America's Hometown Faces Modern Housing Crisis
Known across the nation as 'America's hometown', Plymouth, Massachusetts finds itself grappling with a contemporary dilemma that threatens its community fabric. This coastal settlement, celebrated as the birthplace of Thanksgiving, has evolved into a highly desirable coastal sanctuary within greater Boston's orbit, serving as the gateway to Cape Cod's celebrity-frequented beaches.
While Plymouth's historical significance and scenic beauty continue to attract visitors and new residents alike, one essential element grows increasingly scarce: affordable housing for ordinary residents.
The Affordable Housing Debate Intensifies
The average listing price for homes in Plymouth has reached $749,500, creating significant barriers for local residents seeking to remain in their community. The debate centres on whether Massachusetts' Chapter 40B programme effectively addresses this crisis or exacerbates local tensions.
Plymouth's Select Board – the town's executive branch – reveals that the community has constructed more than 4,500 housing units over the past eight years. However, board members describe a new proposed development as feeling like a 'hostile takeover'.
The controversial project, put forward by Pulte Homes, would add 163 condos across two lots covering less than 10 acres in what officials describe as an already congested North Plymouth neighbourhood. This development would contribute to the over 1,000 units recently constructed or approved through Chapter 40B, a state initiative designed to expand affordable housing throughout Massachusetts.
Local Incomes Clash with Regional Pricing
Select Board member Deb Iaquinto states unequivocally that 'Plymouth desperately needs truly affordable housing', but argues that recent Chapter 40B proposals fail to deliver what the community genuinely requires.
The core issue lies in how 'affordability' gets calculated. Under Massachusetts' Chapter 40B regulations, developers who designate 20-25 percent of units as affordable can bypass local zoning restrictions. However, the affordable prices are determined using greater Boston income levels, which substantially exceed what most Plymouth residents earn.
'As a result, rents for these units in Plymouth actually are as much (sometimes more than) market rate units,' Iaquinto explained, highlighting the programme's fundamental flaw for local residents.
She emphasises that the community isn't opposed to density in principle, stating: 'We're not opposed to density, as long as it's in a location that has the infrastructure to support it and it complements the neighbourhood. Good design is all it takes!'
Plymouth's transformation from its 1620 origins as the English Pilgrims' settlement continues accelerating. The town, Massachusetts' largest by land area requiring up to 40 minutes to drive across, has evolved from its blue-collar summer town roots where downtown restaurants often couldn't sustain year-round operation.
Journalist Peter Zheutlin, who relocated to Plymouth last year, previously considered the town 'flyover country' – merely transit territory between Boston and Cape Cod. He observes rapid changes driven by substantial new communities like Pine Hills and Redbrook, attracting wealthier retirees and empty nesters.
This influx reshapes a community historically grounded in rope-making, fishing, and shipping industries. Zheutlin recognises Plymouth's considerable potential, citing breathtaking waterfront views featuring whales and dolphins, a philharmonic orchestra, a vibrant arts centre, and an improving dining scene, while acknowledging some waterfront properties remain dilapidated.
He ponders whether Plymouth stands 'on the edge of becoming the next Portland or Portsmouth?' suggesting it might be heading in that direction. This convergence of promise and challenge – of affluent newcomers and established working-class residents – fuels the current housing tensions gripping America's legendary hometown.
