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Council backs study and committee review of letting small retail operate in residential areas
Summary
After public comment for and against allowing limited first-floor retail in residential neighborhoods, the council amended the order to send draft zoning language to relevant committees for public hearings and discussion before ordinance drafting; the amended motion passed with one absence recorded.
The Cambridge City Council voted to send draft language that would allow limited first-floor retail in residential areas to a joint meeting of relevant committees for further public hearings and review before any zoning ordinance changes are drafted.
Why it matters: The city’s recent multifamily upzoning did not legalize many small, neighborhood retail uses by right, leaving longtime corner stores and small food businesses vulnerable during redevelopment. Supporters said allowing limited retail by-right in some residential districts would increase walkability and…
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