Northborough plans 8 new affordable housing units for veterans on Village Center Drive

The Northborough Select Board convened on April 9, 2025, to discuss critical developments in affordable housing within the community. The primary focus of the meeting was a proposed project aimed at adding eight new affordable housing units in the Village Center Drive area, specifically designated for veterans, including four units that will be handicap accessible.

The discussion highlighted the pressing need for affordable housing in Northborough, with a current waiting list exceeding 20,000 individuals, including over 5,000 seeking one-bedroom units. Among these, 274 are veterans, many of whom reside or work in Northborough. The proposed project, estimated to cost $2 million, is expected to be funded through a combination of sources: $880,000 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA), $300,000 from the Housing Authority, and additional funds anticipated from the State Executive Office of Housing.

Board members emphasized the importance of this initiative not only for addressing the housing crisis but also for maintaining compliance with Massachusetts Chapter 40B regulations. Currently, Northborough has 10.28% of its housing stock classified as affordable. However, with over 50 new market-rate units either built or in the planning stages, the town risks falling below the critical 10% threshold, which could expose it to large-scale, unfriendly housing developments.

Concerns regarding parking and space were raised during the meeting. Board members reassured attendees that the project includes a well-developed plan for parking expansion, which will accommodate the new units without impacting existing facilities, such as the nearby library.

The board also discussed the potential for further affordable housing initiatives, including the possibility of targeting additional veterans or senior housing to bolster the town's compliance with Chapter 40B. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of supporting the proposed project to enhance Northborough's affordable housing stock and safeguard the community against unwanted developments.

In summary, the Select Board's meeting underscored the urgent need for affordable housing solutions in Northborough, with the proposed project serving as a vital step toward addressing this issue while ensuring the town remains compliant with state housing regulations.