Framingham

The share of Massachusetts students who take out loans to pay for public higher education has exploded in the past two decades while the combined pressure of inflation and a lack of investment have hamstrung the impact of state-funded financial aid, according to a new report.

The recognizable and highly visible 111 Speen St. in Framingham is gaining two new tenants: a co-working space and an architectural firm, long with a new look.

A corporation co-registered to Bechara Fren of Franklin, who also co-owns the Mill Street apartment complex in Worcester whose roof collapsed and displaced all the residents, has sold a Framingham apartment complex and nearby property for $13.6 million.

One Howard LLC, a corporation registered to the principals of City Realty Group in Boston, has purchased a parking lot across the street from the Framingham Commuter Rail stop.

Exhibit ‘A’ Brewing Co. will release a new beer and host a fundraiser for the Framingham after-school and summer program Hoops & Homework on Saturday.

The CEO of MetroWest Medical Center, who assumed the role in July, has resigned his position.

The three Central Massachusetts metropolitan areas tracked by the state all saw slight increases in their unemployment rates in December.

Walgreens sold a 2.7-acre property at 653 Worcester Road in Framingham for $10 million on Thursday. A Walgreens Pharmacy is located on the site, though there is no indication that the store will close.

Framingham clinical research firm Alira Health has promoted Annabel de Maria to the newly created role of chief patient officer, effective immediately.

MetroWest Center for Independent Living in Framingham is looking for a permanent replacement after the unexpected death of longtime executive director Paul Spooner in October.