Northborough committee moves forward with revitalization plan for downtown area

Downtown revitalization took center stage at the Northborough Town Meeting on May 5, 2025, as officials pushed for a significant project aimed at transforming the largely empty West Main Street area. The proposal, which seeks to enhance the streetscape and attract new businesses, has been in the works for over three decades, with its first mention in the town's master plan dating back to 1988.

Town officials emphasized the urgency of moving forward with the project, citing the current low demand for parking as an ideal time for construction. "The downtown has been waiting a very, very long time," one official noted, highlighting the potential for improved aesthetics to draw in businesses and boost local pride. The project is expected to cost approximately $2.2 million, with hopes of securing grants to cover most of the expenses, resulting in no tax impact for residents.

The revitalization plan is not just about beautification; it aims to create a domino effect of improvements in the area. Officials shared success stories from Millbury, where similar projects led to a complete turnaround of the downtown, filling previously vacant commercial spaces with new businesses. "When we started the Streetscape project, we had a number of commercial vacancies. Those vacancies are all gone," one official recounted, underscoring the potential benefits for Northborough.

Despite the enthusiasm, the proposal faced scrutiny from the Appropriations and Financial Planning Committees, both of which expressed concerns over the financial implications and the lack of secured grant funding. The committees had previously voted against the project when it was proposed at a higher cost, but the revised request of $751,000 has prompted renewed discussions.

As the town weighs its options, officials are hopeful that the community will recognize the long-term benefits of revitalizing the downtown area. The timeline for the project includes final design plans and construction estimates to be presented in September, with construction anticipated to begin in April 2026. The outcome of this meeting could set the stage for a new chapter in Northborough's development, making it a pivotal moment for the town's future.