Our Mission

The Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD) is committed to improving the quality of life for Arlington's residents by improving access to housing and transportation, enhancing the vitality of business districts, providing opportunities for low- and moderate-income households, and preserving and promoting the town's natural, historic, and cultural resources. The department oversees various planning and community development activities within the town of Arlington including implementation of the Arlington Master Plan. Staff support a range of Town boards and committees, including the Arlington Redevelopment Board and manage three redevelopment properties: Jefferson Cutter House, Central School (Senior Center), and 23 Maple Street. 

Remote Operations During COVID-19 Response

In response to the COVID 19-related State of Emergency, the Department of Planning and Community Development has transitioned to remote operations. We will be checking our voice mail and e-mail messages regularly, and we are responding as soon as practicable. Due to the volume of calls and e-mail we expect to receive, we ask that you bear with us as we work through this unprecedented event. Staff can be reached via email or by contacting their direct extension as noted in the staff listing below.

In accordance with Chapter 53 of the acts of 2020, An Act to Address Challenges Faced by Municipalities and State Authorities Resulting from COVID-19, signed on April 3, 2020, specifically Section 17 regarding permitting, reviews, and meetings, the Department is transitioning to accepting all applications and application materials electronically. We will continue to process Special Permit applications and applications for the Conservation Commission electronically by email to the Board or Commission administrator.

Regarding other committees and working groups coordinated by the Department, please contact the staff liaison and check the Town calendar and Department page for updates on virtual meetings. All long-range planning activities will continue, including but not limited to the Sustainable Transportation Plan, the Net Zero Plan, the Fair Housing Action Plan, development of Design Review guidelines, the economic analysis of industrial zones, and the Battle Road Scenic Byway Management Plan update. Engagement on housing and economic development topics will be launching soon. All public engagement processes are being re-imagined to continue to gain input and have dialogues about plans in progress. Any upcoming virtual meeting opportunities will be posted on the Town’s website and shared via multiple media channels.

Staff Contacts

Menotomy Weatherization Assistance Program

The Menotomy Weatherization Assistance Program is no longer operating. If you were a client of the Menotomy Weatherization Assistance Program and need assistance related to weatherization, heating system repairs or replacements, or appliance management assessments, please contact CAPIC at 617-884-6130 extension 1.