ISSUES
Intermediate Housing
Amid the ongoing housing crisis across the state, there is a significant shortage of affordable intermediate housing options, posing challenges for Franklin natives, prospective residents, and middle to lower-income families in securing housing within their budget. Intermediate housing caters to middle-income households who find themselves excluded from subsidized housing yet priced out of market-rate options. This housing type ensures affordability through government assistance, income restrictions, and comparable strategies, making it an attractive choice for potential buyers.
Housing Insecurity
Individuals without a place of residence, or on the verge of losing their housing, are largely individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, or facing financial constraints. While organizations like the Franklin Housing Authority and New England Center Homes for Veterans aim to prevent homelessness for vulnerable populations, they often lack sufficient resources and capacity. Securing the necessary support to house these individuals presents a significant obstacle.
Affordable Housing
Ensuring a community has a sufficient affordable housing stock is important to its well-being. Incorporating affordable housing units in Franklin caters to the needs of the lower-income population, enabling residents who wish to remain in the town to do so feasibly. Affordable housing choices also play a pivotal role in attracting and retaining a diverse workforce, vital for the town's sustained economic and social development. High housing costs often compel workers to endure long commutes or seek residence in more affordable communities, resulting in labor shortages and fewer small business opportunities. By expanding affordable housing opportunities, Franklin can bolster local businesses and industries while maintaining an inclusive community.
OPPORTUNITIES
Zoning
Town officials in Franklin are actively considering zoning amendments to promote additional mixed-use development across commercial and residential districts. These developments, which typically feature a variety of housing options such as apartments, townhouses, and condominiums, cater to the diverse needs of individuals and families. By offering a range of housing types, Franklin can foster socioeconomic diversity and inclusivity within the community.
The Franklin for All initiative, led by a residential steering committee and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), is currently in the planning phase, exploring strategies to boost downtown residency and introduce inclusionary zoning with denser development areas. One strategy currently being considered for implementation for Franklin’s zoning is a Chapter 40R Smart Growth Overlay District in the downtown area. This district would strike a balance between density, high-quality design, and the need for affordable housing, while also meeting the Section 3A housing requirements.
Age-Friendly Housing
The Town of Franklin and the Council on Aging actively support the concept of age- and ability-friendly preparedness to address the needs of its aging population. They advocate for housing solutions that enable residents to remain in Franklin even when changes in health or physical ability require additional assistance for standard living while maintaining independence. Town officials are presently engaged in efforts to expand the housing options for this population. For more information on Massachusetts’ 3A housing requirements, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/section-3a-guidelines
Public Education
Educating the public about the advantages of affordable housing along with the financial assistance, grants, and subsidies that support and promote it, can create a more inclusive community. Affordable housing and multifamily developments often face stigma due to misinformation. Through public education and awareness, Franklin can cultivate broader public understanding and support of these housing types.
-----------
Continue reading this Master Plan section in PDF format
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gtnxpyp39SnfKinQcUlp2U7M1Sas3cdB/view?usp=drive_link
Complete 2025 Master Plan report
https://www.franklinma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/4018/Final-Report
Town of Franklin Master Plans (prior years)
https://www.franklinma.gov/295/Master-Plan
