Eric Casey

Eric Casey covers manufacturing and real estate for the Worcester Business Journal. He previously ran Burn After Reading, an online publication focusing on the cannabis industry. He has also formerly had freelance work published in outlets including Worcester Magazine and Different Leaf Magazine. Eric is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where he studied history and political science. He grew up in Marlborough and is currently a resident of Worcester.

Real Estate

Worcester bagel shop slated to move to Pleasant Street

Bagel Time, a family-owned Worcester breakfast and lunch spot that operated out of a location on Park Avenue, appears set to move to the former Pleasant Street location of a fur clothing store.

Government & Politics

City seeks public feedback as Worcester Now | Next development plan nears final stages

Following the public comment period, the plan will be put in front of the Planning Board for final approval some time this winter.

Banking & Finance

Country Bank names first woman president

A Ware-based financial institution will have its first woman president in the 174-year history of the business, as Mary McGovern has been named the next president of Country Bank.

Real Estate

Shrewsbury retirement community bought for $36M by large investment firm

The Residence at Orchard Grove in Shrewsbury is under new management, following its purchase by a Chicago-based real estate investment firm.

Economy

Maker to Main to close permanently after 3+ years of operation

Cheney was one of several small business owners who told WBJ in December the combined forces of lower consumer spending and higher costs were threatening the future of small businesses in Central Massachusetts.

Hospitality

Gardner Airport cuts ribbon on $5M reopening

The bulk of the $5.05 million in federal funds were a result of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden in November 2021.

Education

Nichols receives $1M anonymous donation for data science initiatives

Students at Nichols College studying data science will soon have more resources at their disposal, following a $1-million donation to the school from an anonymous donor.

Economy

Central Mass. unemployment rates spike, rise above 2022 levels

All four metropolitan areas of Central Massachusetts saw significant jumps in their unemployment rates in December.

Environment

Central Mass. has 1.4M sq. ft. of green buildings, as state ranks 3rd nationally

Overall, Central Massachusetts LEED-certified buildings contributed 1.4 million square feet to Massachusetts’ total, amounting to 6% of the state’s green building square footage.

Arts & Entertainment