Worcester council approves South Market streetscape, waterline replacement and Christmas Run pool renovation

WORCESTER — The Worcester City Council voted April 7 to approve several budgeted infrastructure and recreation projects, including a $250,000 downtown streetscape improvement, a waterline replacement project on Gashi Street and South Columbus Avenue, and authorization to move forward on the Christmas Run pool renovation.

The council adopted Resolution 2025-27 declaring the city’s intent to improve pedestrian areas on South Market Street and South Street and to assess affected property owners for a portion of the cost; preliminary assessments were presented as $67,881.52 with the rest of the estimated $250,000 borne by the city. Councilmember Wharton said the work is timed to support ongoing downtown development and named two businesses and a theater among those to be assessed.

The council immediately followed by adopting Resolution 2025-28, authorizing the director of administration to advertise for bids and award a contract to the lowest-and-best bidder for the same streetscape work. City staff told council the project is planned for after Labor Day and will be coordinated with property owners.

Council also approved Resolution 2025-29 to advertise for bids and award a contract for the Gashi Street and South Columbus Avenue waterline replacement. During comment, a council member…