A Vision for Central Massachusetts

Home to over 500,000 residents, Central Massachusetts boasts strong education, natural beauty, classic New England charm, and so much more. However, the future of the region faces uncertainties in population growth, climate change, industry shifts, and wealth inequity.

Imagine 2050 will align the region’s priorities to ensure a sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future. Designed to be implemented by town governments, developers, policymakers, non-profits, and residents alike; this plan imagines a region that works for everyone, and ways to make this vision happen.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

EQUITABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH

Central Massachusetts has evolved into a hub for technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, benefiting from higher education partnerships. Despite economic growth, income inequality persists, and labor shortages and infrastructure limitations threaten growth. In 2050, Central Massachusetts will benefit from policies promoting job creation, infrastructure investment, housing, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

IMPROVED MOBILITY AND CONNECTIVITY

By 2050, Central Massachusetts’ 40 communities will be well-connected, with reduced congestion and improved multimodal transport. The region is taking critical steps to create a comprehensive transportation system that integrates various modes. Innovative travel options will connect people to homes, jobs, and services, enhancing mobility and air quality. This plan will address transportation gaps and equitable connectivity across urban, suburban, and rural areas.

STRENGTHENED CLIMATE RESILIENCE

In 2050, Central Massachusetts is prepared for the consequences of a changing climate by addressing serious threats to infrastructure and the health of its population. Resilient neighborhoods and critical infrastructure are designed to withstand threats. Vulnerable populations are protected from the impact of extreme climate, and municipalities are prepared to respond to emergencies. Regional partnerships strengthen local responses to climate threats that municipalities are not equipped to handle alone.

RESPONSIVE GOVERNANCE & IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE

Housing, climate, and shifting economic conditions pose challenges that emerge at geographic scales that go beyond local governments. We imagine a region where municipalities work collaboratively and form strong partnerships to better adapt to changing conditions in markets, climate, and demographics. Communities work across municipal lines to meet these larger challenges through regional collaboration and partnerships with the private and non-profit sectors.

Community Engagement by the Numbers

+20 Tabling Events
…including Farmers’ Markets, Craft Fairs, & Town-wide celebrations

+15 Visioning Sessions
…including sub-regional summits, town meetings, and organizations

+600 Surveys Collected
…through paper copies in town halls, tabling events, and online

+1,150 Public Comments Collected
…from tabling events, visioning sessions, & our survey

Survey Results

Below are the top answers to the question:

“In 2050 I Imagine a Central Massachusetts with…”

Economy

Many Small, Local Businesses

Milkroom Brewing, Rutland

Walkable, Mixed-Use Areas

Town Center, Webster

Vibrant Town
Centers

Town Center, Spencer

Environment

Clean Air, Water,
& Soil

Blackstone River

Thriving Local Food System & Farms

Brookfield Orchards, North Brookfield

Open Space Conservation

Wachusett Mountain State Reservoir, Princeton

Equity

Housing that is Affordable

Affordable Housing, Sturbridge

Health Care for All Income Levels

Youth & Family Services, Shrewsbury

Access to Healthy Food for All

Community Harvest Project, Grafton

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Imagine 2050