Bridgewater's Vision to Reality: Let’s Talk Zoning and Form-Based Code

In our previous issues of Let’s Talk, we have discussed housing and the requirements of the MBTA Communities legislation in meeting state-imposed housing production numbers. Rather than viewing these requirements as a burden, we see them as an opportunity. Like many communities both in the Commonwealth and outside the state, zoning ordinances have become outdated and require updates and amendments. In implementing the goals and objectives articulated in the 2022 Comprehensive Master Plan, whether that be land use, transportation, housing, economic development, preservation of open space or natural resources; these can be achieved through zoning amendments.

An important element of the proposed zoning amendments for Bridgewater’s Central Business District is the adoption of a concept called form-based code. Form-based code is an effective tool that benefits the community, property owners and future developers.  

Let’s start with WHAT A FORM-BASED CODE IS NOT:

 It is not uncommon for people to confuse a form-based code (the tool) with the sorts of development it is often used to regulate (the result). While form-based codes can be used in relation to higher density, mixed use, main street type projects, that is not an inherent result of a form-based approach; the tool could just as easily be used to regulate low density, sprawl-type development. 

The type of development embedded in the code is determined by a community’s vision, not the format of the code itself. The strategic advantage of a form-based code is that it ties the policy goals of the Town to the specific types of development that are most desirable to the community. For instance, the Town of Bridgewater Comprehensive Master Plan has identified increased housing choice, decreased auto dependence, and protection of natural and open space as policy priorities. There are many different ways to accomplish those policy goals, but a form-based code—and the process used to produce it—can help codify the physical form that will both accomplish those goals and preserve the built character of Bridgewater. While there will justifiably be concerns about issues including increased infrastructure needs, traffic, and parking demand, it is important to realize that these are challenges of any type of new development, not as challenges of a form-based code.