Boston Housing Starts Reach $1.65 Billion

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh announced Monday the city has reached $1.65 billion in housing starts as of June 2015, marking a significant milestone in regards to citywide housing development. This year’s mark indicates a 138 percent increase over the $692 million in housing starts in June of 2014.

The number of permitted housing units in 2015 took a 40 percent jump in comparison to 2014. 2,641 units were permitted so far this year as opposed to 1,759 units in 2014. The increase also symbolizes a three-year high, considering only 1,333 housing units were permitted by June of 2013.

“I am extremely pleased by the efforts that have taken place across City agencies to ensure that we are able to meet our housing goals,” said Mayor Walsh. “The only way that we will be able to sustain the growth of our city, and our workforce, is by staying focused on our goals and streamlining our processes.”

The rapid increase in development can be attributed to the city’s Inspectional Services Department. According to Walsh, they’ve streamlined the permitting processes, allowing for more housing developments in a shorter amount of time. The changes have allowed the department to process permits at twice the speed.

“I am extremely proud of the great work my department has been able to accomplish,” said ISD Commissioner William Christopher. “This task could not have been accomplished without the leadership of Mayor Walsh and the technology expertise of DoIt. Together we have not only streamlined the permitting process, but also help pave the way for the production of rental units throughout the city.”

Mayor Walsh has a goal of producing 53,000 new units of housing by 2030.