Chair Bernard Greene
Brookline Select Board
333 Washington St, 
Brookline, MA 02445

Feb. 9 2025

Dear Chair Greene,

As your neighboring chamber representing Newton and adjacent communities, we’ve been closely following the town’s effort to rezone the Chestnut Hill Commercial Area.

While the benefits of this proposal to Brookline’s tax base are clear, the rezoning and subsequent development will also have a positive impact on the region’s economic vitality and urge the board to support the zoning change. 

High housing costs and limited availability continue to push workers further and further out, making it increasingly difficult for young professionals and workers to live closer to their jobs, while only adding to traffic congestion as commutes grow longer. This rezoning and subsequent development will provide housing for both Newton and Brookline’s workforce.

Additionally, the planned retail and office development will further strengthen Chestnut Hill’s role as a regional destination and benefit all adjacent businesses.

We strongly urge the Select Board to support rezoning the Chestnut Hill Commercial Area to strengthen the regional economy, support local businesses, and address our shared housing challenges.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Greg Reibman

President & CEO 

Charles River Chamber

117 Kendrick St., Suite 300, Needham, MA 02494