Governor Healey Signs Bills to Expedite Housing Development and Library Branch in Dorchester

Governor Healey Signs Bills to Expedite Housing Development and Library Branch in Dorchester  

BOSTON – Governor Maura Healey held a ceremonial signing for a bill sponsored by Senator Nick Collins and Representative Chris Worrell that will expedite housing development in Dorchester. Governor Healey signed H.4532 An Act relative to certain affordable housing and branch library space in the Dorchester section of the city of Boston into law on October 8, 2025. The bill authorizes an exemption that will allow the Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) to redevelop a parcel of land in Uphams Corner in Dorchester as affordable housing. This development will also include a branch of the Boston Public Library.   

“I’m proud to sign this bill that will pave the way for urgently needed housing and a new library branch in Dorchester,” said Governor Healey. “I’m grateful for the strong leadership of Senator Collins, Representative Worrell and the City of Boston to secure this win that will benefit all residents of the Dorchester neighborhood and beyond.” 

“Today marks a milestone for the Uphams Corner Branch Library,” said Senator Nick Collins.  

“This project reflects a long commitment to education and strengthens our public library system by upgrading a branch that will serve residents in their neighborhood for years to come. Special thanks to the Friends of the Upham's Corner Branch Library, Upham's Corner Main Streets, the Cape Verdean Association of Boston, and the Hancock Street Civic Association for their advocacy throughout. Thank you also to Rep. Chris Worrell, the Mayor’s Office, the Boston City Council, Boston Public Library President David Leonard, the team at Civico, and most importantly Governor Maura Healey for making this a reality.” 

“Today represents the close collaboration between City and State government working together to deliver for our communities,” said Representative Chris Worrell. “The creation of both a renovated Upham’s Corner Branch Library and new housing is a win-win for Dorchester and the entire city.”