BPDA

BPDA stands for Boston Planning & Development Agency, the city of Boston's principal agency for land use planning, zoning, and economic development. It reviews and approves major development proposals, guides long-range planning, and issues permits for substantial work within the city. The agency also oversees neighborhood planning, design standards, and public realm improvements.

History and mandate: The BPDA was formed in 2016, replacing the Boston Redevelopment Authority, a municipal redevelopment agency active since 1957. The transition was part of reforms to increase transparency, public participation, and integrated planning across planning, zoning, and permitting functions.

Functions and authority: The BPDA conducts long-range planning, administers zoning under the Boston Zoning Code, and manages the Article 80 Development Review process for major projects. It reviews proposals, negotiates project scope and conditions, and coordinates economic development, housing affordability, and urban design initiatives. The agency also handles environmental review, historic preservation considerations, and public-amenity planning, and maintains planning documents and data resources.

Process and permits: Development proposals are screened by BPDA planners and may proceed through Article 80 review, with public meetings and staff reports. A formal decision is issued by the BPDA director. In many cases, subsequent city approvals or zoning actions may be required, followed by building permits issued by the city’s Inspectional Services Department.

Public engagement and transparency: The BPDA conducts public hearings, distributes notices, and invites community input through meetings and comment periods. It maintains online repositories of plans, maps, and project materials to facilitate informed participation.