The Great Housing Divide: Why Western Mass Lags in Embracing In-Law Units

In the bustling towns of Greater Boston, a quiet revolution is taking place, transforming backyards and basements into crucial components of the housing solution. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), affectionately known as in-law apartments, are finally gaining traction, spurred by a new state law designed to simplify their creation.

Yet, a striking contrast emerges when we look west: Western Massachusetts communities, despite facing their own acute housing shortages, are proving stubbornly slow to adopt this promising approach.

Chapter 494 of the Acts of 2020, heralded as a game-changer, aimed to streamline the approval process for ADUs, allowing towns to greenlight them with a simple majority vote rather than the previously required two-thirds.

This legislative push was meant to unlock a wave of affordable, flexible housing options across the Bay State. And in many municipalities, particularly those grappling with sky-high housing costs and limited space, it's working. Cities and towns are updating their zoning bylaws, with several, like Cambridge and Arlington, seeing significant interest and applications for new units.

But the story in Western Massachusetts is different.

While the eastern parts of the state see a surge in inquiries and proposed changes, many towns west of Worcester remain hesitant, with some not even having the topic on their radar. This isn't just a minor discrepancy; it's a significant roadblock in addressing the region's housing crisis. Why the disconnect? Part of the challenge lies in local familiarity—or lack thereof—with the new regulations.

Many planning boards and town officials are still navigating the nuances of the updated zoning requirements, leading to inertia.

Community resistance and a pervasive ‘not in my backyard’ (NIMBY) sentiment also play a role. Concerns about increased traffic, school enrollment, and neighborhood character, though often unfounded given the typically small scale of ADUs, can halt progress.

Furthermore, the perceived costs of construction, coupled with a lack of clear guidance or accessible resources for homeowners, contribute to the reluctance. Organizations like the Citizens' Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA) are stepping up, offering model bylaws and educational materials, but the message isn't always reaching those who need it most in the smaller, more rural communities of Western Mass.

However, there are glimmers of hope.

Trailblazers like Great Barrington have demonstrated early success, having permitted numerous ADUs even before the new state law, proving that with political will and community engagement, it is possible. Other communities, such as Greenfield, Northampton, and Amherst, are beginning to explore or formally adopt ADU-friendly bylaws, recognizing the immense potential.

These units aren't just about increasing housing stock; they offer flexible living arrangements for multi-generational families, provide income opportunities for homeowners, and allow seniors to age in place within their communities.

The benefits are clear: ADUs offer a relatively low-impact way to add housing diversity, increase affordability, and support community resilience.

They represent a pragmatic solution to a complex problem. The challenge now lies in bridging the awareness gap, overcoming local resistance, and empowering Western Massachusetts communities with the tools and information they need to unlock this vital housing resource. It’s time for the region to catch up, embrace the future of flexible housing, and ensure that every Bay State resident has access to a safe, affordable place to call home.