What's Up with Affordable Housing in Newton?
April 2026 Newsletter
Is the Zoning Board of Appeals a key to more affordable housing in Newton?
We all have seen the headlines about years-long zoning fights in the City Council, and, of course, the heated debates over the MBTA Communities Act. But another group is successfully working to increase housing in our neighborhoods, mostly under the radar: the Newton Zoning Board of Appeals (or ZBA).
In 2024 alone, the ZBA approved 479 apartments through the Chapter 40B process, including 105 deed-restricted affordable housing units with over half of those even more affordable than usual, at the 50% AMI level vs. the mandated 80% AMI level. That is hundreds of families, seniors, and working professionals who will get to call Newton home.
The ZBA is currently reviewing a project at 38 Crafts Street. After initial feedback indicated widespread dissatisfaction with the design from both the Board and the public, the developer is returning in May with a completely new proposal. This illustrates the significant influence the ZBA wields over local developments.
We talk a lot at Newton for Everyone about housing opportunities for people of all ages and means; the ZBA is where those opportunities actually get turned into approved housing projects. It is probably the most powerful housing body in the city.
Should you join the ZBA?
Right now, the city has put out a call for new members. Vacancies are opening up this May. If you want to see a Newton with housing options that actually support local businesses and a healthy environment, you should consider applying.
Read more about how the ZBA helps create more affordable housing
JOIN US Wednesday, April 29
What's up with affordable housing in Newton?
At Congregation Dorshei Tzedek, 60 Highland St. and on Zoom
Ann Houston, Chair of Newton's Affordable Housing Trust will help us take a look at what affordable housing there is in Newton, what approaches haveworked in the past to create that housing, and what steps the City can take to ensure we have affordable housing in the years to come.
More Info and RSVP
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