Implementing state programs at the community level  

Keeping up with the State of Massachusetts takes a lot of effort. Local communities may not necessarily have the resources to undertake implementing state programs on their own. Following state initiatives and implementing them at the local community level is all part of MVPCs comprehensive planning strategy.

Priority Development Site (PDS)

MVPC assists communities implement programs and initiatives offered by the State of Massachusetts, such as the identification and approval of Chapter 43D Priority Development Sites (PDS).  A PDS is a privately or publicly owned property that is industrially or commercially zoned and eligible under applicable zoning provisions to be developed or redeveloped for at least 50,000-square-feet of gross floor area in a new or existing building. Chapter 43D PDS sites must provide a transparent and efficient process for municipal permitting decisions within 180 days of application.

Within the Merrimack Valley, Amesbury, Haverhill, Andover, Georgetown, North Andover, and Lawrence have PDS sites. Andover has nine sites, more than any community statewide. MVPC works closely with these communities on planning and permit streamlining projects as required by the state. MVPC has conducted 43D technical assistance projects in Haverhill, Georgetown, Andover, and North Andover.

District Local Technical Assistance (DLTA)

Each year, MVPC is awarded grants and funds to develop highly specialized projects. After receiving District Local Technical Assistance (DLTA) funds, MVPC developed several highly successful, regional collaboration projects, like the energy management “Brownfields into Brightfields” initiative. DLTA funds are also used for many land-use projects in the region, including storm-water inventory and mapping, development of open-space plans, zoning analyses, and implementation of the Merrimack Valley Priority Growth Strategy.