Boston’s new planning department is open for business, marking the first time in 70 years that the city has had a planning department. 

Mayor Michelle Wu announced the return of planning as a core function of city government in April.

The planning department replaces several functions of the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA).

According to the mayor’s office, the majority of the BPDA’s staff transitioned to the new department as city of Boston employees. 

Wu says establishing the department is a major piece of her vision to transform Boston’s planning and development while complementing other city-wide initiatives.

“Our goal to make Boston a green and growing city depends on planning together for our brightest future,” said Wu. “With our new planning department, we will be able to unlock a future for our city that truly centers Bostonians’ needs and brings communities together in making Boston home for generations to come.”

House planning, zoning, development review, urban design and real estate staff were all transitioned to the new department led by Boston’s planning chief Arthur Jemison. 

The current BPDA will continue to serve as the city’s planning board and will approve or reject development projects.

Since taking office, Wu has sought to abolish the agency. In 2023, she promised major changes to the BPDA and in her 2024 State of the City Address, she reiterated those plans. She filed the ordinance to move the BPDA to city hall in January and the Boston City Council voted to create the new department in April. 

“I’m glad we could see the Mayor’s vision through and create a planning department for the city of Boston,” said Jemison. “This was a tremendous effort led by dedicated and determined staff who focused on every detail to support our employees through this transition. I am excited to launch this new department, which will shape the future of our great city and ensure it is planned equitably, for years to come.”