Commissioner Bakke unveils 17 surplus properties for expedited housing development in Massachusetts

In a significant move to address the housing crisis in Massachusetts, Governor Healey announced the release of an inventory of surplus state-owned land during a recent government meeting. This initiative, part of the Affordable Homes Act, aims to expedite the process of transforming unused properties into much-needed housing.

As the meeting unfolded, Secretary of Housing and Economic Development highlighted the streamlined approach enabled by the new legislation. Previously, the process of disposing of state properties could take up to 24 months, often mired in local approvals and legislative hurdles. Now, with the red tape removed, the state can swiftly make these lands available for housing development.

The first batch of properties, totaling 17 sites ranging from 5 to 400 acres, was unveiled to a packed room of developers and community development corporations. This enthusiastic turnout underscores the pressing demand for housing solutions across the Commonwealth. The properties, strategically located throughout the state, are expected to yield thousands of new housing units, addressing the urgent needs of residents.

Commissioner Boehke emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that past administrations had discussed utilizing state land for housing but lacked the necessary tools to implement such plans effectively. The Affordable Homes Act not only facilitates the disposal of surplus properties but also sets a minimum requirement of four housing units per acre, encouraging maximum utilization of these sites.

Looking ahead, the state plans to auction these properties in September, with additional requests for proposals to follow. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the housing development process is as efficient as possible, with the goal of building homes quickly to alleviate the housing shortage.

Governor Healey expressed optimism about the initiative, stating that transforming abandoned buildings and vacant land into housing is crucial for families struggling to find affordable homes. By leveraging these surplus properties, the administration hopes to drive down housing costs and create a more sustainable future for Massachusetts residents.

As the state moves forward with this ambitious plan, the focus remains clear: to turn unused land into vibrant communities, providing homes for those in need and fostering economic growth across the region.