Milton Faces Funding Cut as Massachusetts Revokes Grant Over Controversial MBTA Communities Law Rejection

Milton faces funding cut and finds itself at odds with the MBTA Communities Law, resulting in the state revoking grants after residents rejected a contentious plan advocating multifamily housing near public transit.

Governor Maura Healey’s office announced on Wednesday that Milton is deemed non-compliant with the MBTA Communities Law, leading to the cessation of state grant funding. The recent vote against the housing plan has triggered consequences for the town’s financial support.

Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus, in a letter to Town Administrator Nicholas Milano, confirmed the loss of a $140,800 grant earmarked for seawall and access improvements. The grant was contingent upon the town’s adherence to the law’s requirements.

Milton will also forfeit eligibility for MassWorks and HousingWorks grants, putting it at a competitive disadvantage for various state grant programs.

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Enacted in January 2021 under former Gov. Charlie Baker, the MBTA Communities Law applies to 177 communities, demanding the establishment of multifamily zoning within half a mile of commuter rail stations, ferry terminals, or bus stations. These zoning districts must be without age restrictions and sustainable for families with children.

The significance of public transit is evident in Milton’s connection to the Mattapan trolley line along its northern boundary with Boston. The rejection of the housing plan by residents has now triggered tangible consequences, impacting the town’s access to crucial state funding.