Community Corner
New Overlay District Could Bring Housing, Mixed-Use Growth To Marlborough
A proposed zoning change discussed at a recent City Council meeting could significantly alter the future of a stretch of Forest Street.
MARLBOROUGH, MA — A proposed zoning change discussed at a recent City Council public hearing could significantly alter the future of a key stretch of Forest Street, opening the door to more integrated residential and mixed-use development.
The proposal would establish a new Forest Street Residential Overlay District and rezone approximately 30.96 acres within the area, according to the public hearing notice.
The hearing was held during the City Council's meeting on Apr. 27 and was publicly noticed around Apr. 28 as part of a proposed amendment to Chapter 650 of Marlborough’s zoning ordinance. If approved, the change would create a new framework for how the land can be developed, potentially allowing a broader mix of housing and complementary uses than currently permitted.
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What the proposal would do
The overlay district would sit atop existing zoning, adding a new layer of regulations intended to guide development in a more coordinated way.
The zoning amendment would create the Forest Street Residential Overlay District, rezone roughly 30.96 acres within the district, and establish provisions to encourage residential and potentially mixed-use development, according to the public hearing notice.
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Eligible uses for the district include offices, banks, multifamily dwellings, restaurants, cafes, fitness clubs, retail, and distilleries, among other things.
Overlay districts are created to promote certain types of zoning in an area, according to the National Association of Home Builders. They are commonly used by municipalities to promote flexible and strategic development patterns.
The nearly 31-acre site represents a significant development opportunity that could influence local housing supply, traffic, and infrastructure needs and the overall character of the surrounding area.
Next, Marlborough City Council will consider the proposed amendment following the public hearing process, which may include revisions before a final vote.
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