School-Centered Neighborhood Development Gains Momentum

School-Centered Neighborhood Development Gains Momentum

United Way of Greater New Bedford is working with local partners and MassINC to advance a shared vision for stronger communities through School-Centered Neighborhood Development. Together, a playbook has been developed that outlines how aligning housing, education, and community development strategies can create thriving, mixed-income neighborhoods anchored by excellent schools.

This approach is gaining real traction. Three bills supporting School-Centered Neighborhood Development are now under consideration by the Massachusetts Legislature, a promising step toward broader adoption across the Commonwealth.

In March, UWGNB hosted a Legislative Tour in partnership with MassINC and the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Business, chaired by Andy Vargas and Adam Gomez. The visit, coordinated with Andrew O’Leary, NBPS Superintendent, and Josh Amaral, City of New Bedford Director of Housing and Community Development, showcased how New Bedford is putting these ideas into action.

Approximately 45 participants including Mayor Jon Mitchell, Senator Mark Montigny, Representatives Tony Cabral, Christopher Markey, and Mark Sylvia, joined local leaders, funders, and community partners for a tour of the Congdon-DeValles Elementary School construction site.

The group then gathered at the United Way office for a facilitated discussion over lunch. Mayor Mitchell opened the conversation with a strong vision for the city’s future, followed by insights from local leadership on how coordinated investments in schools and neighborhoods can drive long-term success. Representative Vargas engaged deeply in the discussion, asking thoughtful questions and expressing strong interest in continued collaboration with the City of New Bedford.

This work reflects a growing recognition that schools and neighborhoods succeed together. By aligning systems and investments, School-Centered Neighborhood Development offers a powerful pathway to stronger communities.