Planning for Worcester’s Future

John McGrail

Being a developer involves more than purchasing, renovating and managing properties. A lot of planning goes into creating successful developments. One of MG2’s strengths lies in planning, and that is reflected in the master plan we developed for Worcester’s Grid District. 

Worcester has been poised for growth for years. The city recognized it with its master plan for the Theater District and for the overall revitalization of the Downtown., MG2 had previously amassed 510 residential units, 300 parking spaces and approximately 60,000 square feet of retail space (with the potential to develop an additional 350,000 square feet.) Maximizing the potential of this investment requires significant planning. Through this master plan, the Grid District marries the history of the buildings and location with a cool, trendy “live and play” atmosphere that appeals to Worcester’s large student and young professional population.

The Grid District consists of an eclectic mix of buildings that currently house students and local businesses, as well as a number of vacant parcels primed for potential downtown development opportunities. Our master plan targets underutilized retail spaces and bolsters those spaces in multiple phases to create a bustling economic presence in Downtown Worcester.

Historic restoration is another key feature for the Grid District. Replacing windows in character with historic condition, updating brick facades, improving lighting and restoring storefronts to their original glory are just a few elements detailed throughout the plan. While the integrity of these buildings are being preserved, residential units are being outfitted with the modern amenities that renters desire.

Creating a lively urban community is a unique opportunity MG2 is excited to bring to Worcester. With that in mind, we have planned for spaces that can be utilized as pop up retail, temporary event spaces and “third spaces” (the stop between work and home) areas, while also developing opportunities for converting alleys into community meeting areas.

The Grid District is more than residential buildings. Once complete, the results of the master plan will transform MG2’s space in downtown Worcester into a highly desirable place to work, live and play.