Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court

Town of Nahant v. Northeastern University

September 3, 2026

Summary

The Supreme Judicial Court reversed the Superior Court’s summary judgment in favor of Northeastern University, holding that the Town of Nahant’s eminent‑domain taking of conservation and access easements is supported by a valid public purpose, is not tainted by bad‑faith pretext, and is not invalidated by private benefit or the Dover Amendment. The case was remanded for entry of an order authorizing the taking.