Elm Park Local Historic District Study

The Worcester Historical Commission, under MGL Chapter 40C, has voted to study the possible creation of a Local Historic District (LHD) in the Elm Park Neighborhood. This area includes the Worcester campus of Becker College and neighboring residential and commercial areas located next to and east of Elm Park. This neighborhood includes many varied examples of mid-nineteenth and early-twentieth century residential architecture.

The study is a formal process to gather information on the properties within the area under consideration, engage in dialog with neighborhood residents, property owners and the public at large and plan a recommendation on the formation of a new district. Creation of a new Local Historic District would be determined by a vote of the City Council following completion of the study.

Study Process

The study will be conducted during spring and summer 2021 by the Worcester Historical Commission, assisted by staff from the Planning & Regulatory Services Division. The study will include following steps.

Assess Architectural and Historic Significance

The Committee assesed the architectural and historical significance of the general environs and the buildings within the proposed district.

Neighborhood Opinion Survey

To gauge community interest and support for the proposal, as well as inform potential components and governing rules, a neighborhood-wide opinion survey was conducted.

Preliminary Study Report

The study findings have been documented in a Preliminary Study Report that has been submitted to the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC).

Public Hearing

A public hearing was held on the proposal on September 29, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. in Room 210 of 61 Sever Street, Worcester, MA.

Attendees were asked to please walk, bike, bus or carpool to the meeting if possible.

Committee Recommendation- Currently Here

At their March 23, 2023 meeting, the Worcester Historical Commission voted to approve the preliminary study report and transmit the report to City Council, who will determine whether to establish a new Local Historic District in the neighborhood, its boundaries and its governing rules. - View Report

Local Historic Districts

Local Historic Districts are established to protect historic buildings and structures from demolition or inappropriate alterations. In a Local Historic District, most changes to exterior architectural features, including additions, changes in materials, other alterations or demolitions, are reviewed by the City's Historic Commission.

Worcester currently has three Local Historic Districts: Massachusetts Avenue, Montvale and Crown Hill.

LHD Map

Additional Information

Additional information and opportunities to participate will be posted to this webpage as the study progresses.

Staff contact:
Michelle Johnstone, Senior Preservation Planner
JohnstoneM@Worcesterma.gov