Cape Cod Commission previews draft 2025 regional policy plan; public comment open through Sept. 24

Christy (Cape Cod Commission staff) opened the Barnstable County Commissioners meeting with a preview of the draft 2025 Regional Policy Plan, saying, “Well, good morning and, thanks for the opportunity to be here today to present the draft 2025 regional policy plan.” The public comment period for the draft closes Sept. 24, 2025.

The draft updates the Commission’s goals and objectives across natural, built and community systems and refocuses several chapters on implementation. Chloe Schafer, chief planner, and Erin Perry, deputy director, walked commissioners through major changes including new language to recognize finite natural resources, expanded treatment of climate adaptation alongside mitigation, and targeted recommended actions for water quality, housing and infrastructure.

Why it matters: the plan establishes regional priorities that guide the Commission’s regulatory review and recommendations to towns. The draft frames top priorities — protecting open space, restoring coastal and freshwater quality, climate resilience, historic preservation, housing attainability, infrastructure planning and economic resilience — and pairs many of those priorities with recommended regional actions meant to be implemented over…