FALMOUTH – The Cape Cod Commission presented its Draft Regional Policy Plan to Falmouth selectmen last month.
The plan seeks address both economic and environmental progress.
Commission Executive Director Kristi Senatori said the plan will address housing needs, protect natural resources, promote regional capital and infrastructure planning, ease local comprehensive planning, and preserve the uniqueness of Cape Cod.
“This isn’t a one size fits all approach,” said Senatori. “It’s a very unique approach to systems and looking at the Cape as a unique set of systems rather than parcel specific regulation.”
The plan also recognizes the effects climate change and rising sea levels can have on the Cape, discussing regional housing strategies and goals based on the need for affordable housing options for Cape Cod residents.
“Really those goals are conserving our natural areas, conserving our coastal resources, obviously protecting our water and natural resources while at the same time balancing economic growth and providing adequate capital facilities. We need to coordinate those capital facilities with our regional goals, developing a fair and affordable housing supply and then preserving our historic and cultural resources,” Senatori explained.
The commission is also expected to provide a growth policy, which Senatori says should be located in centers of activity.
“Into areas that are supported by adequate infrastructure and guided away from areas that need to be protected for a variety of reasons. The development should be responsive to context, allowing for the restoration, preservation, and protection of the Cape’s unique resources, while at the same time promoting economic stability and community resilience,” she said.
The Cape Cod Commission is accepting public comment on the plan until November 19. Comments can be sent via email to [email protected].
By TIM DUNN, CapeCod.com News Center
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