Felicia Jacques is set to bring her decades of housing and development experience to Boston’s Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) Board. Her appointment will also mark a major milestone as she becomes the first Black woman to serve on the board once confirmed by the Boston City Council.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu nominated Jacques for the vacant seat previously held by Dr. Ted Landsmark. The appointment is part of the city’s effort to strengthen development, expand housing opportunities, and protect the character of Boston neighborhoods.
Jacques currently serves as Principal Developer and Manager at Maloney Development. She brings more than 20 years of experience in real estate development, zoning, financing, and urban design.
Felicia Jacques Brings Housing Leadership to Boston’s BPDA Board
Jacques’ appointment adds a leader with deep knowledge of Boston’s housing and development landscape. Throughout her career, she has worked on projects involving community growth, preservation, and responsible development.
Mayor Wu praised Jacques for her professional background and civic commitment. She said Jacques brings valuable experience that will help guide Boston’s future growth.
“Felicia brings decades of direct housing leadership and civic involvement to a role that will further advance our efforts to oversee development, support housing production, and preserve the history and vibrancy of our neighborhoods,” Mayor Wu said.
Jacques’ experience includes development planning, community engagement, and working with organizations focused on improving housing opportunities.
First Black Woman on BPDA Board Brings Years of Community Service
Once confirmed, Jacques will become the first Black woman to serve on the BPDA Board. Her appointment adds greater representation to a key city body responsible for major development decisions.
The BPDA Board plays an important role in Boston’s future. Members review and approve planning studies, rezoning efforts, land decisions, and development projects across the city.
Jacques has already played an active role in Boston’s civic community. She served as Chair of the City’s Community Preservation Committee and contributed to several historic and preservation organizations.
Felicia Jacques’ Real Estate Career Includes Major Leadership Roles
Before joining Maloney Development, Jacques served as Director of Real Estate Development for the Northeast Region at Community Builders, Inc. Her work focused on creating and supporting projects that benefit communities.
She has also been involved with Historic Boston, Inc., the Boston Landmarks Commission, and the Citizens Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA). These roles have strengthened her understanding of preservation, housing policy, and neighborhood development.
Additionally, Jacques is a member of the Urban Land Institute and the Boston Chamber of Commerce. Her professional network reflects her long-term commitment to improving the built environment.
Jacques Shares Vision for Boston’s Future Development
Jacques said she is honored by the opportunity to join the BPDA Board. She explained that she wants to support thoughtful development that connects design, planning, and community needs.
“I am honored to take this appointment to support Mayor Wu’s goals to increase the creative built environment that meets at the intersection of planning, urban design and architecture and community,” Jacques said.
Her approach focuses on creating spaces that serve residents while respecting Boston’s history and identity.
BPDA Board Role Will Help Shape Boston’s Growth
The BPDA Board consists of five members who make final decisions on important development matters. These include project approvals, land acquisitions, and planning initiatives.
Board members serve five-year staggered terms. Four members are appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the City Council, while one member is appointed by the governor.
As Jacques moves toward confirmation, her appointment represents a new chapter for Boston’s development leadership. Her experience in housing and community planning positions her to help shape the city’s future.
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