Somernova Files Climate and Equity Innovation Overlay District
Today, we are excited to announce that we have filed a Zoning Text Amendment application and Zoning Map Amendment application for the first of its kind Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District with the Clerk's Office at the City of Somerville. This zoning application is the first of its kind and will support Somernova’s and more importantly Somerville’s growth as an innovation hub for climate and tough tech leaders.
The proposed Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District aims to address the most critical issues in Somerville and perhaps the planet. The new zoning will allow companies currently incubating in Greentown Labs and in Somernova's innovation hub to grow into their next level space and eventually company headquarters, R&D, light manufacturing, etc. The new zoning will also link the growing climate tech ecosystem with direct benefits to the community by delivering a state-of-the-art 25k s.f. community center, green open space, and a social impact fund designed to support equitable pathways to jobs, small businesses, and other opportunities to be defined in line with the changing needs of the community.
Somernova has been working with community stakeholders, City Councilors and the City of Somerville to create a Climate & Equity Innovation Sub-Area Overlay District. The proposed zoning overlay district will preserve and foster social and community connection between our climate tech entrepreneurs, residents, and the community at large.
Thank you to all community members who offered their input and support and joined our many community meetings over the past five years. We look forward to working in further collaboration with the Somerville community as we continue this process.
