Summary
Salem is drafting zoning changes to allow mixed-use buildings — ground-floor commercial with up to four stories and 60 feet of height, modeled on Depot & Main. The public hearing is postponed until state legislation shakes out, so residents will get a chance to weigh in later.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 28, 2026.
Impact analysis
Supporters and opponents alike tied it to potential tax burden and traffic impacts along Route 28.
Could open the door to more mixed-use development and housing options in commercial areas.
Residents worried about Route 28 traffic and taxes see the change as expanding density without local control.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Town Council - Sep 28, 2026
State law forces Salem to allow multi-family housing in commercial zones, and the Council adopted its own ordinance implementing it — with a tweak so lobbies can't count as commercial space. Expect debate over Route 28 development to continue.
Planning Board (Regular) - Jun 23, 2026
Salem is drafting zoning changes to allow mixed-use buildings — ground-floor commercial with up to four stories and 60 feet of height, modeled on Depot & Main. The public hearing is postponed until state legislation shakes out, so residents will get a chance to weigh in later.
We'll email you when it's on an upcoming agenda and when it's voted on, at most once a day.
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