[{"term":"Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection","type":"0","definition":"The state agency responsible for ensuring clean air and water, the safe management of toxics and hazards, the recycling of solid and hazardous wastes, the timely cleanup of hazardous waste sites and spills, and the preservation of wetlands and coastal resources. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Department of Housing and Community Development","type":"0","definition":"A state office with the mission of strengthening cities, towns and neighborhoods to enhance the quality of life of Massachusetts residents. DHCD administers programs relating to community development, affordable housing, housing stabilization programs, legal resources, and Indian affairs. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management","type":"0","definition":"State office which aims to balance the impacts of human activity with the protection of coastal and marine resources. CZM was established as a networked program meant to work with other state agencies, federal agencies, local governments, academic institutions, nonprofit groups, and the general public to promote sound management of the Massachusetts coast. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"State Housing Assistance for Rental Production","type":"0","definition":"State program enacted in 1983 which required that 25% of units in new rental housing projects be designated as affordable. Generally this was subsidized by a state contribution (considered to be a loan) which would bring a developer's mortgage interest rate down to 5% for 15 years. After 15 years the loan must be repaid to the Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Massachusetts Office of Building Development","type":"0","definition":"A state office with the mission of strengthening the economy and increasing job growth throughout Massachusetts by connecting businesses seeking to expand or locate in MA with resources, expertise and incentive programs in the Commonwealth. It partners with businesses through the Economic Development Inventive Program (EDIP) to drive job creation and provide investment in our communities. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Institutional Master Plan Notification Form","type":"0","definition":"The first document filed by a hospital or university to initiate the Institutional Master Plan (IMP) process described in Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"The Massachusetts Public Waterfront Act","type":"0","definition":"The Commonwealth's primary tool for protection and promotion of public use of its tidelands and other waterways. The oldest program of its kind in the nation, Chapter 91 regulates activities on both coastal and inland waterways, including construction, dredging and filling in tidelands, great ponds and certain rivers and streams. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Department of Neighborhood Development","type":"0","definition":"DND provides services and programs to the City's neighborhoods through seven divisions: Administration & Finance, Director's Office, The Boston Home Center, Neighborhood Housing Development, Office of Business Development, Policy Development and Research, and Real Estate Management & Sales. DND is a department of the City of Boston's administration and works closely with the BPDA. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Economic Development Incentive Program","type":"0","definition":"A MA-run investment tax incentive program operated by the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) in conjunction with the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) used to create full-time jobs and stimulate business throughout MA. In order to receive an EDIP Investment Tax Credit (ITC), a company must generate substantial sales outside of the Commonwealth and meet one of the following criteria: significant creation of...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Incremental Real Estate Property Taxes","type":"0","definition":"Real estate property taxes are calculated by multiplying the assessed value of a property by a given tax rate. When a piece of land is built on, or an existing building is renovated, its assessed value will increase, and with that increase its real estate property taxes will increase as well. The incremental real estate property tax is the difference between the value of pre-construction real estate property tax and that of the post-construction ...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Greenbelt Protection Overlay District","type":"0","definition":"Special zoning district that may be designated along Boston's Greenbelt Roadways. A Greenbelt Roadway includes any landscaped roadway or major thoroughfare that is characterized by open space or landscaping along its right-of-way or that is used primarily by noncommercial or pleasure vehicles. Any pro...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Boston Local Development Corporation","type":"0","definition":"A private 501(c)(3) non-profit Corporation administred by BPDA staff. The BLDC provides loans of up to $150,000 for businesses in, or relocating to, the City of Boston. These loans can be used when buiying a new business property, purchasing equipment and machinery, constructing an addition to an existing plan, making leasehold improvements, or providing working capital to grow a business. Generally the BLDC partners with local banks and provides...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Conservation Protection Subdistrict","type":"0","definition":"Special zoning district that may be established to promote the most desirable use of land and siting of development in areas with special natural or scenic features in accordance with a well-considered plan. Site plans for projects proposed in a CPS must show that the project will result in the minimum interference with significant natural features, provide for proper management and maintenance of those features, and avoid excessive run...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Infrastructure Investment Incentive","type":"0","definition":"Program creating a partnership between a private development, its municipality and the State of Massachusetts that fosters job growth and economic development through investment in new public infrastructure necessary to support that development. Unlike TIF and DIF projects, I3 projects rely on the incremental income tax revenues the development pays to the State (TIF and DIF projects utilize incremental real estate property tax revenue, which goe...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Institutional Master Plan Amendment","type":"0","definition":"A required Article 80-D procedure for institutions that wish to make changes to an existing IMP, such as adding land or new projects. In general, the procedure for amending ...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Interim Planning Overlay Districts","type":"0","definition":"Short-term zoning code adopted by the City for a geographic area which is undergoing a longer term planning or rezoning process. An IPOD ensures that projects seeking approval in the near term will meet the goals of the longer term planning or rezoning process, rather than continuing current, likely outmoded, development patterns.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Planned Development Area Amendment","type":"0","definition":"Filed under the Article 80 process when a new project is to be added, or a major change made, to an existing Planned Development Area. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Preliminary Adequacy Determination","type":"0","definition":"A possible requirement during the Article 80 review process. Following the submission of a project's Draft Project Impact Report (DPIR) and public comments, the BPDA may require additional information on certain project impacts. If this is the case, the BPDA will issue a PAD which outlines the impa...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Community Development Block Grant","type":"0","definition":"Community Development Block Grants (CDBGs) are granted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to states or municipalities to support community programs related to affordable housing, job creation, and business retention. CDBG funding is primarily targeted for activities that benefit low- and moderate-income persons. More information in CDBG grants is available from HUD's CDBG webpage.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Interim Planning Overlay District","type":"0","definition":"Short-term zoning code adopted by the City for a geographic area which is undergoing a longer term planning or rezoning process. An IPOD ensures that projects seeking approval in the near term will meet the goals of the longer term planning or rezoning process, rather than continuing current, likely outmoded, development patterns.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Inspectional Services Department","type":"0","definition":"A City of Boston department which administers the Boston Zoning Code and the State Building Code and issues all building, use, and occupancy permits. If a project requires development review under Article 80, ISD will not issue a permit until the BPDA and the Zoning Commission (if necessary) have completed the required review and the BPDA has certified that the project described in the permit application is consistent with the project approved th...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Inclusionary Development Policy","type":"0","definition":"Established in 2000 to promote the production of affordable housing in Boston. Under IDP, developers may include affordable units within their developments (on-site), create affordable housing in an off-site location, or make a cash contribution towards the creation or preservation of affordable housing.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Urban Renewal Overlay Districts","type":"0","definition":"Special zoning districts as set forth in Section 3-1A(b) of the Boston Zoning Code and located within Urban Renewal areas. Commonly referred to as a U District and created by a map amendment, these special zoning districts create the zoning for that area.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Boston Civic Design Commission","type":"0","definition":"An appointed commission which advises the BPDA and the Mayor on the design of projects of special civic or urban design significance. The BCDC meets in regularly-scheduled public meetings to review project designs. Members of the public are welcome and encouraged to attend the BCDC’s meetings. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"District Improvement Financing","type":"0","definition":"A mode of municipal financing utilized in areas that are designated as DIF districts by the State’s Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC). DIF districts are selected by the municipality because of their need for infrastructure enhancements to unleash significant economic development potential or attract nearby private investment. As with a TIF, a DIF creates a partnership between a company and a municipality through the ...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Business Improvement District","type":"0","definition":"A special district in which all property owners pay additional fees, usually assessed based on property value, towards the maintenance of that district above and beyond what the city and state contribute. Extra services may include street cleaning, marketing, events, capital improvements, beautification, and security. At least 51% of the property owners with 61% of the assessed value must agree to form a district. Though there are over 1,000 BIDs...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Geographic Information System","type":"0","definition":"A technology that uses hardware and software to collect, analyze, display and store geographically referenced information in maps, tables, 3-D displays, and other formats. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Small Business Administration","type":"0","definition":"A federal agency which offfers loans, loan guarantees, contracts, conseling sessions, and other forms of assistance to small business.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Exceptional Opportunity Area","type":"0","definition":"Non-ETA municipalities that have been designated by the Director of the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) as “presenting exceptional opportunities for increased economic development.” The municipality must request this designation, which allows it to negotiate local tax incentives with a proposed economic development project. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Boston Landmarks Commission","type":"0","definition":"The municipal preservation agency for Boston's historic buildings, places, and neighborhoods. Its functions include identifying and preserving historic properties, reviewing development and demolition activities proposed in the City, providing public information and assistance on historic preservation practices, and providing staff support to the local Historic District Commissions. The Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Draft Project Impact Report","type":"0","definition":"A possible requirement during the Article 80 process. If, following the review of a project's PNF, the BPDA finds that further study of certain impact areas is required, the BPDA may request a DPIR. The DPIR includes detail technical analysis of project impacts and may be commented on by the BPDA, city agencies, and the public.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Final Project Impact Report","type":"0","definition":"A possible requirement during the Article 80 process. If, following the review of a project's PNF and DPIR, the BPDA finds that further study of certain impact ...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Request for Qualitifactions","type":"0","definition":"A preliminary document issued by the BPDA when it requires goods or services from an outside contractor. An RFQ describes the scope of a contract for which the BPDA requires assistance, and invites proponents to submit information about their experience and initial ideas. An RFQ may be used to narrow the pool of proponents for a subsequent RFP.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Development Impact Project","type":"0","definition":"Project which requires zoning relief and proposes to include one or more Development Impact Uses (office, retail business, service, public service uses, institutional, educational, hotel, motel, or other uses that result in the reduction in the supply of low and moderate income dwelling units). Projects that qualify as DIPs must pay into the linkage fund, which is a fund that assists with the creation and preservation of housi...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Land Disposition Agreement","type":"0","definition":"An agreement with the BPDA that governs the transfer and use of BPDA owned parcels; typically recorded with the deed.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Economic Opportunity Area","type":"0","definition":"An area within a designated ETA (Economic Target Area) of particular need and priority for economic development. These areas are selected by the individual communities, and must meet one of four statutory criteria for designation (blighted open area, decadent area, substandard area, or area that has experienced a plant closing). A project must be located within an EOA in order to be eligible for state and/or local benefits as a Certified Expansio...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Institutional Master Plan","type":"0","definition":"Planning and zoning document required by Article 80-D for all colleges, universities, and hospitals with over 150,000 SF of tax-exempt real estate. IMPs include information ...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Project Notification Form","type":"0","definition":"The second document filed by a project proponent with the BPDA during the Article 80 process (the first being a Letter of Intent (LOI). A PNF describes the features of the proposed project and is available to the public for review and comment. After reviewing the contents of the PNF and the commen...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Additional Dwelling Unit","type":"0","definition":"A new typology to Boston that could create naturally affordable rental units without significantly changing the fabric of the existing neighborhoods, by allowing owner occupants to carve out space within the envelope of their home for a smaller, independent rental unit.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Notice of Project Change","type":"0","definition":"A document which may be filed by a project proponent with the BPDA if the project scope undergoes changes that are substantial enough to call for additional review and approval.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Payment in Lieu of Taxes","type":"0","definition":"Voluntary payments made to a municipality by tax-exempt entities such as universities, hospitals, or museums. PILOTs reimburse the city for the cost of providing city services to these institutions. In 2011 the City of Boston established guidelines which requested PILOT payments equal to 25% of the property tax which an institution would pay were its real estate taxable. Each institution is eligible for a community benefits deduction up to 50% of...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Planned Development Area","type":"0","definition":"An overlay zoning district which may be established under Article 80 where a development that is well-suited to its location cannot be accommodated by the general zoning for the area. For example, a PDA may be appropriate where a development involves a large building, a cluster of buildings, or a mix o...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Boston Zoning Commssion","type":"0","definition":"The Zoning Commission is responsible for adopting all new zoning and zoning amendments, for establishing PDAs and approving PDA Development Plans, and for approving Institutional Master Plans. The Zoning Commission is located within the City of Boston's administration, not the BPDA. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Tax Increment Financing","type":"0","definition":"A tax incentive available to businesses in Massachusetts. In return for substantial job creation, a municipality may provide a business with real estate property tax relief on the business’s incremental real estate property taxes for up to 20 years. In addition to a re...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Adequacy Determination","type":"0","definition":"Issued by the BPDA when a project undergoing Article 80 review has fully addressed and mitigated its impacts as presented in a Final Impact Report.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Special Tax Assessment","type":"0","definition":"A partnership between a municipality and a Certified Project that results in a phased-in assessment of the total value of the property (both existing and new real estate) in return for job creation within that municipality. The agreement may last anywhere from 5 to 20 years and will take the following progression: In year one, 0% of the total assessed value is taxed, in year two up to 25% may be taxed, followed by up to 50% in year thre...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Cooperation Agreement","type":"0","definition":"Legal agreement entered into by the BPDA and a developer after the completion of the Article 80 review process. The Cooperation Agreement details any and all agreed upon public benefits and mitigation to be provided by the development project. The Impact Advisory Group is allowed a 15-day review period on the final draft of the Cooperation Agreement.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Demonstration Project","type":"0","definition":"The application of a BPDA power and function derived from Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 121B, Section 46(f) to create a plan for a specific parcel to enable development outside of an urban renewal area.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Impact Advisory Group","type":"0","definition":"A nominated group of community members who help the BPDA to determine appropriate strategies to mitigate the social and environmental impacts of projects reviewed under Article 80.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Non-employer Business","type":"0","definition":"Defined by the U.S. Census bureau as a business that has no paid employees, has annual business receipts of $1,000 or more and is subject to federal income taxes. Most non-employers are self-employed individuals operating very small unincorporated businesses, which may or may not be the owner's principal source of income.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Request for Proposals","type":"0","definition":"A document issued by the BPDA when it requires goods or services from an outside contractor. The RFP outlines the scope of work required in detail. Generally, RFP responses (or "bids") are reviewed by committee, and a shortlist of proponents are invited to the BPDA to interview before a final proponent is selected. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Scoping Determination","type":"0","definition":"A BPDA directive which may be issued during the Article 80 process after the filing of a Project Notification Form (“PNF”). If, after review of a project's PNF by the BPDA, city agencies, and the public, it is determined that additional information is required, the BPDA will issue a Sco...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Economic Target Area","type":"0","definition":"Municipalities within Massachusetts that the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) has designated as targets for economic development. This designation is based on income, unemployment, and other economic characteristics of the area, and may also be appropriate if the area contains certain special features. A municipality must make a request to the EACC to receive the designation; however, there is a limit to the number of ETAs that may...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Small Project Review","type":"0","definition":"An Article 80 review process which engages the BPDA's Urban Design Department and allows for city agencies and the impacted community to weigh in on projects that do not meet the threshold for Large Project Review, but that merit review because of their location, size, and use. In general, Small Pr...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Accessory Land Use","type":"0","definition":"A land use that is related to and on the same lot as the principal land use.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Artist Certificate","type":"0","definition":"A letter from the BPDA to an artist that confirms that the artist has been reviewed by a committee of peers and is “certified” as a working artist. An Artist Certificate qualifies an artist for a period of five years as eligible for artist spaces. Upon expiration, an artist will need to seek new certification.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Major Modification","type":"0","definition":"Major modifications to urban renewal plans are those changes that substantially change the purpose or character of the plan. Major modifications generally require the approval of the BPDA, the Mayor, the Boston City Council, and the approval of the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Minor Modification","type":"0","definition":"Minor modifications to urban renewal plans are those that do not alter the fundamental essence of an urban renewal plan and require only the approval of the BPDA.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Certified Project","type":"0","definition":"A business that is expanding or relocating its existing operations, or building new facilities and creating permanent jobs within an Economic Opportunity Area (EOA). It must meet state and local criteria and must be approved by the Town and the State’s Economic Assistance Coordinating Council, and once certified is eligible to receive state and local tax incentives.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Gateway Community","type":"0","definition":"A municipality that has a population greater than 35,000 people with a median household income and educational attainment rate below the Commonwealth’s average, as measured by census data.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Melting Pot Index","type":"0","definition":"The proportion of the total population that is foreign-born.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Nonconforming use","type":"0","definition":"A use or activity which was lawful prior to the adoption or amendment of the Zoning Code, but which does not , because of such adoption or amendment, conform to the present requirements of the Zoning Code.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Community Garden","type":"0","definition":"Designated gardening area which is composed of small plots that are tended by individuals, or large plots that are tended by a team or organization. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Letter of Intent","type":"0","definition":"The first document filed by a project proponent with the BPDA during the Article 80 process. The letter must provide details about the proposed project including the location, general description, use, size, potential zoning relief, and any other relevant information regarding the project. The Letter o...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Non-housing site","type":"0","definition":"Site where residential development is not allowed by zoning or other regulations. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Work-only spaces","type":"0","definition":"Spaces where residential use is not allowed.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Conditional use","type":"0","definition":"A land use permitted by the Zoning Code provided that it is found by the Board of Appeal to comply with certain conditions set out in the Code.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Conveyance Date","type":"0","definition":"The date on which a deed or title is transferred to another party.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Industrial Park","type":"0","definition":"An area designed and zoned for manufacturing and associated activities.
","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Live/Work Space","type":"0","definition":"Space where artists or other self-employed individuals combine their residence with their work area, typically in an open floor plan.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Bohemian Index","type":"0","definition":"A location quotient that compares the region's share of the nation's bohemians (employed in artistic and creative occupations) to the region's share of the nation's population.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Determination","type":"0","definition":"The BPDA issues a Determination after the filing of a Notice of Project Change, certifying that no further review is required.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Forbidden use","type":"0","definition":"A use that is not permitted in a particular district because of harmful impacts on other allowed uses; e.g., noise, pollution.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Sliver Parcel","type":"0","definition":"Parcel of land that is determined to be unbuildable due to its small size.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Urban Renewal","type":"0","definition":"A federal government funding program that began with the passage of the Housing Act of 1949. Designed to create housing and promote economic development within the nation’s rapidly deteriorating inner cities, urban renewal was introduced to Boston in the 1950s and 1960s. The urban renewal program allows the BPDA, as the redevelopment authority, certain tools to catalyze development within an urban renewal area such as eminent domain, zoning...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Back Streets","type":"0","definition":"A BPDA Business Development program which supports Boston's small and medium-sized manufacturing, wholesale, construction, commercial services, logistics, and food processing businesses. Back Streets offers services to protect industrial land use through planning and zoning, identify opportunities for industrial expansion and development, identify transit and infrastructure improvements, and identify public realm improvements.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"Chapter 121A","type":"0","definition":"A designation given to certain development projects within Massachusetts that serve a public purpose or generate economic advancement in areas that are blighted and minimally marketable for private investment. This designation forms a special partnership between the State, the BPDA and the developer that results in a streamlined regulatory process and a negotiated alternative tax payment in lieu of real and personal property taxes. The streamlini...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Main Streets","type":"0","definition":"Originating as a subsidiary of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Main Street(s) programs arose as a means for advancing the preservation-based revitalization of commercial districts throughout the country. Boston's Main Streets program supports a network of neighborhood-based Main Streets organizations which aim to preserve historic building stoc...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Talent Index","type":"0","definition":"The proportion of the population over 18 years of age with a bachelor's degree or higher.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Allowed Use","type":"0","definition":"A land use that is permitted as a matter of right. Board of Appeal approval is not required.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"As of Right","type":"0","definition":"Those uses that are automatically allowed by the zoning code. They are allowed \"as a matter of right\".","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Board Dates","type":"0","definition":"The BPDA's Board of Directors generally meets every three weeks and serves as the agency's final decision making authority. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Restriction","type":"0","definition":"A limitation placed upon the use of property, contained in the deed or other written instruments in the chain of title or in local ordinances pertaining to land use.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Article 80","type":"0","definition":"Adopted in 1996 by the BPDA to provide clear guidelines for the development review process relating to large projects (adding/constructing more than 50,000 square feet), small projects (adding/constructing more than 20,000 square feet and/or 15+ net new residential units), planned development areas (new overlay zoning districts for project areas larger than 1 acre), and institutional master plans (projects relating to academic and medical campuse...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Chapter 91","type":"0","definition":"The Commonwealth's primary tool for protection and promotion of public use of its tidelands and other waterways. The oldest program of its kind in the nation, Chapter 91 regulates activities on both coastal and inland waterways, including construction, dredging and filling in tidelands, great ponds and certain rivers and streams. ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Zoning Map","type":"0","definition":"Map documents which correspond with Boston's written Zoning Code to indicate which zoning requirements apply to which geographic area.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Designate","type":"0","definition":"To indicate and set apart for a specific purpose.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Variance","type":"0","definition":"Permission to deviate from a specific requirement of the Zoning Code.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"HUBZone","type":"0","definition":"A U.S. Small Business Administration program which helps small businesses in urban and rural communities gain preferential access to federal procurement opportunities. A "HUBZone" is a historically underutilized business zone, and several areas of Boston are considered to l...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Linkage","type":"0","definition":"A legislatively-mandated policy, passed in 1986 by the Massachusetts legislature and City of Boston, which applies to new commercial developments over 100,000 square feet that require zoning relief. Linkage requires developers to pay into the linkage fund for the creation of housing and job training programs. Section 80B-7 (Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Parking","type":"0","definition":"A requirement of most development in Boston. Parking may be surface, underground, or structured (above-ground parking garages). ","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Appeal","type":"0","definition":"A request made to the Board of Appeal for relief from zoning code regulations.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Convey","type":"0","definition":"To transfer property form one to another, by means of a written instrument and other formalities. To deed or transfer title to another.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"Zoning","type":"0","definition":"A tool used by the City to dictate the allowed shape, density, and use of development in a given area. Boston's Zoning Code incorporates a written code (describing setbacks, heights, allowed uses, densities, etc.) and maps which indicate which geographic areas are subject to which Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"IMPNF","type":"0","definition":"The first document filed by a hospital or university to initiate the Institutional Master Plan (IMP) process described in Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"PILOT","type":"0","definition":"Voluntary payments made to a municipality by tax-exempt entities such as universities, hospitals, or museums. PILOTs reimburse the city for the cost of providing city services to these institutions. In 2011 the City of Boston established guidelines which requested PILOT payments equal to 25% of the property tax which an institution would pay were its real estate taxable. Each institution is eligible for a community benefits deduction up to 50% of...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"SHARP","type":"0","definition":"State program enacted in 1983 which required that 25% of units in new rental housing projects be designated as affordable. Generally this was subsidized by a state contribution (considered to be a loan) which would bring a developer's mortgage interest rate down to 5% for 15 years. After 15 years the loan must be repaid to the Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"BCDC","type":"0","definition":"An appointed commission which advises the BPDA and the Mayor on the design of projects of special civic or urban design significance. The BCDC meets in regularly-scheduled public meetings to review project designs. Members of the public are welcome and encouraged to attend the BCDC’s meetings.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"BLDC","type":"0","definition":"A private 501(c)(3) non-profit Corporation administred by BPDA staff. The BLDC provides loans of up to $150,000 for businesses in, or relocating to, the City of Boston. These loans can be used when buiying a new business property, purchasing equipment and machinery, constructing an addition to an existing plan, making leasehold improvements, or providing working capital to grow a business. Generally the BLDC partners with local banks and provides...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"CDBG","type":"0","definition":"Community Development Block Grants (CDBGs) are granted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to states or municipalities to support community programs related to affordable housing, job creation, and business retention. CDBG funding is primarily targeted for activities that benefit low- and moderate-income persons. More information in CDBG grants is available from HUD's CDBG webpage.","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"DHCD","type":"0","definition":"A state office with the mission of strengthening cities, towns and neighborhoods to enhance the quality of life of Massachusetts residents. DHCD administers programs relating to community development, affordable housing, housing stabilization programs, legal resources, and Indian affairs. ","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"DPIR","type":"0","definition":"A possible requirement during the Article 80 process. If, following the review of a project's PNF, the BPDA finds that further study of certain impact areas is required, the BPDA may request a DPIR. The DPIR includes detail technical analysis of project impacts and may be commented on by the BPDA, city agencies, and the public.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"EDIP","type":"0","definition":"A MA-run investment tax incentive program operated by the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) in conjunction with the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) used to create full-time jobs and stimulate business throughout MA. In order to receive an EDIP Investment Tax Credit (ITC), a company must generate substantial sales outside of the Commonwealth and meet one of the following criteria: significant creation of...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"FPIR","type":"0","definition":"A possible requirement during the Article 80 process. If, following the review of a project's PNF and DPIR, the BPDA finds that further study of certain impact ...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"GPOD","type":"0","definition":"Special zoning district that may be designated along Boston's Greenbelt Roadways. A Greenbelt Roadway includes any landscaped roadway or major thoroughfare that is characterized by open space or landscaping along its right-of-way or that is used primarily by noncommercial or pleasure vehicles. Any pro...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"},{"term":"IPOD","type":"0","definition":"Short-term zoning code adopted by the City for a geographic area which is undergoing a longer term planning or rezoning process. An IPOD ensures that projects seeking approval in the near term will meet the goals of the longer term planning or rezoning process, rather than continuing current, likely outmoded, development patterns.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"MOBD","type":"0","definition":"A state office with the mission of strengthening the economy and increasing job growth throughout Massachusetts by connecting businesses seeking to expand or locate in MA with resources, expertise and incentive programs in the Commonwealth. It partners with businesses through the Economic Development Inventive Program (EDIP) to drive job creation and provide investment in our communities.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"PDAA","type":"0","definition":"Filed under the Article 80 process when a new project is to be added, or a major change made, to an existing Planned Development Area.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"ADU","type":"0","definition":"Additional Dwelling Unit. A new typology to Boston that could create naturally affordable rental units without significantly changing the fabric of the existing neighborhoods, by allowing owner occupants to carve out space within the envelope of their home for a smaller, independent rental unit.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"BLC","type":"0","definition":"The municipal preservation agency for Boston's historic buildings, places, and neighborhoods. Its functions include identifying and preserving historic properties, reviewing development and demolition activities proposed in the City, providing public information and assistance on historic preservation practices, and providing staff support to the local Historic District Commissions. The Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"BZC","type":"0","definition":"The Zoning Commission is responsible for adopting all new zoning and zoning amendments, for establishing PDAs and approving PDA Development Plans, and for approving Institutional Master Plans. The Zoning Commission is located within the City of Boston's administration, not the BPDA.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"CPS","type":"0","definition":"Special zoning district that may be established to promote the most desirable use of land and siting of development in areas with special natural or scenic features in accordance with a well-considered plan. Site plans for projects proposed in a CPS must show that the project will result in the minimum interference with significant natural features, provide for proper management and maintenance of those features, and avoid excessive run...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"CZM","type":"0","definition":"State office which aims to balance the impacts of human activity with the protection of coastal and marine resources. CZM was established as a networked program meant to work with other state agencies, federal agencies, local governments, academic institutions, nonprofit groups, and the general public to promote sound management of the Massachusetts coast.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"DEP","type":"0","definition":"The state agency responsible for ensuring clean air and water, the safe management of toxics and hazards, the recycling of solid and hazardous wastes, the timely cleanup of hazardous waste sites and spills, and the preservation of wetlands and coastal resources.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"DIF","type":"0","definition":"A mode of municipal financing utilized in areas that are designated as DIF districts by the State’s Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC). DIF districts are selected by the municipality because of their need for infrastructure enhancements to unleash significant economic development potential or attract nearby private investment. As with a TIF, a DIF creates a partnership between a company and a municipality through the ...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"DIP","type":"0","definition":"Project which requires zoning relief and proposes to include one or more Development Impact Uses (office, retail business, service, public service uses, institutional, educational, hotel, motel, or other uses that result in the reduction in the supply of low and moderate income dwelling units). Projects that qualify as DIPs must pay into the linkage fund, which is a fund that assists with the creation and preservation of housi...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"DND","type":"0","definition":"DND provides services and programs to the City's neighborhoods through seven divisions: Administration & Finance, Director's Office, The Boston Home Center, Neighborhood Housing Development, Office of Business Development, Policy Development and Research, and Real Estate Management & Sales. DND is a department of the City of Boston's administration and works closely with the BPDA.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"EOA","type":"0","definition":"An area within a designated ETA (Economic Target Area) of particular need and priority for economic development. These areas are selected by the individual communities, and must meet one of four statutory criteria for designation (blighted open area, decadent area, substandard area, or area that has experienced a plant closing). A project must be located within an EOA in order to be eligible for state and/or local benefits as a Certified Expansio...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"ETA","type":"0","definition":"Municipalities within Massachusetts that the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) has designated as targets for economic development. This designation is based on income, unemployment, and other economic characteristics of the area, and may also be appropriate if the area contains certain special features. A municipality must make a request to the EACC to receive the designation; however, there is a limit to the number of ETAs that may...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"GIS","type":"0","definition":"A technology that uses hardware and software to collect, analyze, display and store geographically referenced information in maps, tables, 3-D displays, and other formats.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"IAG","type":"0","definition":"A nominated group of community members who help the BPDA to determine appropriate strategies to mitigate the social and environmental impacts of projects reviewed under Article 80. ","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"IDP","type":"0","definition":"Established in 2000 to promote the production of affordable housing in Boston. Under IDP, developers may include affordable units within their developments (on-site), create affordable housing in an off-site location, or make a cash contribution towards the creation or preservation of affordable housing.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"IMP","type":"0","definition":"Planning and zoning document required by Article 80-D for all colleges, universities, and hospitals with over 150,000 SF of tax-exempt real estate. IMPs include information ...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"ISD","type":"0","definition":"A City of Boston department which administers the Boston Zoning Code and the State Building Code and issues all building, use, and occupancy permits. If a project requires development review under Article 80, ISD will not issue a permit until the BPDA and the Zoning Commission (if necessary) have completed ...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"LOI","type":"0","definition":"The first document filed by a project proponent with the BPDA during the Article 80 process. The letter must provide details about the proposed project including the location, general description, use, size, potential zoning relief, and any other relevant information regarding the project. The Letter o...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"NPC","type":"0","definition":"A document which may be filed by a project proponent with the BPDA if the project scope undergoes changes that are substantial enough to call for additional review and approval.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"PAD","type":"0","definition":"A possible requirement during the Article 80 review process. Following the submission of a project's Draft Project Impact Report (DPIR) and public comments, the BPDA may require additional information on certain project impacts. If this is the case, the BPDA will issue a PAD which outlines the impa...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"PNF","type":"0","definition":"The second document filed by a project proponent with the BPDA during theArticle 80 process (the first being a Letter of Intent (LOI). A PNF describes the features of the proposed project and is available to the public for review and comment. After reviewing the contents of the PNF and the comments rec...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"RFP","type":"0","definition":"A document issued by the BPDA when it requires goods or services from an outside contractor. The RFP outlines the scope of work required in detail. Generally, RFP responses (or "bids") are reviewed by committee, and a shortlist of proponents are invited to the BPDA to interview before a final proponent is selected.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"RFQ","type":"0","definition":"A preliminary document issued by the BPDA when it requires goods or services from an outside contractor. An RFQ describes the scope of a contract for which the BPDA requires assistance, and invites proponents to submit information about their experience and initial ideas. An RFQ may be used to narrow the pool of proponents for a subsequent RFP.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"SBA","type":"0","definition":"A federal agency which offfers loans, loan guarantees, contracts, conseling sessions, and other forms of assistance to small business.","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"STA","type":"0","definition":"A partnership between a municipality and a Certified Project that results in a phased-in assessment of the total value of the property (both existing and new real estate) in return for job creation within that municipality. The agreement may last anywhere from 5 to 20 years and will take the following progression: In year one, 0% of the total assessed value is taxed, in year two up to 25% may be taxed, followed by up to 50% in year three, up to 7...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"TIF","type":"0","definition":"A tax incentive available to businesses in Massachusetts. In return for substantial job creation, a municipality may provide a business with real estate property tax relief on the business’s incremental real estate property taxes for up to 20 years. In addition to a re...Read More »","ignorecase":"false"},{"term":"I3","type":"0","definition":"Program creating a partnership between a private development, its municipality and the State of Massachusetts that fosters job growth and economic development through investment in new public infrastructure necessary to support that development. Unlike TIF and DIF projects, I3 projects rely on the incremental income tax revenues the development pays to the State (TIF and DIF projects utilize incremental real estate property tax revenue, which goe...Read More »","ignorecase":"true"}]