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It may not please those who think the town is already overdeveloped, but Tuesday, the Town of Franklin announced that it has been designated as a 2026 Housing Choice Community by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, recognizing the Town’s ongoing efforts to support housing growth and expand access to housing opportunities.
On Monday, April 13, the Town was recognized by the Healey-Driscoll Administration, along with 28 other communities, for taking concrete steps to support housing production. This designation reflects Franklin’s commitment to planning for sustainable growth and meeting the evolving housing needs of its residents.
As a Housing Choice Community, Franklin is now eligible to apply for the Commonwealth’s Housing Choice Grant Program. The designation also provides additional consideration in several state funding opportunities, including the MassWorks Infrastructure Program, Seaport Economic Council Grant Program, Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Complete Streets Funding Program, MassDOT Capital Projects Program, and the LAND and PARC Grant Programs.
The Housing Choice Initiative encourages municipalities to adopt best practices and policies that promote responsible housing development, support economic growth and increase access to opportunity across the state.
“This designation reflects Franklin’s proactive approach to supporting housing opportunities that serve residents at all stages of life,” said Town Administrator Jamie Hellen. “We appreciate the Commonwealth’s recognition and look forward to continuing our work to advance thoughtful and sustainable development in our community.”
[IMAGE: Station 117 under construction, Google Streetview]
