Can Increased Housing Production And Smart Growth Co-Exist?

The secretary of the Massachusetts Office for Commonwealth Development explains how additional housing can be factored into models for regional growth.

1 minute read

January 19, 2006, 8:00 AM PST

By David Gest


"...we've turned the corner, and new state policies can continue to have an impact in the years ahead, allowing Massachusetts to hit the production rate that most experts say is necessary to increase supply and moderate prices -- critical to economic competitiveness and job growth."

By growing in a smart way, as directed under the Commonwealth Capital program, communities "...get a range of home styles and prices so the young and the old and municipal workers can live in town. They get less congestion because fewer car trips are necessary. They get distinctive, historic town centers that attracted most of us to New England in the first place. And they save money, because the infrastructure supporting development -- not to mention the police, fire, and school bus service -- doesn't have to be so far-flung."

Thanks to Anthony Flint

Wednesday, January 18, 2006 in The Boston Globe

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