Massachusetts explores Joint Base Cape Cod for housing development to tackle shortage

Massachusetts officials are considering using 7,000 acres of Joint Base Cape Cod to address the state's housing shortage. The area, known as the "Cantonment Area," is primarily state-owned and currently supports military training facilities. MassDevelopment plans to hire a consultant for a two-year process to create a master plan for the site. The goals include facilitating housing production and economic development while supporting ongoing military operations. The base is the largest military training installation in New England, housing multiple military commands. Officials aim to balance community housing needs with military requirements, following a 2014 law that allows for the development of surplus property at the base.