Briefing: Blackstone Valley Development
The 11 Massachusetts towns in the Blackstone Valley are not thought of as large economic centers. But, helped in part by the widening of Route 146 and easier access to the Massachusetts Turnpike, those towns are planning for a more prosperous future by developing a set of principles to guide economic growth, with the help of the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission (CMRPC).
What’s behind this plan?
It starts with population growth. Five of the 11 towns saw the greatest growth among Central Massachusetts communities from 2000 to 2011, led by Upton, with a 32-percent jump. Uxbridge and Douglas each grew more than 20 percent, with Grafton and Northbridge slightly under 20 percent.
What does that mean for economic growth?
According to a CMRPC report that was presented at a meeting this month, the number of jobs in the communities will nearly triple by 2035, to 27,780. But the current businesses in the region can accommodate only about two-thirds of that number. The report also cited a need for 11,000 more housing units by 2035 to meet that job growth.
What challenges does this present?
Officials say they want to balance the need for growth with the need to maintain open space and protect the environment and historical character within valley communities. The downtowns and villages in some of the towns “are regionally significant,” said Vera Kolias, principal planner with the CMRPC.
In addition, growth will likely require transportation and infrastructure upgrades beyond what's needed to maintain current systems, the report said.
Which of the towns could see the most growth?
Each town identified its own priority development areas. Four — Upton, Northbridge, Sutton and Blackstone — identified large areas.
What else could be impacted?
The report said “sustainable growth” will involve creation and maintenance of a public transportation system that can coordinate with existing transit. Kolias said residents are experiencing greater road congestion. “I think there are folks who would like to have alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles,” she said. She noted that Grafton and Northbridge officials are talking with the Worcester Regional Transit Authority about options that may boost service in those towns.
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