Mayor Joe Petty on Worcester Housing, Stretch Code, and Local Policy Debates

“We want housing built… we have to build a thousand units a year to meet Worcester’s needs. It’s about jobs. It’s about housing.” – Mayor Joseph Petty

By-Hank Stolz
Photo- Kill the Ball Media

Worcester, MA- Worcester Mayor Joe Petty joined Talk of the Commonwealth with Hank Stolz to discuss a series of pressing local issues, led by the future of the city’s specialized stretch energy code and its impact on housing development.

Petty indicated he is leaning toward pausing the code, citing concerns over rising construction costs and Worcester’s ability to remain competitive with other gateway cities. According to the Mayor, the added expense—ranging from $100,000 to as much as $1 million per project—has created barriers for developers at a time when the city urgently needs new housing.

He emphasized that Worcester must significantly increase its housing production to keep pace with demand.

“We want housing built,” Petty said, noting that the city needs to produce at least 1,000 new units annually over the next decade to meet population growth and long-term needs.

While acknowledging the importance of environmental protections, Petty stressed the need for balance—ensuring that regulations do not unintentionally slow development, reduce job opportunities, or push investment elsewhere.

The conversation also touched on the ongoing debate around allowing residents to raise chickens. Petty urged caution, referencing concerns outlined in a recent report, including the potential to attract predators such as bears and coyotes, as well as public health risks tied to disease.

The discussion reflects a broader challenge facing Worcester: balancing growth, sustainability, and quality of life as the city continues to evolve.