Boston is easing its ban on most kinds of construction, allowing some work to resume under new requirements that resemble rules set by the state, according to www.wbur.org.
Many housing projects and other developments the state considers essential have been stalled for weeks in Boston as the city took stricter measures against COVID-19. Although that will gradually change this month, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said May 6 at a news conference that Boston’s relaxation is not a full-scale reopening.
“All active work is still currently limited to essential projects only,” Walsh said. “All of these sites have been required to provide safety plans, a signed affidavit to the city of Boston confirming that the safety plan will be followed.”
Safety plans must include strategies to maintain 6 feet between workers on job sites and adequate supplies of personal protective equipment. Developers of projects with approved safety plans can immediately begin preparing job sites. Any project the state deems nonessential still will be banned in Boston.
Starting May 18, work can begin on public schools, roads and residential buildings with three or fewer units, among other select categories. The city previously had allowed emergency construction work, such as utility repairs, to continue.
On May 26, all projects the state categorizes as essential can resume.
