CPA Enhances State Regionalization Goals

Jan. 17, 2014: Even though CPA is adopted and implemented on the local level by individual municipalities, its project don't always have to stay within town lines. In fact, the state encourages towns to consider regionalization of CPA projects -- from recreational facilities to libraries. 

The emphasis on regional projects is contained in Section 5(b)(1) of the Community Preservation Act legislation, which reads:

"The community preservation committee shall study the needs, possibilities and resources of the city or town regarding community preservation, including the consideration of regional projects for community preservation. The committee shall consult with existing municipal boards, including the conservation commission, the historical commission, the planning board, the board of park commissioners and the housing authority, or persons acting in those capacities or performing like duties, in conducting such studies." 

Most notably, communities on Martha's Vineyard have pursued a number of regional projects which boast widespread benefits to residents across the island. From the creation of atheletic fields to the relocation of a historic lighthouse, a recent article discusses Martha's Vineyard's efforts to harness CPA funds from mulitiple communities in order to complete these large-scale regional projects.

Read more: Regional Projects Are a Trend in CPA Funding This Year