Summary of Bill S 2617: An Act Granting the City of Worcester the Authority to Require the Adoption of Institutional Master Plans

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 2617 aims to empower the city of Worcester, Massachusetts, to adopt local ordinances that require the development of Institutional Master Plans (IMPs) for large-scale institutional facilities. This legislation is designed to facilitate and regulate the growth of institutions such as hospitals, colleges, and non-profit educational organizations within the city, ensuring that their development aligns with community needs and standards.

Key Provisions

1. Authority to Adopt Local Ordinances:

   • The bill allows Worcester to create general or zoning ordinances that promote the development of large-scale institutional facilities.
   • It specifically authorizes the city to require the adoption of Institutional Master Plans.

2. Definition of Institutional Master Plans:

   • An Institutional Master Plan is defined as a comprehensive land-use and development plan for land owned or used by an institution.
   • The plan must outline both existing and future growth and development of the institution, ensuring that potential impacts on the community are addressed through public review.

3. Regulatory Framework:

   • Worcester can impose a review process for Institutional Master Plans, regulating the use of land or structures occupied by institutions such as hospitals, healthcare facilities, colleges, and universities.
   • Institutions existing at the time of the ordinance's adoption must apply for a special permit within 120 days.
   • Special permits granted may have a duration of 10 years, after which they must be renewed.

Affected Parties

• Institutions: Hospitals, colleges, universities, and non-profit educational corporations will be directly impacted as they will be required to develop and submit Institutional Master Plans.
• City of Worcester: The city will gain enhanced regulatory authority over institutional developments, allowing for better planning and community engagement.
• Local Community: Residents and stakeholders in Worcester will benefit from a structured approach to institutional growth, ensuring that development aligns with community interests and needs.

Procedural Aspects

• Introduced: September 25, 2025
• Committee Actions: The bill was reported favorably by the committee on November 13, 2025, and is scheduled for consideration in the next session.
• Public Hearing: A hearing was held on October 14, 2025, allowing for written testimony from interested parties.
• House Concurrence: The House of Representatives concurred with the bill on September 29, 2025.

Conclusion

Bill S 2617 represents a significant step towards enhancing local governance in Worcester by providing the city with the authority to regulate institutional development through the adoption of Institutional Master Plans. This legislation aims to balance institutional growth with community interests, ensuring that development is sustainable and beneficial for all stakeholders involved.