"And we are in a unique position with all of this underutilized office space to do something about it and transform the city for the future.
To waste the opportunity would be a shame."
Negotiations with developers had previously secured commitments for key local infrastructure improvements, including dedicated land for a new fire and EMS station alongside road upgrades.
Municipal leaders emphasized the long-term necessity of adapting empty corporate sites into functional residential neighborhoods.
"It is incumbent upon Waltham to grow as a city," said City Councilor Colleen Bradley-MacArthur. "You don't get many opportunities to build new neighborhoods."
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If the city council fails to override the mayor's veto on Monday, planning for the 1,200-unit site will return to its initial stages, indefinitely delaying development.
