Is Cambridge’s Multifamily Zoning Reform the Solution to Housing Woes?

January 13, 2025

The ongoing multifamily zoning petition in Cambridge has become a focal point of debate as city officials and residents grapple with the pressing issues of housing affordability and availability. During a nearly three-hour public comment session at a recent Ordinance Committee meeting, varying perspectives were shared on how best to address these concerns. The discussion centered around three potential courses of action: passing the current “four-plus-two” proposal, adopting an alternative “three-plus-three” proposal, or hitting the pause button to reevaluate and introduce a revised proposal. Each of these options presents its own set of advantages and challenges, and the passionate discourse highlights how multifaceted and critical this decision is for the community’s future.

The “Four-Plus-Two” Proposal: A Tall Order?

The “four-plus-two” proposal has been advocated as a viable solution to the city’s affordable housing woes, allowing for the development of four-story buildings throughout Cambridge. An additional two stories can be added if the building includes at least one affordable unit for every five units. Organizations such as A Better Cambridge and some Planning Board members have shown support for this proposal, arguing that it strikes a reasonable balance between increasing housing density and ensuring affordability. For advocates like Emma Bouton, the urgency of this reform is underscored by the rising rents and displacement pressures that many residents are facing. Bouton and other supporters believe that the implementation of the “four-plus-two” proposal would help in meeting Cambridge’s affordable housing needs without resulting in excessively tall buildings that might change the city’s character.

However, the “four-plus-two” proposal has its critics. Opponents worry about the potential consequences of such a zoning change on the city’s infrastructure and quality of life. Concerns range from increased traffic congestion to the potential strain on public services. Additionally, some residents are apprehensive about the environmental impact of more densely populated urban landscapes, particularly on green spaces and the local ecosystem. The debate over the “four-plus-two” proposal highlights the complex interplay between development, community character, and sustainability, making it clear that any solution must be carefully considered to address these multifaceted concerns effectively.

The “Three-Plus-Three” Proposal: A More Balanced Approach?

In contrast to the “four-plus-two” option, the “three-plus-three” proposal was put forward by Councillor Ayesha Wilson and is supported by the Cambridge Housing Justice Coalition. It envisions three-story buildings with an allowance for an additional three stories under the same affordability conditions. A distinctive feature of this proposal is the AHO (Affordable Housing Overlay) bonus for buildings that are 100 percent affordable. Proponents of the “three-plus-three” plan believe that it offers a better compromise by mitigating tenant displacement more effectively than the “four-plus-two” scheme. For example, resident Banti Gheneti emphasized the importance of preserving naturally occurring affordable housing, such as the iconic triple-decker homes, which could be safeguarded under this proposal.

Supporters argue that the “three-plus-three” proposal comprehensively addresses both the need for affordable housing and the conservation of Cambridge’s unique architectural heritage. By allowing buildings to reach six stories in height only if they meet specific affordability criteria, this approach aims to incentivize the inclusion of affordable units more effectively. Additionally, the AHO bonus for completely affordable buildings provides a significant incentive for developers to prioritize affordable housing projects. Critics, however, caution that while the “three-plus-three” proposal may be more conservative in terms of building height, it might not sufficiently address the scale of the housing shortage, raising questions about its long-term viability as a solution to the city’s pressing housing issues.

The Call for a Pause: Analyzing Impacts and Ensuring Inclusivity

The ongoing multifamily zoning petition in Cambridge is at the center of a heated debate, with city officials and residents wrestling with the urgent issues of housing affordability and availability. During a nearly three-hour public comment session at a recent Ordinance Committee meeting, diverse perspectives emerged on the best way to tackle these challenges. The discussion focused on three possible paths: passing the current “four-plus-two” proposal, adopting an alternative “three-plus-three” proposal, or pausing to reassess and introduce a revised approach. Each option offers distinct benefits and drawbacks, making the decision crucial and multifaceted. This passionate public discourse underscores how critical these zoning decisions are for the future of the community, reflecting the complexity of balancing growth, affordability, and livability in Cambridge. The engaged community highlights how involved and invested residents are in shaping their city’s development and ensuring a sustainable future for all.

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