The TDI program has been highly effective in Gateway Cities closer to Boston with relatively strong real estate markets. But the impact has been minimal in weaker markets outside of I-495, where Massachusetts desperately needs new sources of economic growth. Now is the moment to do right by the communities that state economic development policy has neglected for far too long.
Senate budget key to future of housing and transportation in Gateway Cities
The Gateway Cities Journal
The Senate budget debate next week could determine how competitive Gateway Cities will be in the post-pandemic economy. At a key moment when housing and transportation investments could help make these communities more attractive for an age of remote work, the danger of missing out on the opening and backsliding is real. Housing: Housing Development
Baker’s Seminal Economic Development Legislation
The Gateway Cities Journal
Gateway City economic development leaders huddled on Zoom Wednesday for a call with Sec. Kennealy. The discussion offered valuable insight into how Gov. Baker’s $3.5 billion economic development/ARPA 2.0 bill could sow seeds for growth. Here are our first impressions of the governor’s final major contribution to economic development policy.
The House doubles down on Early College expansion
The Gateway Cities Journal
Massachusetts House Leadership unveiled an FY 2023 budget that includes $19 million for Early College. The FY 2023 budget now moves to the Senate. They must stay at it.
Gateway Hubs Project Director advocates for a flexible approach in MBTA Communities letter
MassINC’s Gateway Hubs Project Director André Leroux weighed in on DHCD’s draft guidelines for this “transit-oriented zoning” program, called MBTA Communities.
20 Gateway City Mayors and Managers Urge State to Fund Downtown Housing
20 Gateway City mayors and managers endorsed letters to MA State House and Senate leadership requesting meetings to address the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) project backlog. View their letters here.
Gateway Cities Look to Fuel Early College Expansion in the FY 23 State Budget
The Gateway Cities Journal
When the Gateway City Legislative Caucus convened on Monday to review FY 23 budget priorities, additional funding for Early College made their short list. Fully funding Dual Enrollment and Early College line items is critical to meet the growing demand for high-quality Early College programs in Gateway Cities.
Preliminary Thoughts on a 2022 Equitable Economic Development Bill
The Gateway Cities Journal
Seasonal patterns suggest a large economic development package will land on Beacon Hill during the month of March in an even year. Sec. Kennealy can make a compelling case for filing a bill laden with policies to ensure that the unprecedented federal investments flowing into Massachusetts generate equitable growth.
Preliminary Thoughts on ARPA 2.0
The Gateway Cities Journal
Governor Baker’s second ARPA spending bill is anticipated in the coming weeks. Rather than responding to emergencies, the state can now use these flexible funds for transformative long-term investments with a heavy focus on parts of the state beyond I-495.
Gateway Cities are Part of Solution to Mass. Segregation
Ben Forman featured in Banker & Tradesman
Research Director Ben Forman offers an effective housing strategy to address economic segregation in Massachusetts public schools in this Banker & Tradesman piece.