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Westford declines to opt in to state pilot extending late‑night alcohol service
Summary
Town leaders decided not to opt in to the state's temporary pilot that would allow municipalities to extend liquor‑license hours and create public‑consumption districts for summer 2026; police and fire chiefs cited public‑safety and neighborhood concerns.
On June 23 the Select Board reviewed a state law authorizing municipalities to opt in to a temporary pilot allowing extended liquor‑service hours (to 3 a.m.) and public consumption districts tied to summer events. The chief of police and fire officials recommended against opting in, citing potential public‑safety burdens and the town’s largely residential context near many establishments.
Officials noted the town had not identified large public watch parties and that local establishments generally do not plan to serve until 3 a.m.; the pilot would allow establishments whose licenses permit later service to petition for an extension. After discussion the board indicated consensus not to adopt the state pilot for Westford this summer.
What’s next: no formal action was taken to opt in; individual establishments may still host watch parties within their licensed hours and the town will revisit any specific requests in the normal licensing process.
