Boston Launches New Planning Department to Replace BPDA 

Mayor Michelle Wu has launched a new planning department to replace the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA), aiming to expedite its dissolution. This marks Boston’s first dedicated planning department in 70 years. The new department, announced Monday, will handle planning, zoning, development review, urban design, and real estate. Wu emphasized the goal of planning collaboratively for Boston’s future. 

The BPDA board will continue as the city’s planning board during the transition, with efforts underway to streamline the development review process. Wu, who campaigned on abolishing the BPDA, has gradually enacted changes to make this possible. Despite concerns about job security and pay structures, the majority of BPDA staff will transition to the new department. Specific job cuts have not been detailed.