Newsroom

During the development of the Regional Housing Strategy, stakeholders expressed the need to simplify the permitting process, where possible. In response, the Strategy includes recommendations to make permitting for housing development and redevelopment more predictable and streamlined, especially in locally- and regionally-identified suitable locations. One strategy is the creation of a catalog of model housing plans for small-scale housing types, which could be pre-approved or pre-reviewed at the local level—creating a more predictable process that saves both time and money for developers and reflects the priorities of a community as it relates to housing type and design. 

A new study conducted by the Cape Cod Commission focuses on the entrance and exit ramp intersections of the region's highway system, seeking to identify the highest crash intersections to better prioritize improvements and enhance roadway safety. 

As Cape Cod towns work to address challenges related to affordable housing, climate and coastal resiliency, and economic stability, a Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP) can serve as a blueprint for a sustainable future. LCPs help communities navigate change while protecting the Cape's defining character and resources.  

Falmouth Digital Equity Community Workshop
Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Hermann Meeting Room, Falmouth Public Library
300 Main Street, Falmouth, MA 02540

During a meeting held on November 18, 2024, the Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) released the Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2025-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Amendment 2 for a 21-day public review and comment period. A copy of the document may be downloaded at www.capecodcommission.org/mpo.  

During a meeting held on October 21, 2024, the Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) released the Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2025-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Amendment 1 for a 21-day public review and comment period.  

This Regulatory Update provides a status on projects currently under review by the Cape Cod Commission. Visit www.capecodcommission.org/regulatory for a full overview of our Regulatory program and answers to frequently asked questions.   

Cape Cod’s housing crisis requires bold action to implement creative and collaborative solutions. One approach being explored is the creation of a housing land bank and community land trust to help address the region’s housing needs.   

Since its launch in 2022, the Cape Cod Commission’s Freshwater Initiative has made significant strides. This science-based, information-driven planning process is designed to promote actionable steps to protect and restore Cape Cod’s freshwater resources. Commission staff is set to finalize a draft strategy, outlining recommendations and implementation plans, later this calendar year. While efforts such as the Regional Pond Monitoring Program and remote sensing project will continue, data and findings inform articulation of the region’s freshwater challenges, as well as recommendations and priorities. The strategy will be complemented by resources to support implementation, such as a water quality data portal and pond buffer guidelines, both of which are currently in development.  

The Cape Cod Commission has launched its review of the 2018 Regional Policy Plan (RPP), a document that provides regional planning policies and objectives to guide development and protect the region’s resources. The Regional Policy Plan serves as a blueprint for Cape Cod's future, outlining strategies to manage growth, protect natural resources, and promote economic resilience.