Department Mission

The BPDA's Development Review Department facilitates the review of small and large scale development projects, pursuant to Article 80 of the Boston Zoning Code. Led by a team of Project Management staff, this department coordinates with BPDA Planning & Urban Design staff, City Agencies, elected officials and the community to foster responsible development in the neighborhoods and the Downtown.

Role at the Agency

The Development Review Department is responsible for facilitating the evaluation of design, density, use, and physical and social impacts for all development projects in the City of Boston, including proposals for residential, commercial office, hotel, retail, and research & development uses.  The Project Managers assemble and work closely with Planners and Urban Design staff, relevant City Agencies and the community to ensure that the impacts of each project are identified and mitigated and that the design of the project is one that relates to and enhances the surrounding area.

Organization

The Development Review Department is led by the Director and Deputy Director of Development Review and is staffed by a team of Project Managers. Project Managers take the lead role in overseeing and coordinating the development review process for all projects that meet the threshold for either Small or Large Project Review.

For more information, please contact Michael Christopher, Director of Development Review.

Improving Our Development Review Process

We are excited to create a more predictable, transparent, and accountable process to review new development projects with community members and developers. This new process will support Mayor Wu’s direction for planning and development and aims to further our mission of addressing affordability, resilience, and equity in Boston.

The Article 80 Modernization project will study and recommend improvements for community engagement as well as development review operations. Development projects will continue to be reviewed and approved while this modernization process is underway. Learn more and find opportunities to share your ideas with us by visiting our project page.