A significant housing development is being proposed for Westborough, Massachusetts, with plans for 388 new apartment units spread across two five-story buildings along Route 9. The proposal, submitted by Connecticut-based developer Post Road Realty, LLC, outlines a multi-year construction plan that could reshape a key commercial corridor in the town.
Key Takeaways
- A proposal has been filed to build 388 new apartment units in Westborough, MA.
- The project involves constructing two five-story buildings on separate parcels on either side of Route 9.
- The developer, Post Road Realty, LLC, anticipates a phased construction schedule running from fall 2026 to fall 2029.
- The project aims to increase local housing options, including affordable units, and significantly boost tax revenue from the properties.
Details of the Proposed Development
The developer, an affiliate of Post Road Residential, has formally submitted plans to the town for a comprehensive residential project. The company has a track record of developing over 3,500 multifamily units across Connecticut and the Greater Boston area. According to application materials, the Westborough project is designed to enhance housing diversity and provide more affordable living options for the community.
In its proposal, Post Road Realty stated its intention to create a development that respects the town's character. The company noted the project will “honor Westborough’s historic architectural past, while offering new housing that is responsive to consumption preferences of today.” The plans are scheduled for a formal presentation and public hearing on December 2, where town officials and residents will have the opportunity to review the details.
A Project Split by Route 9
The development is uniquely structured across two distinct parcels located on opposite sides of Turnpike Road, also known as Route 9. This configuration splits the project into a north and a south component.
The North Parcel: This larger section combines three properties at 171 Milk Street, 221 Turnpike Road, and 223 Turnpike Road, creating a total land area of 5.735 acres. The plan for this site includes a five-story building containing 206 apartment units. These units are expected to have an average size of 932 square feet. The proposal also allocates 292 parking spaces for this building. The unit mix is weighted towards smaller layouts, with approximately 60% designated as studios or one-bedroom apartments. The remaining 40% will be two- and three-bedroom units.
The South Parcel: Located at 222 Turnpike Road, this parcel covers 4.4 acres. The developer plans to construct another five-story building here, which will house 182 apartment units. The average unit size is projected to be slightly smaller at 927 square feet. Similar to the north parcel, the unit distribution favors smaller apartments, with 57% planned as studios or one-bedroom units. The rest will be a mix of two- and three-bedroom options.
Addressing Regional Housing Needs
Large-scale multifamily projects like the one proposed in Westborough are becoming more common in suburban Boston communities. These developments are often seen as a way to address a regional housing shortage, providing options for young professionals, downsizing residents, and families who are priced out of the single-family home market.
Phased Construction and Economic Impact
The project is slated to be built in two distinct phases over a period of roughly three years, assuming it receives all necessary approvals from the town.
Construction on the north parcel is scheduled to begin first, with a projected start date in the fall of 2026. This phase is expected to take approximately two years, with completion estimated for the summer of 2028. Work on the south parcel would follow, commencing in the spring of 2028 and concluding in the fall of 2029.
Projected Tax Revenue Increase
Post Road Realty estimates that once completed and fully occupied, the new development will generate 23 times more tax revenue for the town of Westborough than the properties' current use provides.
The current structures on the parcels, which include a detached garage and an office building, would be demolished to make way for the new apartment buildings. According to the developer's impact statement, these existing buildings are not considered historically significant by the town, clearing the path for their removal.
“The project will increase housing diversity, create more affordable housing for the community, and is designed to incorporate sustainable design measures.”
Future of the Route 9 Corridor
The proposed development represents a significant potential change for this stretch of Route 9 in Westborough. The introduction of nearly 400 new households would increase population density and could spur further commercial activity in the area.
The focus on studio and one-bedroom units suggests the developer is targeting single professionals and couples, a demographic that is often seeking rental options with modern amenities close to major transportation routes. The project's success will depend on securing local approvals, a process that will involve detailed reviews of its impact on traffic, infrastructure, and town services.
As the December 2 public hearing approaches, town officials and residents will be closely examining the proposal to weigh its potential benefits against its community impact. The outcome will set a precedent for future large-scale residential development in Westborough.
