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Everett Housing Production Plan (Haitian Creole)

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Everett Housing Production Plan (Kreyòl Ayisyen)

Everett HPP Style-02

CHANGE LANGUAGE:

APÈSI

PATISIPE

KOMITE KONSILTATIF

KALANDRIYE

English

APÈSI

Everett Housing Production Plan (HPP) se yon kominote ak pwosesis ki baze sou done pou planifye avni lojman nan Everett. Plan an pral bay enfòmasyon sou kalite kay ki nesesè nan Everett, kòman pou sipòte rezidan yo ak objektif lojman ak defi yo, ak règleman lokal yo pou Vil la konsidere. Yon konsantre espesyal nan plan sa a se anpeche deplasman nan asire bezwen rezidan Everett yo satisfè pou yo pa bezwen chèche yon lòt kote pou lojman. Vil la te anboche Konsèy Planifikasyon Zòn Metwopoliten (MAPC) pou bay asistans teknik pou konplete HPP. Ansanm, Vil la, MAPC, yon Komite Konsiltatif, ak patnè kominotè yo pral travay pou fikse vizyon ak direksyon politik lojman nan Everett pou senk ane kap vini yo.

Everett HPP a pral satisfè tout egzijans yon Plan Pwodiksyon Lojman. Atravè pwosesis sa a, nou pral travay pou elaji epi divèsifye estòk lojman Everett pandan y ap ogmante abòdabilite pou moun ki gen yon seri revni. Vil la pral sèvi ak plan sa a pou sansibilize bezwen lojman nan kominote a, konekte epi aprann nan men popilasyon istorikman majinalize yo, amannman dekoupaj an zòn avanse, epi aplike lòt estrateji pou satisfè bezwen ak demann lojman. Pandan estrateji yo ap aplike, nou prevwa ke opòtinite lojman nan Everett pral elaji, epi risk deplasman yo pral redui. Plan an pral gide vil la tou sou ki kote pou dirije resous pou akonpli objektif sa yo.

Ou gen kesyon? Ou vle patisipe? Kontakte Alex Koppelman, Senior Regional Housing and Land Use Planner nan MAPC ([email protected]), Matthew S. Lattanzi, Esq. nan [email protected], Direktè Planifikasyon ak Devlopman Everett, ak Cathy Draine, Direktè Divèsite, Ekite, ak Enklizyon Everett nan [email protected].

PATISIPE

Enskri pou Mizajou Plan an: 

Antre non w ak adrès imel ou pou resevwa mizajou sou plan an ak evènman yo.

Evènman k ap vini yo:

Nou pral pataje enfòmasyon ak resous nan evènman kominote ki egziste deja yo ak fowòm nan tout vil la pou kolekte panse ak lide nan men rezidan Everett yo. Kèk nan evènman yo nou pral vizite byen lwen tèlman a:

  • Event: Everett Youth Workers Network monthly meeting
    When: December 13, 2023

EVÈNMAN PASE

  • Focus Group at La Comunidad Inc
    December 2, 2023 at La Comunidad

  • Everett Tree Lighting
    December 1, 2023, Everett Square

  • Everett Community Growers – Engagement Team Meeting
    Oct 10, 2023, virtual meeting

  • Eliot Family Resource Center’s Community Baby Shower
    Oct 3, 2023 at Eliot Family Resource Center

KOMITE KONSILTATIF

Pwosesis planifikasyon an ap dirije pa yon komite reprezantan vil ak kominote a. Plis manm komite yo ka rantre pita, men manm aktyèl yo nan lis anba a:

  • Eleanor Gayhart, Program Manager, Eliot Family Resource Center
  • Jay Monty, Director of Transportation and Mobility, City of Everett
  • Alexander Naumann, Principal, Keverian School
  • Jim Tarr, Planning Board Member, City of Everett
  • Laura Rosi, Chief Executive Officer, Housing Families
  • Dipendra Subedi, Board Member, Greater Boston Nepali Community (GBNC)

KALANDRIYE

Pwosesis planifikasyon an te kòmanse nan sezon ete 2023 epi li espere dire yon lane.

Ete 2023
Pwojè a kòmanse

Otòn 2023
Evalyasyon Konplè Bezwen Lojman ak Fikse Objektif 

Ivè 2023
Kontrent Devlopman ak Analiz Opòtinite, ak Evalyasyon Risk Deplasman

Prentan 2024
Devlopman Estrateji ak Pwodiksyon Delivrab

Ete 2024 
Plan an ap finalize epi soumèt bay Biwo Egzekitif Massachusetts pou Lojman ak Kominote Abitab (EOHLC)

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O Plano de Produção de Moradia de Everett (HPP por sua sigla em inglês)

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O Plano de Produção de Moradia de Everett (HPP por sua sigla em inglês)

Everett HPP Style-02

CHANGE LANGUAGE:

RESUMO

SE ENVOLVA

COMISSÃO DE CONSULTORIA

CRONOGRAMA

English

RESUMO

O Plano de Produção de Moradia de Everett (HPP por sua sigla em inglês) é um processo baseado na comunidade e em dados, visando o planejamento do futuro da questão habitacional em Everett. O plano fornecerá informações sobre os tipos de residências necessárias em Everett, como apoiar residentes no que diz respeito aos seus objetivos e desafios habitacionais, além de políticas locais a serem consideradas pela Cidade. A ênfase especial do plano é prevenir o deslocamento, assegurando que as necessidades dos residentes de Everett sejam supridas para que não precisem procurar por moradia em outro lugar. A Cidade contratou a Comissão de Planejamento da Área Metropolitana (MAPC por sua sigla em inglês) para fornecer assistência técnica para completar o HPP. Assim, a Cidade, a MAPC, uma Comissão de Consultoria e os colaboradores da comunidade trabalharão juntos para estabelecer a visão e rumo das políticas de habitação em Everett para os próximos cinco anos.

O HPP Everett cumprirá todos os requerimentos de um Plano de Produção de Moradia. Através deste processo, trabalharemos na expansão e na diversificação das opções de moradia de Everett ao mesmo tempo em que também melhoraremos a acessibilidade para pessoas de rendas variadas. A Cidade usará este plano para aumentar a conscientização sobre a necessidade de habitações na comunidade, fazer conexões com populações historicamente marginalizadas e aprender sobre as mesmas, avançar emendas de zoneamento, e implementar outras estratégias para suprir necessidades e demandas habitacionais. À medida que estratégias são implementadas, espera-se que oportunidades habitacionais em Everett sejam expandidas e o risco de despejo seja reduzido. O plano também direcionará a Cidade, guiando seus recursos para alcançar esses objetivos.

Você tem perguntas? Quer se envolver? Entre em contato com Alex Koppelman, Planejador Sênior Regional de Moradia e de Uso Geográfico da MAPC ([email protected]), Matthew S. Lattanzi, Esq. pelo e-mail [email protected], Diretor de Planejamento e Desenvolvimento de Everett, e Cathy Draine, Diretora de Diversidade, Equidade e Inclusão de Everett, pelo e-mail [email protected].

SE ENVOLVA

Inscreva-se para receber atualizações do plano: 

Insira seu nome e e-mail para receber atualizações sobre planos e eventos. 

Próximos Eventos: 

Compartilharemos informações e recursos nos eventos comunitários já existentes e forums acessíveis a toda a população a fim de coletar ideias e sugestões dos residentes de Everett. Alguns desses eventos os quais visitaremos estão listados abaixo:

  • Event: Everett Youth Workers Network monthly meeting
    When: December 13, 2023

EVENTOS PASSADOS

  • Focus Group at La Comunidad Inc
    December 2, 2023 at La Comunidad

  • Everett Tree Lighting
    December 1, 2023, Everett Square

  • Everett Community Growers – Engagement Team Meeting
    Oct 10, 2023, virtual meeting

  • Eliot Family Resource Center’s Community Baby Shower
    Oct 3, 2023 at Eliot Family Resource Center

COMISSÃO DE CONSULTORIA

O processo de planejamento está sendo dirigido por uma comissão de representantes da cidade e da comunidade. Membros adicionais da comissão se unirão a este grupo futuramente, mas os membros atuais estão listados abaixo:

  • Eleanor Gayhart, Program Manager, Eliot Family Resource Center
  • Jay Monty, Director of Transportation and Mobility, City of Everett
  • Alexander Naumann, Principal, Keverian School
  • Jim Tarr, Planning Board Member, City of Everett
  • Laura Rosi, Chief Executive Officer, Housing Families
  • Dipendra Subedi, Board Member, Greater Boston Nepali Community (GBNC)

CRONOGRAMA

O processo de planejamento foi iniciado no verão de 2023 e espera-se que sua duração seja de um ano.

Verão de 2023
O projeto foi iniciado

Outono de 2023
Avaliação Abrangente das Necessidades Habitacionais e Estabelecimento de Objetivos

Inverno de 2023
Análise de Oportunidades e Restrições de Desenvolvimento, e Avaliação do Risco de Despejo 

Primavera de 2024
Desenvolvimento de Estratégias e da Possível Produção 

Verão de 2024
Plano finalizado e proposto à Secretaria Executiva de Moradia e Comunidades Habitáveis de Massachusetts (EOHLC por sua sigla em inglês)

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El Plan de Producción de Viviendas de Everett (HPP) (Español)

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El Plan de Producción de Viviendas de Everett (HPP) (Español)

Everett HPP Style-02

CHANGE LANGUAGE:

VISIÓN GENERAL

PARTICIPA

COMITÉ ASESOR

CRONOLOGÍA

English

VISIÓN GENERAL

El Plan de Producción de Viviendas de Everett (HPP) es un proceso basado en datos y en la comunidad para planificar el futuro de la vivienda en Everett. El plan proporcionará información sobre los tipos de viviendas que se necesitan en Everett, cómo apoyar a los residentes con sus metas y desafíos de vivienda y políticas locales a ser consideradas por la Ciudad. Un enfoque especial de este plan es prevenir el desplazamiento asegurando que las necesidades de los residentes de Everett sean satisfechas para que no necesiten buscar vivienda en otro lugar. La Ciudad ha contratado al Consejo de Planificación del Área Metropolitana (MAPC) para proporcionar asistencia técnica para completar el HPP. Juntos, la Ciudad, MAPC, un Comité Asesor y socios comunitarios trabajarán para establecer la visión y la dirección de la política de vivienda en Everett durante los próximos cinco años.

Everett HPP cumplirá con todos los requisitos de un Plan de Producción de Vivienda. A través de este proceso, trabajaremos para expandir y diversificar el stock de viviendas de Everett, al tiempo que aumentaremos la asequibilidad para las personas con una variedad de ingresos. La Ciudad utilizará este plan para crear conciencia sobre la necesidad de vivienda en la comunidad, conectarse y aprender de las poblaciones históricamente marginadas, avanzar enmiendas de zonificación e implementar otras estrategias para satisfacer la necesidad y la demanda de vivienda. A medida que se implementan las estrategias, se espera que las oportunidades de vivienda en Everett se amplíen y se reduzca el riesgo de desplazamiento. El plan también guiará a la Ciudad en cuanto a dónde dirigir los recursos para lograr estas metas.

¿Tiene alguna pregunta? ¿Quieres involucrarte? Comunícate con Alex Koppelman, Superior Regional de Vivienda y Planificador del Uso de Tierras en MAPC ([email protected]), Matthew S. Lattanzi, Esq. en [email protected], Director de Planificación y Desarrollo de Everett, y Cathy Draine, Directora de Diversidad, Equidad e Inclusión de Everett en [email protected].

PARTICIPA

Regístrese para recibir actualizaciones del plan 

Anote su nombre y dirección de correo electrónico para recibir actualizaciones sobre el plan y los eventos.

Upcoming Events

Compartiremos información y recursos en los eventos comunitarios existentes y foros de toda la ciudad para recopilar ideas y pensamientos de los residentes de Everett. Algunos de los eventos que visitaremos hasta ahora se enumeran a continuación:

  • Event: Everett Youth Workers Network monthly meeting
    When: December 13, 2023

EVENTOS PASADOS

  • Focus Group at La Comunidad Inc
    December 2, 2023 at     La Comunidad

  • Everett Tree Lighting
    December 1, 2023, Everett Square

  • Everett Community Growers – Engagement Team Meeting
    Oct 10, 2023, virtual meeting

  • Eliot Family Resource Center’s Community Baby Shower
    Oct 3, 2023 at Eliot Family Resource Center

COMITÉ ASESOR

El proceso de planificación está siendo dirigido por un comité de representantes de la ciudad y la comunidad. Más miembros del comité pueden unirse más tarde, pero los miembros actuales se enumeran a continuación:

  • Eleanor Gayhart, Program Manager, Eliot Family Resource Center
  • Jay Monty, Director of Transportation and Mobility, City of Everett
  • Alexander Naumann, Principal, Keverian School
  • Jim Tarr, Planning Board Member, City of Everett
  • Laura Rosi, Chief Executive Officer, Housing Families
  • Dipendra Subedi, Board Member, Greater Boston Nepali Community (GBNC)

CRONOLOGÍA

El proceso de planificación comenzó en el verano de 2023 y se espera que dure un año.

Verano 2023
Se inicia el proyecto

Otoño de 2023
Evaluación integral de las necesidades de vivienda y establecimiento de metas

Invierno 2023
Análisis de Restricciones de Desarrollo y Oportunidades y Evaluación de Riesgos de Desplazamiento

Primavera 2024
Desarrollo de estrategias y producción entregable

Verano 2024
Plan finalizado y presentado a la Oficina Ejecutiva de Vivienda y Comunidades Habitables de Massachusetts (EOHLC)

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Greater Boston Climate Action Plan

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Greater Boston Climate Action Plan

An Effort Funded by the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG)

About the Project

Metropolitan Statistical Area

Justice40 and Enviro Justice

Ways to Get Involved

Past Events

The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) and partners are developing a region-wide Climate Action Plan (CAP) under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) program. Additional support for the plan is provided by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and the Barr Foundation. 

The regional plan encompasses 167 communities within Metro Boston, including parts of southern New Hampshire, and centers the priorities and ideas of Massachusetts’ Environmental Justice communities and federally designated Justice40 communities. 

MAPC received financial support from the EPA for this project under an Assistance Agreement. 

Greater Boston Climate Action logo. Green text says, "Greater Boston", and blue text says, "Climate Action Plan." To the right of the text is an image of a yellow sun.
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Updates

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Upcoming Events

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About the Greater Boston Climate Action Plan (GBCAP)

Partners across the Metro Boston region are working together to develop a regional roadmap to rapidly drive down greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, slow the impacts of climate change, and realize near-term community benefits. Benefits of reducing carbon pollution across multiple sectors include: 

  • Improvements to air quality and public health; 
  • Increase of local, clean energy jobs;  
  • Reduction and stabilization of energy costs; and 
  • Improvements to public transportation and walkability. 

This multi-year planning process includes three phases of work 1) Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP) that establishes a near-term plan for action by 2030, 2) Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP) that covers a broader range of sectors, and 3) a Status Report in 2027 on progress made towards implementation.   

In March 2024, MAPC submitted the Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP) to the EPA. The PCAP is Greater Boston’s near-term plan to address the urgent challenge of climate change by rapidly driving down greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The PCAP includes: 

  • A region-wide GHG Inventory.  
  • Eleven Priority GHG Reduction Measures across the Buildings, Transportation, Electricity Generation, and Waste sectors. 
  • An analysis of benefits to low-income and disadvantaged communities (LIDAC).
Read the Climate Action Plan

Read the blog post overview of the near-term Climate Action Plan.

We are currently working on the comprehensive Greater Boston Climate Action Plan (GBCAP) which will be completed by December 2025. This plan will include: 

  • An updated regional GHG inventory for 2022 and reduction targets for 2030 and 2050 
  • Additional GHG emissions reduction measures including those in the Agriculture and Natural Lands and the Industry and Manufacturing sectors. 
  • A regional workforce development analysis  

Over the year, MAPC and partners will host a variety of opportunities for stakeholders to provide meaningful input and feedback on measures and analysis included in the plan.  

The EPA is also providing funding to the State of Massachusetts and State of New Hampshire to develop state-wide climate action plans on similar timelines. We will coordinate closely with state entities and neighboring metro-regions on these efforts. 

Access the Benefits Beyond Emissions Reductions Flyer
Benefícios Além da Redução de Emissões
Beneficios más allá de la reducción de emisiones
减排的附加效益
Access the Climate Change in Greater Boston Flyer
Mudança Climática na Grande Boston
El cambio climático en el Área Metropolitana de Boston
大波士顿地区的气候变化
Access the Greater Boston Climate Action Plan Flyer
Plano de Ação Climática da Grande Boston
Plan de Acción Climática del Área Metropolitana de Boston
大波士顿气候行动计划

What is a Metropolitan Statistical Area?

A Metropolitan Statistical Area, or MSA, is a federal government designation of a regional geography with a dense population center and characterized by strong social and economic ties throughout the region.

The Boston MSA is comprised of 168 municipalities and represents 4.7 million residents across Eastern Massachusetts and parts of Southern New Hampshire.

Regional climate planning enables collaborative problem solving to address shared challenges and improve regional infrastructure.  

A blue map of the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) in the Greater Boston area. All of the communities are written in black text on the blue map.
Map of the Boston Metropolitan Statistical Area. Map created by Weston & Sampson.

Justice40 and Environmental Justice

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts defines Environmental Justice as “the principle that all people have a right to be protected from environmental hazards and to live in and enjoy a clean and healthful environment. Environmental justice is the equal protection and meaningful involvement of all people with respect to development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies and the equitable distribution of environmental benefits”. In Massachusetts, Environmental Justice Communities are designated based on a neighborhood’s 1) household median income, 2) percentage of residents who are racial minorities, and 3) percentage of households who experience English language isolation.  

In 2021, the federal government made a commitment that 40% of the overall benefits of federal investment flow to socio-economically disadvantaged communities that are also overburdened by environmental pollution. These federally designated communities are known as “Justice40” and have some overlap with Massachusetts’s EJ Community designation. As a Federally funded project, our regional Climate Action Plan aims to center and prioritize Justice40 and EJ communities within the planning process, development of GHG reduction strategies, and future implementation of the plan.  

In addition to establishing a Justice40 Advisory group to help guide the development of the PCAP and CCAP, the project team will assess each proposed GHG reduction strategy based on the benefits to low-income and disadvantaged communities (LIDAC).  

Federally Designated Disadvantaged Communities

A black outlined map of greater Boston with areas in green showing federally designated disadvantaged communities.
A black outlined map of greater Boston with areas in green showing federally designated disadvantaged communities.

Ways to Get Involved

  • We need your input on the priorities within the plan to ensure they reflect community needs and ideas from across the region. Complete our survey! 
  • MAPC is currently working with partners across the region including community-based organizations and regional planning agencies to hold opportunities for engagement. Stay tuned for more information! To get updates on these events and our newsletter, subscribe to the project’s email list.

Contact us at [email protected] for more information, if you have questions, and/or to get involved in the region’s Climate Action Plan. 

Committees and Advisory Groups  

MAPC is collaborating closely with partners across the region to develop the plan.  

Regional Planning Agency (RPA) Steering Committee: Comprised of the regional planning agencies/commissions within the MSA, this committee will help guide the planning process and lead stakeholder engagement activities within each RPA region. Members include: Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC), Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC), Northern Middlesex Council of Governments (NMCOG), Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission (SNPC), Rockingham Planning Commission (RPC), and Nashua Regional Planning Commission (NRPC).  

Municipal Advisory Group: Comprised of 29 municipal staff and representatives, this group provides key input and feedback during key milestones of the PCAP and CCAP. Members include: Acton, Arlington, Ashland, Boston*, Bridgewater, Brockton*, Cambridge, Chelsea*, Concord, Framingham, Gloucester*, Hudson, Lexington, Lawrence*, Lowell*, Melrose, Methuen*, Natick, Newbury, North Andover, Norwood, Plymouth, Reading, Revere*, Salem*, Weston, Winchester, MA, Derry and Nashua*, NH.

* Denotes designated Justice40 community.   

Justice40 Advisory Group: Comprised of 25 community-based organizations and non-profits, this group provides key input and feedback during key milestones of the PCAP and CCAP. Members include: Action for Boston Community Development, Inc., Action, Inc., All In Energy, Asian Community Development Corporation, Authentic Caribbean Foundation, Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, Citizens Inn, Conservation Law Foundation, Boston Climate Action Network, Emerald Cities Collaborative, Granite State Organizing Project, Groundwork Somerville, Grow Nashua, Healthcare without Harm, Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition, Merrimack River Watershed Council, Neighborhood of Affordable Housing, Inc., New England United 4 Justice, Quincy Asian Resources, Roxbury Community College Foundation, The Latino Support Network, Town Green, Transit Matters, and Voices of the Community, and one Indigenous Land and Water Conservationist and Environmental Activist.

Past Events

Waste and Materials Management Workshop | November 18, 2024
MAPC hosted an interactive, virtual workshop to talk with stakeholders about reducing GHG emissions from Waste and Materials Management sector.

This event included remarks from State Representative Michelle Ciccolo and Department of Environmental Protection (MA DEP) Kathi Mirza. 

Presentation Slides

Waste and Materials Workshop | October 24, 2024
MAPC hosted an interactive, in-person workshop to talk with stakeholders about reducing GHG emissions from Waste and Materials Management sector.

This event included remarks from State Representative Michelle Ciccolo, Lexington’s Sustainability Committee Chair Cindy Arens, and Department of Environmental Protection (MA DEP) Kathi Mirza.  

Presentation Slides
Planning for a Circular Economy Presentation Slides – Representative Ciccolo
Lexington’s Zero Waste Journey Presentation Slides – Cindy Arens
Reducing Waste in MA: MassDEP Programs, Policies, and Initiatives Presentation Slides – Kathi Mirza

Agriculture and Natural Lands Workshop | October 23, 2024
MAPC hosted an interactive, virtual workshop to talk with stakeholders about reducing GHG emissions from Agricultural and Natural Lands sector.

Presentation Slides

Greater Boston Climate Action Plan Listening Session |  January 24 and 25, 2024 
MAPC hosted two virtual listening sessions on the Priority Climate Action Plan. During these meetings participants provided input on the top GHG reduction measures included in the plan.  

Presentation Slides

Greater Boston Climate Action Plan Listening Session | November 14, 2023
MAPC hosted the first listening session on the Greater Boston Climate Action Plan, funded by EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. The session included an overview of the planning process and small break-out rooms for discussion.

Presentation Slides

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Racial Equity Advancement & Collaborative Hub

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Racial Equity Advancement & Collaborative Hub (REACH) 

Racial Equity Advancement & Collaborative Hub
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MAPC >> Resources >> Project

The murder of George Floyd in 2020 and the summer of unrest put racial inequity at the forefront of American discourse. But in the three years since those events, racial inequity still exists, and yet, as a society, we are paying less and less attention to it. However, the urgency to address racial inequity remains undiminished.

It is in this reality that MAPC introduced the Racial Equity Advancement & Collaborative Hub (REACH). REACH was a 2024 training and peer learning initiative that supported municipal government efforts to create inclusive and equitable municipal environments and actions.

MAPC led the administration and oversight of the program. The Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE), a nationally recognized expert in racial equity strategies and solutions, designed the curriculum and managed the trainings. Participants had access to training, peer learning, and tools to better prepare municipal teams to address racial disparities within their communities effectively and respectfully.

For more information about the REACH program, please contact Raúl González at RGonzá[email protected]. 

Go to:

Program Overview

REACH Communities

Monthly Sessions Outline

Post-Session Summaries

REACH Archive

Program Overview

The REACH program was an initiative designed to promote racial equity within municipal operations through a series of eight in-person, participatory workshops.

These workshops were scheduled on the second Wednesday of each month, from February 14, 2024 to December 11, 2024, and were held at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, from 9 AM to 3 PM. GARE led six of these workshops, complemented by two additional sessions facilitated by MAPC.

The program’s objectives included fostering enhanced dialogue on equity, informing policy reform, and supporting professional development to dismantle systemic racial disparities within Massachusetts municipalities. 

REACH Communities

The REACH program was proud to collaborate with a cohort of eleven municipalities committed to the program:

 

Acton  •  Arlington  •  Framingham  •  Hamilton •  Hudson  •  Lowell •  Lynn 

Malden  •  Milton  •  Natick  •  Salem 

The REACH program is committed to creating inclusive and equitable communities through sustained collaboration, support, and shared purpose among participating municipalities. 

Monthly Sessions Outline

February 14, 2024: Advancing Racial Equity and the Role of Government. March 13, 2024: Communicating Racial Equity. April 10, 2024: Understanding and Applying GARE's Racial Equity Tool. May 8, 2024: Understanding and Applying the Racial Equity Tool II June 12, 2024: Applying the Racial Equity Tool III & Leading with Racial Equity. July 10, 2024: Massachusetts Racial Equity Funding Opportunities and Technical Assistance. September 11, 2024: Success Stories in the Commonwealth - Projects, Policies, and Programs. October 9, 2024: Principles and Practices of Equitable Development in Building Inclusive Communities. December 11, 2024: Closing Event and Celebration of Achievements.

Timeline Image Description: February 14, 2024: Advancing Racial Equity and the Role of Government. March 13, 2024: Communicating Racial Equity. April 10, 2024: Understanding and Applying GARE’s Racial Equity Tool. May 8, 2024: Understanding and Applying the Racial Equity Tool II June 12, 2024: Applying the Racial Equity Tool III & Leading with Racial Equity. July 10, 2024: Massachusetts Racial Equity Funding Opportunities and Technical Assistance. September 11, 2024: Success Stories in the Commonwealth – Projects, Policies, and Programs. October 9, 2024: Principles and Practices of Equitable Development in Building Inclusive Communities. December 11, 2024: Closing Event and Celebration of Achievements. 

Session Details

Post-Session Summaries

Jump to:

February 14, 2024 | March 13, 2024 | April 10, 2024 | May 8, 2024 | June 12, 2024 | July 10, 2024 |
September 11, 2024 |  October 9, 2024 | December 11, 2024 

 

February 14, 2024

MAPC kicked off the Racial Equity Advancement & Collaborative Hub (REACH) program on February 14 at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (FRBB) with a blend of foundational training, collaborative discussions, and a special focus on the historical context of racial inequities.
The day began with a warm welcome and introductions from FRBB and MAPC leadership. Participants met with the team from the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE), who introduced their framework and provided a historical perspective on the role of government in perpetuating racial disparities.
Jennifer Raitt, Executive Director of the Northern Middlesex Council of Government, discussed “Moving from Understanding the Legacy of Planning and Race to Taking Municipal Action,” where she highlighted the historical intersection of urban planning and racial segregation.
A room with people sitting in chairs at tables, facing the front of the room where someone is speaking behind a podium.

REACH February 14, 2024 session
Photo Credit: Raúl González, MAPC

March 13, 2024

Elevating Racial Equity Conversations: Insights from Our Recent Training Session 

This training session, led by the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE), focused on enhancing our communication skills around racial equity. Key discussions included the deeper meaning and actions behind Land Acknowledgements, introducing the transformative Affirm, Counter, Transform (ACT) Principle for impactful racial equity conversations, and sharing municipal challenges and successes in integrating racial equity principles. 

Participants also had the chance to share their own experiences and challenges related to integrating racial equity into their municipal communications strategies. This exchange of stories and strategies underscored the value of a community of practice. 

March 13, 2024 REACH session. Three individuals stand at the front of the room holding a banner and to their left is a powerpoint presentation on a large screen.

REACH March 13, 2024 session
Photo Credit: Raúl González, MAPC

April 10, 2024

Utilizing the Racial Equity Tool I: Key Takeaways from This Training Session 

The REACH teams participated in a workshop led by expert trainers from the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) that provided a critical tool for participants to hone their narrative-building capabilities that emphasize the importance of racial equity in our municipalities. This session focused on the initial steps of utilizing the Racial Equity Toolkit (RET), an essential framework for applying a racial equity lens to municipal decision-making processes. 

During this session participants engaged deeply with the first three steps of the RET, which are important in setting the groundwork for creating equitable municipal policies and practices. 

Key Aspects Covered in the Session: 

  • Desired Results: We discussed how to clearly define community-level conditions of well-being that our policies aim to achieve. This step is crucial as it sets the direction for the specific outcomes we hope to realize through our efforts. 
  • Community Indicators: Participants learned how to identify measurable indicators that help quantify the achievement of these desired results. Emphasis was placed on choosing indicators that can be disaggregated by race or proxies for race, such as geographical data, ensuring that the impacts of policies are understood across different racial groups. 
  • Data Collection and Analysis: We explored effective methods for gathering and analyzing data to uncover existing racial inequities and understand the root causes behind them. This step is foundational in ensuring that our actions are informed by solid evidence and can effectively address the specific needs of communities of color. 

The training also highlighted the importance of setting clear goals and engaging in decision-making processes that maximize benefits and minimize burdens for people and communities of color. Additionally, we discussed mechanisms for successful implementation, evaluation, and accountability of impact, which are essential for the sustainability of racial equity efforts. 

A room full of people seated in chairs facing the front of the room where someone is speaking. On a projector screen behind the speaker is black text that says "Racial Equity Tool (RET)" on a neon green background.

REACH April 10, 2024 session
Photo Credit: Kimberlee Archie, GARE 

May 8, 2024

Utilizing the Racial Equity Tool II: Perspectives from This Session 

The REACH program held a significant training session on May 8th, aimed at enhancing our proficiency in discussing racial equity effectively. This workshop provided a platform for participants to sharpen their narrative-building skills, which are crucial in highlighting the importance of racial equity within our municipalities. 

During the session, we focused on Steps 4 to 6 of the Racial Equity Toolkit (RET), which is pivotal in identifying and addressing the root causes of racial inequities. Here’s a brief overview of what we covered: 

  • Root Cause Analysis: Participants engaged in identifying the underlying causes of observed racial disparities within their municipalities. This involved examining various levels of influence, from individual and institutional behaviors to structural barriers that perpetuate inequality. 
  • Strategies for Racial Equity: We discussed comprehensive strategies to advance racial equity and mitigate any potential unintended consequences of new policies or programs. Participants brainstormed actions that could be implemented to alleviate the root causes of racial disparities, ensuring that their interventions are both impactful and feasible. 
  • Organizational Outcomes: The session also helped clarify expected outcomes within participants’ organizations, focusing on the changes they aim to bring about through their equity-focused initiatives. 
  • Unintended Consequences: A significant part of the discussion revolved around anticipating and planning for unintended consequences of proposed changes. This ensures that strategies not only address current issues but also prevent new problems from arising. 
  • Performance Measures: We explored effective measures to assess the success of implemented strategies. These performance indicators are designed to communicate the effectiveness of actions clearly and compellingly, ensuring they resonate with a broad audience and provide meaningful data to guide future efforts. 

We discussed how to develop implementation plans that are realistic, well-resourced, and supported by both internal stakeholders and the broader community. This includes setting up accountability mechanisms to track progress and adjust strategies as needed. 

As we reflect on the valuable insights gained from this training, we are reminded of the critical role that effective communication and strategic planning play in advancing racial equity. The skills and knowledge imparted during the session are not just tools for immediate application but are essential for catalyzing long-term change within our municipalities. 

We are inspired by the commitment shown by all participants and look forward to seeing the positive impacts of their continued efforts. Together, we are moving closer to realizing our shared goal of a more just and equitable society. 

A room of people standing around tables and chairs, facing someone speaking into a microphone.

REACH May 8, 2024 session 
Photo Credit: Raúl González, MAPC 

June 12, 2024

Applying the Racial Equity Tool III & Leading with Racial Equity 

This session built upon prior discussions of the Racial Equity Toolkit (RET), emphasizing leadership roles in fostering racial equity within municipalities. Participants engaged in case studies, with municipal leaders showcasing equity strategies and their implementation processes. The session aimed to sharpen leadership competencies such as racial self-awareness and building supportive organizational cultures for racial equity. Participants also reviewed key leadership competencies for driving systemic change, including accountability mechanisms and sustaining a racial equity lens in decision-making. 

REACH June 2024 session. A room full of people standing and interacting with each other.

REACH June 12, 2024 session 
Photo Credit: Raúl González, MAPC 

July 10, 2024

Massachusetts Racial Equity Funding Opportunities and Technical Assistance 

In July, the session highlighted key funding sources available for racial equity initiatives across municipalities, ranging from state grants to philanthropic opportunities. Attendees explored strategies for securing and sustaining funding for equity-driven projects, such as staffing, community engagement, and data analysis. Through panel discussions, municipalities shared successful models of restructuring funding processes to integrate racial equity principles. A hands-on workshop provided steps for securing funding to support long-term equity initiatives. 

REACH July 2024 session. A room full of people sitting in chairs at tables facing the front of the room where three panelists sit behind a long table speaking.

REACH July 10, 2024 session 
Photo Credit: Raúl González, MAPC 

September 11, 2024

Success Stories in the Commonwealth – Projects, Policies, and Programs 

The September session brought forward inspiring case studies of successful racial equity projects across Massachusetts. Presenters highlighted challenges and best practices for implementing policies aimed at reducing racial disparities. Attendees participated in interactive discussions, sharing their own experiences and examining how lessons learned could advance racial equity goals in their communities. Breakout sessions facilitated deeper dives into leadership engagement, community collaboration, and resource generation. 

REACH September 11, 2024 session 
No photos

October 9, 2024

Principles and Practices of Equitable Development in Building Inclusive Communities 

October’s session centered on equitable development, focusing on creating inclusive communities through urban planning and policy-making that prioritizes marginalized groups. The session provided actionable strategies for incorporating equity into municipal projects, such as affordable housing and transportation access. Discussions included how to operationalize racial equity by building leadership accountability, fostering cultural transformation, and using racial equity tools to guide development initiatives. 

REACH October 2024 session. A room full of people standing in the back area of the room talking to each other. Some others are milling about towards the front of the room where there is a large screen with information projected on it.

REACH October 9, 2024 session 
Photo Credit: Raúl González, MAPC 

December 11, 2024

Reflecting, Celebrating, and Sustaining Racial Equity Work 

The final REACH session brought participants together to reflect on their journey, celebrate achievements, and plan for sustaining racial equity efforts in their communities. The session recapped key insights from previous workshops and highlighted success stories shared by municipalities. Participants engaged in group discussions and activities to identify next steps for applying the Racial Equity Toolkit (RET), fostering accountability, and embedding equity principles into their organizational cultures. A collaborative exercise helped teams outline strategies for maintaining momentum and addressing potential challenges in advancing racial equity beyond the program. 

REACH December 2024 session. Many people siting and standing together for a group photo, facing the front of the room smiling. Behind them is a large screen with an abstract design on it, and the word, "REACH".

REACH December 11, 2024 session 
Photo Credit: GARE

REACH Archive

2023 Application Information

Watch the Informational Session

Application Informational Document

2023 Application (closed)

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Everett Housing Production Plan

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Everett Housing Production Plan

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Overview

We Need Your Input

Advisory Committee

Timeline

Resources

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Overview

The Everett Housing Production Plan (HPP) is a community and data-driven process to plan for the future of housing in Everett. The plan will provide information about the types of homes needed in Everett, how to support residents with their housing goals and challenges, and local policies for the City to consider. A special focus of this plan is to prevent displacement by ensuring Everett residents’ needs are met so they do not need to look elsewhere for housing. The City has hired the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) to provide technical assistance to complete the HPP. Together, the City, MAPC, an Advisory Committee, and community partners will work to set the vision and direction of housing policy in Everett for the next five years.

The Everett HPP will meet all the requirements of a Housing Production Plan. Through this process, we will work to expand and diversify Everett’s housing stock while also increasing affordability for people at a range of incomes. The City will use this plan to raise awareness of housing need in the community, connect with and learn from historically marginalized populations, advance zoning amendments, and implement other strategies to meet housing need and demand. As strategies are implemented, it is expected that housing opportunity in Everett will be both expanded, and the risk of displacement will be reduced. The plan will also guide the City as to where to direct resources to accomplish these goals.

Have questions? Want to get involved? Contact Gloria Huangpu, Community Engagement Planner II / Coordinator, Technical Assistance Program (TAP) at MAPC ([email protected]), Matthew S. Lattanzi, Esq. at [email protected], Everett Director of Planning and Development, and Cathy Draine, Everett Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at [email protected].

Everett Housing Production Plan

Although the public comment period has concluded, you can still access and read the draft plan documents below.

Read and Download the Draft Plan
Read and Download the Executive Summary

Past events

2024

CHA Community Health Advisory Council Meeting | CHA Malden Care Center May 2, 2024 

Canciones y Comida | Everett Parks Department
May 4, 2024

Advisory Committee meeting #5
April 23, 2024

 Advisory Committee meeting #4
March 11, 2024

Focus Group | Everett Haitian Community Center
February 24, 2024

Focus Group | St Therese
February 9, 2024

Advisory Committee meeting #3
January 29, 2024 

2023

Bread of Life Tabling | Lafayette School
December 14, 2023

 Everett Youth Workers Network | Eliot Family Resource Center
December 13, 2023

Focus Group | La Comunidad Inc
December 2, 2023

Everett Tree Lighting | Everett Square
December 1, 2023

Advisory Committee meeting #2
November 13, 2023

Advisory Committee meeting #1
October 11, 2023

Everett Community Growers – Engagement Team Meeting | Virtual Meeting
October 10, 2023

Community Baby Shower | Eliot Family Resource Center
October 3, 2023

Community Baber Shower | Eliot Family Resource Center)
April 17, 2023

Advisory Committee

The planning process is being led by a committee of city and community representatives. More committee members may join later, but the current members are listed below:

  • Eleanor Gayhart, Program Manager, Eliot Family Resource Center
  • Jay Monty, Director of Transportation and Mobility, City of Everett
  • Alexander Naumann, Principal, Keverian School
  • Jim Tarr, Planning Board Member, City of Everett
  • Laura Rosi, Chief Executive Officer, Housing Families
  • Dipendra Subedi, Board Member, Greater Boston Nepali Community (GBNC)
  • Myrlande DesRosiers, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Everett Haitian Community Center (EHCC)  
  • Nicole Fina, Civic Engagement and Advocacy Manager, Everett Community Growers 

Timeline

The planning process began in the summer of 2023 and is expected to take one year.

Summer 2023
Project starts up

Fall 2023
Comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment and Goal Setting

Winter 2023
Development Constraints and Opportunity Analysis, and Displacement Risk Assessment

Spring 2024
Strategy Development and Deliverable Production

Summer 2024
Plan finalized and submitted to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC)

Resources

Housing Needs Assessment
Below you will find the initial findings of the project Housing Need and Demand Assessment.

English
Arabic
Nepali
Portuguese
Spanish
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Green Stormwater Infrastructure Siting Tool 

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Green Stormwater Infrastructure

Siting Tool 

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Green Stormwater Infrastructure Siting Tool 
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MAPC >> Resources >> Project

The Green Stormwater Infrastructure Siting Tool is on an online, interactive spatial tool developed by MAPC to support Greater Boston municipalities in equity-centered siting of Green Stormwater Infrastructure. The online tool aims to help communities meet MS4 (municipal separate storm sewer system) requirements and reduce stormwater pollution while also considering the environmental, economic, and social benefits of green stormwater infrastructure and other climate resilience solutions.   

The tool enables users to select a set of unique criteria for prioritizing where to best site green infrastructure in their municipality to improve water quality, reduce stormwater flooding, and/or provide additional benefits to communities. Users can filter potential sites based on criteria related to the following categories: land use and ownership, land cover characteristics, equity considerations, proximity to the drainage network, and overlap with sensitive land.  Based on those criteria, the tool identifies potential sites for implementing Green Infrastructure. Users can add their own local data to better contextualize results. 

Accompanying the tool is a field survey that allows municipal staff to take the data exported from the tool to conduct in-depth, on-site analysis about siting a Green Infrastructure project.  The questions collect information about existing infrastructure and visible conditions of the site. 

The project was developed in close partnership with a working group of municipal staff from the towns of Winchester, Reading, Natick, Norwood, and Franklin, with advisory groups from local watershed organizations as well as the Stormwater Innovation Center in Rhode Island.  

Questions? Contact [email protected] 

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Lex250 Monument

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Lex250 Monument
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MAPC >> Resources >> Project

Lex250 Monument

In preparation for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Town of Lexington invites community members to reflect on ways to honor and memorialize this history. Preparing for the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington, the Lex250 Commission is working with the Metropolitan Area Planning Council to commission a public commemorative art piece. In the early hours of April 19, 1775, the Battle of Lexington is remembered as the site of the first shot of the Revolutionary War.

In this process, Lex250 Commission invites community members and artists to reflect on the significance of this specific history. The proposed monument location is in Belfry Hill, south of the historic Lexington Battle Green.

As of July 2023, MAPC began working with Lex250 Commission and the Town of Lexington to broaden regional stakeholder engagement. Throughout the project, MAPC will support the development of a call for artists, including developing project advisors and technical advisors and the selection of monument concept by April 2024.

This involvement stands on the foundations of MAPC’s prior projects and experience from the City of Lynn and Salem and adapting that process to the specific needs and considerations related to commemorative public artwork, drawing on lessons from the Public Art/Public Memory Discussion Series of 2020.

If you are interested in this topic and want to engage with the process, please contact MAPC’s Regional Arts and Culture Planner II, Abbey Judd at [email protected].

 

More from Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture Main Page

Salem Charlotte Forten Memorial

Regional Tourism Project

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Want to stay up-to-date on this project’s news and events? Sign up at the button below.

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Semifinalist Artists Present Concepts for Monument

Thirty-five artists responded to the Call for Artists released in December, and applicants included international artists and artists located throughout the county. Selection panelists evaluated artists and artist teams based on their submission of qualifications, past work, and written responses to questions in the Call for Artists.  

From the applicant pool, four artist teams developed concepts for the Lex250 monument to honor the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington to present on March 13, 2024.

Review the selected artist and artist teams and their concept presentations below.

Public Monument Concept Presentation

Lex250 Commission invites Lexington community members to review the recording (to the right) of the hybrid community presentation of the artists’ concept proposals on Wednesday, March 13 at 5:30 p.m. at the Estabrook Hall, lower level of the Cary Building. Community members can submit questions to artists following the artists’ presentations using the Community Feedback Form (below).

Share Your Feedback!

Looking to watch the presentation of a specific artist or artist team? Please find the recording time stamps below.

Mark Aeling
07:57
Miriam Gusevich
18:56
Zaq Landsberg and Thomas Robinson
29:15

Jonathan Russel and Saori Ide
40:12

Artist Q&A
51:35
Call for Artist – Now Closed
Read the Call for Artist here

Watch the January 3, 2024 Artist Q&A Meeting Recording:

Access the Meeting Slides
January 3, 2024 Artist Q&A Resources

Submitted Prior to January 7, 2024.

Past Meetings

Stakeholder Informational Meeting Recording

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Stakeholder Informational Meeting Slideshow

Partners

Town of Lexington

Lex250 Commission

Project Advisors

Dawn E McKenna Kamala Raj
Deepika Sawhney Kathryn Jacob
Denise Moehring Matthew Siegal
Glenn Parker Patricia Elen Costello
Heather Hartshorn Richard Canale
Howard Wolk Robert Bellinger
Jessie Steigerwald Rosemary Trowbridge
Jianing (Jolene) Cai

 

Join the Process

Stay tuned for public artist concept presentations this spring.

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Making it Public

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MAPC >> Resources >> Project

Making It Public

Making It Public for Massachusetts municipalities is a training program inspired by Forecast Public Art (FPA) and co-designed by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council’s (MAPC) Arts and Culture Department and The New England Foundation for the Arts’ (NEFA) Public Arts Team. 

The curriculum incorporates the use of grant agreements as defined in Section 2 of MGL Chapter 30B and trains municipalities in practices to commission public art that are in alignment with the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability in public procurement.

Learn About Previous Cohorts

Important 2025 Dates

Information Session:
September 11, 2024 | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Register

Application Deadline:
September 30, 2024, 11:59 PM ET
Apply Online

More info can be found below and on the NEFA website.

Questions?
Please contact Kim Szeto, Program Director, Public Art at NEFA ([email protected]) or Annis Sengupta, Director, Arts & Culture at Metropolitan Area Planning Council ([email protected]).

The Opportunity

Making it Public will cover practical and tactical subject matters for administrators at all stages of their career facilitating public art, such as stakeholder considerations, community engagement, preparing a call-for-artists, equitable selection processes, contracting, and more. Sessions include guest public art professionals, adding a depth of knowledge about the field of public art, the profession, and its contemporary issues. 

Through Making it Public and funding artists through municipalities, NEFA aims to foster a community of practice that is inspiring more vibrant and just public spaces and culture through public artmaking across MA. 

To learn more about NEFA’s vision and values for public art, visit NEFA’s website. 

A parallel workshop series geared towards MA artists will also be offered simultaneously by NEFA and FPA, equipping artists in the region to be better prepared at responding to calls for temporary public art projects.

2025 Cohort

This cohort will:

  • Participate in Making it Public, a free biweekly workshop series with 6 training sessions over 11 weeks (January-April 2025) facilitated by MAPC designed to support Massachusetts municipal staff in facilitating more inclusive and equitable processes for administering a Call for Temporary Public Art.
     
  • Apply the learnings from the workshop series to release a Call for Temporary Public Art in 2025. 
     
  • Receive a $15,000 grant from NEFA to fund artists selected through a Call for Temporary Public Art in 2025.  
  • Additional technical assistance from NEFA and MAPC will also be available.

For more information: https://www.nefa.org/MakingItPublic  

2024 Cohort

Towns and Cities in the Cohort:
Belchertown, Chelmsford, Clinton, Everett, Montague, Peabody, Somerville, and Southbridge

 

2022 Cohort

Towns and Cities in the Cohort:
Amherst, Attleboro, Fitchburg, Lowell, Lynn, Natick, New Bedford, Salem, and Watertown

More Information on the 2022 Cohort

2023 Cohort

Towns and Cities in the Cohort:
Acton, Brockton, Chelmsford, Chelsea, Concord, Devens, Erving, Greenfield, Holyoke, Middleborough, and Revere

More Information on the 2023 Cohort

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Regional Trails Creative Placemaking Strategy

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Regional Trails Creative Placemaking Strategy
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MAPC >> Resources >> Project

Regional Trails Creative Placemaking Strategy

This project will generate a creative placemaking strategy to help subregions and individual municipalities strengthen connections between regional trails and local commercial areas and to enhance a sense of representation and belonging for the diverse communities living in these subregions.  

Process

The Metropolitan Area Planning Council’s (MAPC) Arts & Culture and Transportation Departments will work with the Minuteman Advisory Group on Interlocal Coordination (MAGIC) and MetroWest Regional Collaborative (MWRC) subregions, as well as with the Town of Acton and the Town of Holliston to complete the Regional Trails Creative Placemaking Strategy project from May 2023 – August 2024. 

Funding

The project is funded through Barr Foundation support for MAPC’s Arts and Culture Department, the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Unified Planning Work Program, and the MAGIC and MetroWest subregional funds. In addition, the Town of Acton and the Town of Holliston will contribute in-kind contributions of staff time to support the work.
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MAPC’s Role

MAPC’s role is to assess the opportunity for creative placemaking interventions in the MAGIC and MetroWest subregions through an existing conditions analysis. In addition, MAPC will advise the formation of Creative Placemaking Advisory Groups in Acton and Holliston and provide technical assistance and funding to the participating municipalities to commission artists and creatives. In addition, MAPC will support the process of commissioning creative works that activate connection areas between trail access points and local commercial areas as a demonstration of the potential of creative placemaking to enhance the Landline Regional Trail Network as a local and regional resource.  In addition to other project deliverables, MAPC staff will develop the curriculum for and facilitate a one-day Creative Placemaking Training Workshop inviting representatives from the two municipalities, as well as representatives from both the MAGIC and MetroWest subregional cohorts.    

For more information, please contact Archana Menon, MAPC Arts and Culture Fellow at [email protected].

Importance

Creative placemaking is a community-led process that brings artists into community development and planning projects in order to connect people and places in new and innovative ways, while still honoring the history and distinctiveness of the place. This approach to placemaking aims to activate underutilized spaces, enhance community engagement, and promote economic development in surrounding areas.  

Creative placemaking on trails can also be a powerful tool for building a welcoming and inclusive community. It leverages a community’s arts and cultural assets to encourage social interaction and engage diverse communities, foster a sense of pride and ownership for one’s community and create a sense of place. It can increase access and equity by addressing barriers that may prevent certain community members from using the space, thereby collaboratively shaping a place’s physical and social character.  

The MAPC Regional Trails Creative Placemaking Strategy will, therefore, help the participating municipalities achieve the following goals, thereby advancing a shared vision for creating vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods:   

Strengthen strategic connections between trails and downtown commercial centers to support local small businesses and economic vitality.

Convene a wide cross section of stakeholders to form advisory groups who will steward arts, culture and creative placemaking efforts in their communities.

Promote trails as equitable public spaces that foster connections and a sense of belonging among diverse groups of people in our communities.

Connect arts and culture to larger community revitalization efforts.
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Identify areas along the trail that need inclusive signage and wayfinding initiatives.

Meet Selected Mural Artist Caoin O’Durgy

Caoin O’Durgy, a talented artist based in Somerville, MA, was selected to create vibrant murals that will connect Holliston Downtown and the Rail Trail.

This project is part of the larger Regional Trails Creative Placemaking Strategy, an initiative led by MAPC’s Arts & Culture Department to enhance community engagement and connectivity across the region through public art and creative placemaking. The funding for this mural project has been generously provided by MAPC. 

Caoin, leading his team, The Good Boy Collective—a trans-led group of artists dedicated to fostering support and collaboration within the artistic community—brings a unique illustrative style that beautifully captures the essence of Holliston’s past, present, and future.

His mural design features a pavilion symbolizing Holliston’s history, with a trail weaving through the town’s architecture and creating a path through time. Portals found in doorways physically connect different eras, inviting viewers to reflect on the town’s rich heritage. The mural also includes dynamic 3D hanging acrylic pieces that depict how the rail-trail might be traveled in different periods, with some figures designed to move in the wind. 

In addition to the main mural, Caoin has designed murals for two electric boxes. The box at Green St. represents Holliston’s contemporary community, with figures walking towards downtown, their attire reflecting various historical periods beyond the colonial era. The box at Hollis St. symbolizes Holliston’s future, featuring futuristic elements juxtaposed with the town’s timeless architecture. 

Caoin’s work, characterized by a whimsical, children’s book-inspired style and a color-blind friendly palette, is designed to be inclusive and engaging for all community members.

His design aims to spark curiosity, encourage exploration of downtown Holliston, and foster a deeper sense of connection among viewers. 

MAPC and the Town of Holliston are excited to see Caoin’s vision come to life as part of the Regional Trails Creative Placemaking Strategy and look forward to sharing more updates as the project progresses.

Murals

Artist Caoin in a white tshirt and jeans stands painting a mural on a large wooden building. He is standing on a blue tarp.

Selected artist Caoin painting one of the murals in Holliston | Photo Credit: MAPC

Four people stand together facing the camera and smiling with a painted mural on a large wooden wall behind them. They are standing on a blue tarp. From left to right: person with short hair, wearing a sea green tshirt and black shorts. Selected artist Caoin wearing a white tshirt and jeans. A person wearing dark pants a white shirt and a dark cardigan over the shirt. MAPC Arts Fellow Archana wearing a dark blue short sleeve shirt and black shorts.

From left to right: Melanie Hamblen, Holliston Economic Development Coordinator; selected artist Caoin; Kathleen Buckley, Holliston Assistant Town Manager; and MAPC Arts and Culture Fellow Archana Menon | Photo Credit: MAPC

Mural painted by Caoin on the doors of the Blair Square Pavilion. An illustration of numerous buildings in a town with animals such as rabbits, mice, and more as the towns people. Text says "explore Holliston" and it includes "@thegoodboy.collective"

Mural painted by selected artist Caoin on the Blaire Square Pavilion in Holliston | Photo Credit: MAPC

Mural painted by selected artist Caoin on an electric box at Washington and Hollis Street in Holliston. It's an abstract illustration of different types of animals as towns people standing in front of buildings. Text on it says, "Look towards our future! Explore Holliston!" and "@thegoodboy.collective"

Art mural painted by selected artist Caoin on an electric box at Washington and Hollis Street in Holliston | Photo Credit: MAPC

Mural painted by selected artist Caoin on an electric box at Washington and Green Street in Hollison. It's an illustration of the bottom of half of people - pants, skirts, walking through doorways. Text says, "Walk with Us! Explore Holliston" and "@thegoodboy.collective".

Mural painted by selected artist Caoin on an electric box at Washington and Green Street in Holliston | Photo Credit: MAPC

This artwork is the highlight of the Regional Trails Creative Placemaking Strategy, a collaborative effort between the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) and the Town of Holliston. Caoin O’Durgy and his team, The Good Boy Collective, have crafted a mural that captures Holliston’s essence with a whimsical, children’s book-inspired style.

The artwork includes a historical pavilion, a trail that integrates with the Town’s architecture, and 3D elements. Two electric boxes will also feature designs symbolizing the Town’s contemporary spirit and future vision.

Application Materials Archive

In summer 2024, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) and the Town of Holliston invited artists to apply for an exciting public art opportunity.

Artists were invited to submit their qualifications and preliminary concepts for mural artwork at three prominent sites where they would enhance connections between the Holliston Rail Trail and the downtown area:  

  1. The doors of the Blair Square Pavilion (Rail Trail at intersection with Central Street) 
  2. The electric box at the intersection of Washington and Hollis Streets
  3. The electric box at the intersection of Washington and Green Streets   

The selected artist or team would design and install murals at all three sites, and would receive a $10,000 stipend to bring their vision to life. The application deadline was in late July 2024, and the artwork would be installed by late August 2024.

 

Read the Call for Artists Information

Virtual Questions and Answers Session Video

July 9, 2024

 

Key Dates

June 28, 2024: Call for Artists opens 

July 9, 2024: Virtual Q&A Session
Register to Join the Q&A

July 19, 2024: Call for Artists closes 

July 23 – 25, 2024: Selection Committee reviews submissions and selects finalists 

July 26, 2024: Decisions and announcement of artists 

July 27 – August 30, 2024: Artists painting on sites

August 24 – 25, 2024: Celebration of completed project

September 2024: Celebration of completed project

List of Appendices

Appendix I:
Additional pictures of the sites

Appendix II:
Map of the sites for temporary public art 

Appendix III:
Sample budget template 

Appendix IV:
Selection Criteria and Evaluation Rubric  

Appendix V:
Artist Concept Development Grant Agreement

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