Thursday, January 16, 2025

BEN's Bulletin: Master Plan Edition

BEN's Bulletin (01/15/25)

Happy new year! In light of tonight's Master Plan Committee meeting, we jump right into it with a special edition on Franklin's ongoing Master Plan Update.

As always, feel free to join our next monthly meeting (TOMORROW, 1/16 at 7pm) at Franklin TV or virtually at the following link: meet.ben4franklin.org.

The Master Plan

This edition, we're taking a quick break from BEN's Take on upcoming meetings to give you an overview of Franklin's ongoing Master Plan Update as it is nears completion. The latest (and potentially final) draft of the Master Plan can be found here.

Overview

A master plan is a strategic framework that guides the future physical and economic development for the Town of Franklin based on the community's vision and goals.
A municipality's Master Plan is submitted to the state according to their guidelines (MGL c.41 s.81D), which dictate a Plan must include the following elements: Land Use; Housing; Economic Development; Circulation; Open Space and Recreation; Natural, Cultural and Historic Resources; Community Services and Facilities; Sustainability; Goals and Policies; Implementation.
In 2023, Franklin formed a Master Plan Committee to update its last Master Plan from 2013.
The Committee - consisting of members of the Town Council, Planning Board, other Boards, and public - has been meeting regularly over the past two years and collecting feedback across numerous public meetings, hearings, surveys, presentations, staff discussions, and workshops.

What Excites Us

In general, BEN is highly supportive of the Master Plan as currently drafted and our members' input throughout the stakeholdering process has helped shape it into its current form. Here are five reasons BEN is particularly excited about this Plan:

Boosts Housing Affordability
- Supports upzoning and mixed-use neighborhoods to strategically increase housing options in smart locations
- Promotes diverse housing types, including missing middle housing, scaled affordability requirements, and public housing funding
Drives Economic Growth
- Encourages strategic development to grow tax revenue and create job opportunities
- Invests in infrastructure and cultural amenities to support businesses and enhance community vitality
Enhances Connectivity
- Expands transportation options to link neighborhoods with jobs, schools, and amenities
- Develops walkable and bikeable paths to improve mobility and access across Franklin
Celebrates Franklin's Neighborhoods
- Strengthens neighborhood character with parks, walkable spaces, and local services
- Fosters a sense of place by enhancing amenities and connections within neighborhoods
Balances Growth and Preservation
- Promotes sustainable practices to ensure new growth complements the town's character and long-term vision
- Expands access to parks, trails, and recreational facilities to improve quality of life and promote community health

Upcoming Dates

TONIGHT (1/15, 6:30pm) - Master Plan Committee
- Committee will review and approve a Final Master Plan for presentation and consideration before the Planning Board and Town Council
1/27, 7:00pm - Planning Board
- The Planning Board is the official approver of the Master Plan, according to the state.
- While Board members have provided input throughout the process, they will have an additional opportunity to ask questions following a presentation.
- We are encouraging our members to attend this meeting and, as comfortable, express support for the Plan's passage.
TBD - Town Council
- Committee will present the Final Master Plan to the Town Council and public