email MHP Senior Planner Katy Lacy for more information or apply at MHP 3A-TA Application.

  • 3A-TA Information Clearinghouse: Below is the 3A-TA Clearinghouse featuring the latest information to help communities comply with the new requirements. Resources will be posted in collaboration with DHCD’s Community Services Division, and will complement guidance available from DHCD, Citizens Planning Training Collaborative (CPTC), the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development (EOHED) and other partners.

3A-TA Clearinghouse

MBTA zoning requirement resources

Public outreach

Tools for planners

Zoning & Transportation

More information