Specialized Stretch Energy Code

Worcester adopted the Stretch Code, a building energy code, on May 4, 2010, as part of its designation as a Green Community. This code "stretches" energy code requirements beyond the base code, requiring higher building efficiency for new construction and major renovations. In 2023, Massachusetts developed a third code option, the Specialized Stretch Code (SSC), which municipalities could vote to adopt. The new SSC increases the energy efficiency requirements for new construction. The Worcester City Council voted to adopt it on September 26, 2023.

Urban Renewal

Originated in the 1939 Federal Housing Act's authorities for slum clearance and construction of public housing in the nation's rapidly deteriorating inner cities, urban renewal was introduced to Worcester in the 1950s and 1960s. In Massachusetts, urban renewal is governed by M.G.L.

Project History

The Reactory is a 46-acre biomanufacturing campus. The new biopark is located near the UMass Medicine Science Park and the UMass Medical School. This new campus fulfills the biotech industries need for a manufacturing facility in the Worcester area.

The goal of the City of Worcester's Complete Streets program is to make the City's streets safer, more convenient and accessible to all people of all ages and abilities, whether walking, rolling, biking or riding in transit or a motor vehicle. Complete Streets expand our community's travel options and help ensure equitable access to jobs, school, shopping, social opportunities and recreation.

The City of Worcester is on the rise, and has an increased need for more housing options for residents and visitors. The city is seeing close to 1,000 new housing units being constructed between proposed projects such as the Madison Properties developments, Boston Capital's Table Talk Lofts, Wood Partner's Alta Seven Hills and Churchill James' The Cove. Worcester has made great strides to close the housing gap with both affordable and market-rate apartments.

Project History

The Division of Planning & Regulatory Services collaborated with the Department of Public Works, the Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts and the Downtown Business Improvement District on the reconstruction of Francis R. Carroll Plaza in Federal Square.

Overview