In 2018, the City worked to identify opportunities to grow the commercial tax base, to enhance existing village centers and commercial corridors, and to build on the momentum of the regional economy. The resulting action plan was prepared through a collaborative effort, combining data collection, stakeholder interviews, public engagement, and market research. 

The Economic Development Action Plan for the City of Newton, completed in January 2019 with the assistance of the consulting firm Camoin Associates, identified these key issues:

1. The City is essentially fully built out. Limited parcels are available for new development. To grow the commercial tax base, it will be essential to look for opportunities in the villages and commercial corridors.
2. To support commercial development, it will be necessary to make transportation improvements and to increase both the number and types of residential units to attract and retain a more diverse population.
3. Improvements in the development review process to make it more predictable and efficient will be critical to attracting more development.

The Report

Download report sections below, or download the full document.

Executive Summary

A description of the work completed outlined by 2019 goals, plus an overview of findings related to Newton's demographics, economic base, and real estate market segments. (4 pages)

Opportunities and Challenges

A brief overview of Newton's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT), including a description of market constraints, the tax base, and themes that emerged from this analysis. (7 pages)

Action Plan

Comprehensive strategies to grow Newton’s tax base, livability, and support for small businesses, including zoning updates, redevelopment of key corridors, expansion of lab and office space. (19 pages)

Appendices

A. Action Plan Matrix

A table mapping Newton’s development goals with specific actions, lead partners, and resources. Measures of success and timelines serve as the roadmap. (6 pages)

B. Economic Plan

Initiatives for marketing, expanding commercial space, and supporting small businesses, with budgeting and steps for short- and long-term infrastructure improvements. (3 pages)

C. Economic Base

Analysis of Newton's population, workforce, and industries. Highlights job growth in health care and professional services, and housing and tax challenges. (40 pages)

D. Real Estate Market

Evaluation of office, lab, medical, industrial, retail, hotel, and housing sectors, noting office vacancies, limited industrial growth, and boutique hotel potential. (16 pages)

E. City Capacity

Assessment of city operations, permitting, and infrastructure, identifying ways to improve efficiency, expand transportation, and sustainable growth. (10 pages)

F. Retail Strategy Research

Recommendations to address rising rents and competition for small businesses, including zoning reforms and stronger real estate connections. (5 pages)

G. Acknowledgements

Recognition of Newton officials, business leaders, nonprofits, and residents who shaped the strategy through the EDC, interviews, and public meetings. (2 pages)

► Contact us

Call or text John Sisson, (617) 831-0101, or email him. John serves as ombudsman for both existing businesses and those considering a location in the Garden City.

City staff across departments are here to help. Contact Us.