Boston officials have approved a proposal aimed at encouraging downtown residential development.

The Zoning Commission of the Boston Redevelopment Authority last Wednesday unanimously approved a zoning incentive program that could bring as many as 2,000 new housing units to the Financial District in the Hub’s downtown section. Under the approved program, developers will get height bonuses of up to 350 feet for any projects built on parcels totaling half an acre or more that include a minimum of 50 percent residential use, and where at least 10 percent of the housing units are affordable to households earning no more than 120 percent of the area’s median income.

“We are pleased that the Zoning Commission unanimously supported the BRA’s proposal,” said BRA spokesperson Susan Elsbree. “This critical housing initiative could bring as many as 2,000 new units of housing to our downtown.”

Under the program, building height can be extended to 400 feet if more than 10 percent of the housing units are affordable. Buildings classified as historical by the Landmarks Commission will be exempt. In addition, the maximum building plate will be restricted to 10,000 square feet, which is expected to create a neighborhood of tall, slim buildings. Before the change, buildings with a maximum height of 155 feet were permitted in the Financial District.

The Alliance of Boston Neighborhoods has opposed the proposal, arguing that an in-depth planning and impact study should be done before any zoning changes are implemented.