New Support Announced for TDI Districts in Gateway Cities

On May 1, the Baker-Polito Administration announced the selection of 10 Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) Districts in MassDevelopment’s second round of the program, which is designed to accelerate economic growth within focused districts in Gateway Cities. This initiative provides substantial technical assistance and support for urban revitalization.

This round includes four new districts in Chelsea, Fitchburg, Lawrence, and Worcester; and the extension of existing TDI districts in Brockton, Holyoke, Lynn, New Bedford, Pittsfield, and Springfield. The four new districts will gain TDI Fellows, who will provide economic development expertise and collaborative leadership in these cities. The new fellows will join established fellows in existing districts. All districts will be eligible for grants and real estate investments.

“Through targeted state investments and the support of local leadership, the Transformative Development Initiative helps communities support long-term, sustainable growth and tackle broad challenges,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “The resources we are announcing today will extend support to exciting new economic development projects across the Commonwealth.”

MassDevelopment will also offer benefits to six applicant cities that did not receive a full TDI District designation. Chicopee and Fall River will receive one-year directed strategic assistance and partnership building support to advance their district visions, after which each city may be eligible for a two-year follow-on term with a dedicated TDI Fellow. MassDevelopment also designated four “TDI Affiliates”: Haverhill, Peabody, and Revere – three current districts whose three-year designation is ending – and a new district in Salem. These cities will have access to peer-to-peer learning opportunities, workshops, and other designated assistance. MassDevelopment’s traditional real estate services, which help municipalities and other public entities address planning and development projects, and regional teams remain available for all Gateway Cities.

MassDevelopment’s TDI program works with public-private partnerships to engage community members, implement local economic development initiatives, and spur further public and private investment. In TDI’s first three years, MassDevelopment has invested $9 million in the TDI Districts through tools such as technical assistance, real estate investments, grant programs, and fellows who work in the districts.

To learn more about this program:

https://www.massdevelopment.com/what-we-offer/key-initiatives/gateway-cities/