Billerica Planning Board Opens First MBTA Communities Multifamily Housing Review

BILLERICA -- December 8, 2025, Billerica Planning Board opens review of 255-unit complex, its first MBTA Communities application. The board heard an opening presentation Monday from JLB Realty LLC on a proposal to demolish two vacant 1980s office buildings at 1 and 2 Federal Street and replace them with two three-story residential buildings totaling 255 units, including 26 affordable units after board members pressed for an increase from the initially proposed 25. Developer Mark Sec told the board annual property tax revenue would more than double to over $1 million on the currently vacant parcels. Billerica Housing Authority Executive Director Bob Carrenti cited a Q4 2025 wait list of 28,121 applicants seeking affordable housing, calling the project "a giant step forward." Member David Robertson pushed back on parking placed in front of building facades, calling it contrary to MBTA Communities design intent and asking for a redesign before the continued hearing January 13. The board also unanimously approved a site plan special permit for a reduced 147,400-square-foot warehouse at 161 Concord Road, and continued a mixed-use cafe permit hearing for 409 Boston Road to January 13 pending department reviews.