Photo: James Rojas
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — The Cambridge City Council passed a proposal Monday that eliminates single-family zoning citywide.
This means developers can build multi-family housing units up to four stories high, without getting a permit.
The measure passed in an 8-1 vote. The council said it’s a landmark decision.
“This was an incredible, ambitious effort that demonstrates what's possible on the local level. We have accomplished the biggest upzoning in the entire country,” said Councilor Burhan Azeem.
The petition also states that some residential buildings can be up to six stories high if they include low- or moderate-income housing.
“It won’t solve housing affordability, but it will help. And now other towns and cities should follow our lead – that will make a huge difference,” said Councilor Patricia Nolan.
Residents, however, have mixed reactions to the new ordinance.
“There’s a great need for housing in Cambridge,” said Susan, a Cambridge resident.
Some residents were concerned the ordinance would encourage developers to build more luxury housing.
“Typically new housing development only leads to worsening of these gentrification effects,” said Jessica, another Cambridge resident.
WBZ’s James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.