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

The Northborough Select Board recently discussed a significant initiative aimed at addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in the community. The proposed project will introduce eight new affordable housing units specifically designated for veterans, with four of these units being handicap accessible. This development is set to take place in the Village Center Drive area, which already hosts affordable housing options.

The urgency of this project is underscored by the staggering demand for affordable housing in Northborough, where over 20,000 individuals are currently on the waiting list. Among them are more than 270 veterans, many of whom either reside in or work in Northborough. The Select Board emphasized that this initiative not only serves a vulnerable population but also helps the town maintain its compliance with Chapter 40B regulations, which require that at least 10% of housing units be affordable. Currently, Northborough stands at 10.28%, but with new market units in the pipeline, the town risks falling below the threshold, which could lead to unwanted large-scale developments.

The estimated cost of the project is $2 million, with funding coming from various sources, including $880,000 from the Community Preservation Act (CPA) and $300,000 from the Housing Authority. The remaining funds are expected to be secured from the State Executive Office of Housing. This collaborative funding model highlights the community's commitment to creating affordable housing solutions.

Concerns about parking and space were raised during the meeting, but officials reassured attendees that the proposal includes plans for adequate parking expansion, ensuring that the development will not negatively impact the surrounding area, including the nearby library.

In addition to the veterans' housing project, the Select Board discussed the potential for further affordable housing initiatives, including an inclusionary zoning bylaw aimed at increasing the overall stock of affordable units in Northborough. This proactive approach is crucial as the town seeks to avoid the pitfalls associated with falling below the 10% compliance threshold, which could lead to developers bypassing local zoning regulations.

As Northborough moves forward with these housing initiatives, the Select Board remains focused on balancing community needs with sustainable development, ensuring that all residents have access to safe and affordable housing options.