A YES for the CBA Is a YES for Jobs, Arts, and Innovation

CBA VOTING FACTS

Over the last two years the Union Square Neighborhood Council (USNC) & Rafi Properties have worked to negotiate a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) for the neighborhood as part of Somernova’s campus expansion. This historic agreement between Rafi & Union Square Neighborhood Council represents a transformative vision for inclusive innovation, job creation, arts and culture, sustainability, and equitable economic development in Somerville. It ensures that Somernova’s expansion delivers a range of lasting benefits to Somerville residents and Somernova tenants.

It includes over 100,000 SF for the arts (new independent music venues, new affordable music rehearsal studios, new art galleries & artist studios). As well as Somerville’s 1st private development Project Labor Agreement to ensure fair wages, workers’ rights, and equitable labor practices, a turn-key fully funded community center (aka The Dojo), green spaces, new streets & sidewalks and 150 new housing units (including affordable units). To get these benefits, ⅔ of the vote must be “yes.”

WHO CAN VOTE? Anyone who lives, works, volunteers or owns property in Somerville’s Union Square, Inman Square & Spring Hill. 

WHEN ARE VOTING HOURS? Wednesday, June 4, 2025  7:30 AM – 7:30 PM

WHERE CAN I VOTE? St. Anthony’s School, 480 Somerville Avenue Somerville, MA