Marlborough receives $2.7M infrastructure grant

(Foto: Courtesy of MAPC) Infrastructure improvements will improve connections throughout Marlborough and its downtown.

PHOTO/Matt VOLPINI Tim Cummings, executive director of the Marlborough Economic Development Corp., said a $2.7 million Massworks grant may lead to private investment in downtown Marlborough redevelopment.

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By Emily Micucci

The Massachusetts Office of Housing and Economic Development on Wednesday announced a $2.7-million MassWorks Infrastructure Program grant to pay for streetscape improvements on the outskirts of downtown.

The announcement was made during a press conference at City Hall, part of a series of MassWorks grant announcements the state is making in 10 communities this week and next.

According to Tim Cummings, executive director of the Marlborough Economic Development Corp., the money will be used for a series of upgrades on East Main Street, tying it aesthetically with Main Street in downtown. Projects will include roadway reconstruction, sidewalk improvements, upgrading a retaining wall, intersection realignment, new light posts and other beautification efforts.

“It will add a cohesive aesthetic to transition from East Main Street to Main Street … and help create a mixed-use village feel,” Cummings said.

Importantly, Cummings said city leaders believe that there will be some private investment coming to that area of the city once the infrastructure improvements are in place. This includes mixed-use retail and residential development, Cummings said.

The MassWorks grant will enhance the city’s downtown revitalization plan, an investment that will total $3 million, he said.