Housing Authorities

Massachusetts is one of only a handful of states with a state public housing program. With 50,000 units, the state portfolio is larger than the Massachusetts federal housing portfolio of 34,000 units.

The state's public housing represents a responsibility and an opportunity. First, the existing units need to be maintained. Second, many public housing developments are on underutilized sites that could be used for the development of more housing.

MHP has produced reports and worked with other state agencies on creating guidelines and regulations to facilitate the preservation of existing public housing, and the creation of new housing on public housing sites. For all support materials created or commissioned by MHP, go to Resources and Links.

Amherst HA develops 8 units (Nov. 2006)

With help from MHP, Amherst Housing Authority adds four new units and preserves four others.

Developing Housing on Public Land (June 28, 2006)

In response to feedback from officials and local communities, this MHP guidebook is designed to help communities and housing authorities develop affordable housing on public land. Information is provided that will help a community go through the housing development process in accordance with state law.

Mixed financing of public housing (Sept. 9, 2005)

The state Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has issued new regulations that allows mixed financing for public housing. To view the new regulations, click here and go to the top item entitled "General Administration of Local Housing Authorities." New definitions and regulations concerning mixed financing of public housing are stated in 760 CMR 4.02 and in 760 CMR 4.12 through 4.16.

For more information about MHP, please email MHP or call 617-330-9944.