The City of Worcester is launching an 18-month citywide planning process in an effort to address issues regarding housing, land use, environment, transportation, and economic development.
The program is dubbed Worcester Now | Next and is meant to bring together past, present, and future initiatives into a cohesive plan for the city, according to a Monday press release from the city government. Worcester’s Planning & Regulatory Services Division is working with a Boston-based planning firm called Utile to lead the program.
Utile’s team includes real estate and economic development firm HR&A Advisors, transportation planning firm Nelson Nygaard, landscape architect Brown, Richardson & Rowe, and equity and engagement partner Rivera Consulting Inc.
The Worcester Planning Board will review progress as the project moves forward and ultimately endorse a final plan document.
Worcester Now | Next commences its first phase in March with a citywide survey. Throughout the year, the city will host community workshops to review and discuss visions for the city plan. The initiative is slated to conclude in May 2023 with a completed plan.
“This planning effort is a unique opportunity to engage with the people who live and work in Worcester,” said City Manager Ed Augustus, in a statement. “The citywide plan will lay out a coordinated vision and strategy that allows Worcester to continue to grow and develop as a diverse, prosperous, and innovative city.”
Worcester residents and stakeholders can learn more about the citywide plan and ongoing engagement events online.
