Torrington Properties unveils retail center plans at former Motel 6 site in Braintree

Braintree's Planning Board has taken a significant step towards revitalizing the long-blighted Motel 6 site, approving a new retail development plan that promises to enhance the local economy and community landscape. During the meeting on April 8, 2025, the board reviewed modifications to a previously approved project that will now feature a 4,251 square foot building and a larger 10,180 square foot retail center, with confirmed interest from tenants including Shake Shack and Brookline Bank.

The developer, Torrington Properties, has invested nearly $9.8 million into the site since acquiring it in March 2022. This investment includes extensive site work to prepare the area for development, which has been a collaborative effort with town officials and various departments. The project aims to replace the existing blight with a vibrant retail space that meets community needs.

The Planning Board's approval comes after careful consideration of traffic management plans, especially in light of the previous interest from Chick-fil-A, which was withdrawn in September 2024. The new plan is expected to reduce overall traffic by approximately 44%, addressing concerns raised during earlier discussions. The board has mandated that the developer coordinate with the Braintree Police Department to create a traffic and parking management plan ahead of the grand opening, ensuring that any potential public nuisances are promptly mitigated.

In addition to the retail development, over $1 million will be allocated for improvements to the nearby intersection, further enhancing accessibility and safety for residents. The board expressed confidence in the project's potential to transform the area and provide much-needed services to the community.

As the project moves forward, the Planning Board remains committed to ensuring that the development aligns with the town's vision for growth and revitalization. The next steps will involve finalizing leases with the interested tenants and beginning construction as soon as weather permits, marking a new chapter for the site and the community at large.