Development News for Westborough, Massachusetts

EDC Approves 'Shop Dine Westboro' Digital Coupon Book Initiative to Boost Local Businesses and Fundraising

The Economic Development Committee (EDC) discussed and approved the concept of a digital coupon book initiative, 'Shop Dine Westboro,' aimed at supporting local businesses and community fundraising. The initiative involves local student groups and organizations selling digital coupon books featuring local business offers, with a portion of sales going to the fundraising groups. The EDC's role will be to support the program by recruiting businesses and ensuring their representation in the book. The digital coupon book is planned to be ready for back-to-school shopping in August and will extend through the holidays. Fundraising You, a company specializing in fundraising through digital coupon books, will be involved. The committee approved the motion to proceed with the digital coupon book from the perspective of driving business into local establishments.

EDC Finalizes Categories for Annual Awards Program, Sets Timeline for Nominations and Voting

The EDC discussed the upcoming EDC Awards program, aiming to finalize categories and the nomination process. The committee reviewed a list of potential award categories from previous years, including 'Best Business Expansion,' 'Best Destination,' 'Best Large Business,' 'Best New Downtown Business,' 'Best Small Business,' 'Best Sustainable Business,' 'Civic Pride,' 'Company to Watch,' 'Hall of Fame,' 'Innovation,' 'Leader in Development,' and 'Westboro Foodie.' The committee decided on a core set of awards: Best Large Business, New Business Award, Small Business Award, Civic Pride Public Voting, Company to Watch, and Westboro Foodie Award. They also discussed the nomination and voting process, aiming for public involvement and setting timelines for nominations in September and voting in October, with winners announced by November. The goal is to establish a more standardized process for future award cycles.

Westboro Advances Branding and Wayfinding Project, Plans Welcome Events for Visitors

Laura provided an update on the branding and wayfinding project, confirming that WS Sign Design from Springfield has been selected as the awardee. A kickoff meeting was held to discuss details, including sign placement and design considerations. The team is working with Public Works and the Police Department to finalize locations and ensure signs do not impede traffic or operations, with installation expected to begin around June 22nd. Laura emphasized the importance of promoting the grant-funded nature of this project to the public. Additionally, plans are underway for a 'pickleball morning' as part of a welcome initiative for hotel guests, alongside an adaptive soccer event before the farmer's market and the Westboro block party. These events aim to attract visitors and encourage them to engage with local businesses and entertainment.

Westboro and Southborough Collaborate on Gateway Initiative Grant for East End Development Study

Laura, from the planning department, provided an update on a grant application for the 'Gateway Initiative,' a collaborative effort between Westboro and Southborough to conduct a land use, zoning, and infrastructure review of the east end of Westboro and west end of Southborough, centered around Costland Drive. The grant, submitted through the One Stop Program, Community Development, and EEOHLC (Housing and Economic Development), seeks funding for a consultant to identify opportunities for business and property investment, aiming to increase tax revenue. Letters of support have been obtained from both towns' Planning Boards and Select Boards, elected representatives, and five property owners. The decision on the grant is expected in October or November.