**Massachusetts Auctions Surplus Land for Housing Development**
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has completed the auction of five parcels of surplus land, marking a significant step in the State Land for Homes initiative. Facilitated by JJ Manning Auctioneers, the auction raised $2.9 million and set the stage for new housing developments on previously underutilized state-owned properties in Wilmington, Westborough, Northborough, Templeton, and Phillipston.
This initiative is part of Massachusetts’ broader strategy to address the housing shortage by repurposing surplus state land for residential development. Governor Maura Healey emphasized the importance of the effort, stating, “This auction is an important milestone in our efforts to make state-owned land available for housing development, so we can get more reasonably priced homes built more quickly in this state.”
Looking ahead, the state is currently accepting bids for properties in Bedford, Bridgewater, Fitchburg, and Lowell. Meanwhile, the Boston Business Journal notes that some of the greatest opportunities for housing redevelopment may be in Boston itself. Key sites with potential include the adjoining Hurley and Lindemann buildings in the West End and a section of the former Boston State Hospital site in Mattapan.
This wave of land auctions represents a proactive approach by the Healey administration to leverage public assets in the fight against the housing crisis, opening the door to new developments and more affordable living opportunities across the Commonwealth.
