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HD 692

An Act to provide for housing within the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr and 1 co-sponsor

Bill authorizes residential housing construction in Martha's Vineyard state forest to address local housing shortages, trading environmental protection for residential development capacity.

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Bill Summary · HD 692

Legislative bill overview

HD 692 proposes allowing residential housing development within the Manuel F. Correllus State Forest on Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. The bill would authorize construction of homes on state forest land, representing a significant change in how this protected environmental area is managed and used.

Why is this important

Housing costs on Martha's Vineyard are among the highest in Massachusetts, making year-round residency increasingly unaffordable for working residents and families. Utilizing state forest land could potentially increase the housing supply on the island, though it directly conflicts with traditional conservation purposes of state forests, which typically prioritize environmental protection and public recreation.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental impact: State forests are designated to protect natural ecosystems, wildlife habitat, and water resources; residential development would permanently alter these functions and could fragment critical habitats
  • Public access and recreation: Development may reduce or eliminate public access to forest trails, recreational areas, and open spaces that residents currently use
  • Precedent concerns: Allowing residential use of state forests could encourage similar proposals elsewhere, fundamentally changing the purpose of protected state lands across Massachusetts
  • Alternative solutions: Critics may argue this represents an end-run around zoning restrictions and local land-use authority rather than addressing root causes of housing affordability

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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