What does a Community Master Plan contain?

The plan contains the following sections, according to the requirements set out by Massachusetts General Laws for a comprehensive (master) plan. 

  • Community Vision and Goals and Policies Statements. This first section calls for a goals and policies statement. It requires each community to clarify values, create goals and identify patterns of development that will be consistent with these goals.
  • Land Use
  • Housing
  • Economic Development
  • Natural, Cultural and Historic Resources
  • Open Space and Recreation
  • Public Services and Facilities
  • Transportation
  • Energy and Sustainability
  • Implementation Plan. This final section outlines the recommended actions, schedule, responsible parties, and notes funding sources for the specific actions necessary to achieve the objectives of each element above.