Local Planning Links
Allston Brighton Discussion Groups & Weblogs
AllstonBrighton2006 is a Google group that posts lots of local events and news, including the agendas for the BAIA and the ACA meetings, are posted here.
AllstonBrighton02134 is an Allston Brighton community blog.
BC Neighbors Forum is a Google group that is concerned about Boston College's Institutional Master Plan process.
Brighton Centered is a community blog that is, well, centered on Brighton (but the news it posts affects Allston as well).
Allston Brighton Development Proposals
View a proposal for a storage facility on Lincoln Street
City of Boston Planning Links
Below are terms and links that may be helpful in understanding planning terms. The agency responsible for planning and development in Boston is the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA). Many of the links below are to the BRA's extensive website.
Boston’s Zoning Code
The Boston Zoning Code rests on the authority of Commonwealth law, specifically, Chapter 665 of the Acts of 1956. Through this act, the Zoning Board can approve and create zoning code, and the Boston Redevelopment Authority is delegated a review and advisory role to the Zoning Board.
Article 80
Article 80 describes the guidelines that govern the review, through a public process, of development projects in the City of Boston.
Article 51, Zoning Code for Allston Brighton
Article 51 of the Zoning Code provides zoning specifically for Allston Brighton. It categorizes property into different types of land uses: single-family, multi-family, neighborhood business subdistrict, etc. For each of these categories, it defines uses and physical characteristics as either allowed, conditional, or forbidden. For example, building height over 35 feet is considered forbidden in a Single-Family zoned area.
Zoning Appeals Process
Any new development that is not conditional or forbidden by zoning code must be approved by the Boston Zoning Board through an appeals process. Without going through this process, a building permit cannot be obtained. There is always a public hearing that is advertised in the Boston Globe or the Boston Herald. Concerned residents are able to attend, testify, and participate.
Often, the Zoning Board looks to recommendations from neighborhood groups, such as the Allston Civic Association or the Brighton Allston Improvement Association, for guidance. If the project is approved, then the applicant must meet with the Boston Redevelopment Authority for a Design Review. If the Design Review goes smoothly, the Zoning Board will provide final signoff of the project.
Other City Planning Links
Parks & Recreation Department: 2002-2006 Open Space Plan
Regional Planning Links
The Metropolitan Area Planning Council is a regional planning agency that examines issues such as affordable housing and land use planning in the cities and towns around Boston.
The Charles River Watershed Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of the Charles River and its watershed.