Mass. explores eliminating second staircase to unlock new housing

State of play: Gov. Maura Healey signed an order Thursday to explore eliminating the two-staircase requirement for midrise apartment buildings.

• The two-staircase rule limits how many apartments fit on smaller urban lots, meaning developers favor larger parcels and bulkier, more expansive buildings.

By the numbers: According to the state, nearly 5,000 parcels near public transit stops could host new developments.

• Up to 130,000 units are possible if converted to single-stair projects.
• Massachusetts is far from reaching its goal of 222,000 new homes by 2035.

Of note: Fire safety officials and housing experts will study whether modern sprinkler systems and building materials make single staircases safe before any rules are changed.

The big picture: Connecticut, Montana and New York City already allow single-staircase construction.