Sudbury boards launch 12-month sprint to MBTA Communities zoning compliance

SUDBURY — November 20, 2023 — Sudbury boards begin 12-month race to comply with state's MBTA Communities Act. The Select Board and Planning Board met jointly Nov. 20 and heard newly hired Planning and Community Development Director Adam Burney explain that Sudbury, an "adjacent community" under the 3A law, must adopt by-right multifamily zoning for a 50-acre district capable of 750 units at 15 units per acre, or lose eligibility for MassWorks and one-stop grants. The Massachusetts Housing Partnership will fund roughly $25,000 of consulting work by VHB, which begins zoning review in December. Planning Board member Justin said five existing parcels — anchored by Coldbrook Crossing's 40R district and the Meadow Walk overlay — already total 61.58 acres and contain 581 units plus 48 senior beds. "We're kind of already there," he said. Select Board member Dan Carty warned the boards must distinguish "communicating and educating" residents before the May 2024 Town Meeting vote. Chair Janie Dretler opened with a statement condemning social media claims that the board had not denounced the Oct. 7 Hamas attack.