#  Economic Feasibility and Fiscal Impact of Multifamily Zoning Near Storey Avenue 

 



The Storey Avenue district of Newburyport presents a significant opportunity to enhance a primary city gateway through targeted land use reforms. This project evaluated the economic feasibility and fiscal impacts of introducing new multifamily zoning in the area, with a focus on aligning development with the requirements of the MBTA Communities Act. Analyses encompassed alternative zoning scenarios, market conditions, revenue im

 ![Photo](/sites/g/files/omnuum12421/files/2026-01/Picture6.jpg)

 

plications, and potential effects on school enrollment and city services.



 

 ### Project Partner

Mayor Sean Reardon, City of Newburyport

Andrew Levine, Chief of Staff

Andy Port, Planning & Development Department



 

 ### Project Summary

The Field Lab partnered with the City of Newburyport to examine potential zoning changes near Storey Avenue, a key gateway corridor into the city. The project supported the City’s efforts to consider new multifamily zoning in alignment with the MBTA Communities Act and broader housing and redevelopment goals. Students worked with City staff to explore how different zoning approaches could affect future development, housing supply, and municipal finances. The project aimed to provide a clear, accessible foundation to support ongoing policy discussions around growth, affordability, and fiscal sustainability.



 

 ### Areas of Focus

The team examined alternative zoning approaches for the Storey Avenue area, the economic feasibility of potential multifamily development, and the possible implications for city revenues, schools, and municipal services. The work was intended to support City leadership as they evaluated redevelopment options along a major corridor with long-term implications for Newburyport.



 

  

 

 

 

 



 

 See also:- [ Newburyport ](/city-agency/newburyport)
- [ MLD-412: Greater Boston Advanced Applied Field Lab ](/course/mld-412-greater-boston-advanced-applied-field-lab)
- [ Student Projects Library ](/page-type-library/student-projects-library)
- [ Housing, Zoning, Land Use and Urban Development ](/policy-areas/housing-zoning-land-use-and-urban-development)
- [ 2024 ](/year/2024)