Southborough, Northborough, Westborough collaborate on Route 9 regional grant proposal

In a recent meeting of the Wastewater Study Committee in Southborough, Massachusetts, members engaged in detailed discussions regarding a regional grant application aimed at addressing wastewater issues along Route 9. The meeting, held on May 28, 2025, highlighted the importance of accurate data and collaboration among neighboring towns, specifically Southborough, Westborough, and Northborough.

A key focus of the meeting was the need for consistency in the project impact numbers being submitted for the grant. Committee members expressed confidence in the scientific methods used to derive these figures, particularly those provided by Bob Moss, who utilized algorithms for precision in unit estimates. The committee emphasized the importance of ensuring that all towns involved in the grant application are aligned on the data to avoid discrepancies that could undermine their credibility.

Leah, a member of the Economic Development Committee (EDC), was identified as the coordinator for the grant application. The committee agreed that it was crucial to share their data with her to maintain coherence in the application process. The regional grant aims to foster cohesive planning along Route 9, addressing specific wastewater challenges faced by Northborough and Westborough.

The discussion also touched on the anticipated economic impact of the project, with committee members estimating that the construction phase could support thousands of jobs. However, there was some debate over the definitions and calculations related to job estimates, with calls for clearer guidance on how these figures are determined.

As the meeting progressed, the committee reviewed the financial aspects of the grant request. They discussed whether to request $300,000 or $400,000 in funding, ultimately agreeing on a total project cost of $400,000, with the town prepared to contribute $100,000 as matching funds. This decision was framed within the context of ensuring that the town's financial commitment aligns with the grant's requirements.

In conclusion, the Wastewater Study Committee's meeting underscored the collaborative efforts required to tackle regional wastewater issues effectively. The next steps involve finalizing the grant application details and ensuring that all participating towns are on the same page regarding the data and financial commitments. This initiative not only aims to address immediate wastewater concerns but also seeks to enhance regional planning and development along a critical corridor in Southborough and its neighboring communities.