Reimagining Westborough's Downtown
July 30, 2024

In collaboration with RKG Associates, FHI Studio is excited to be part of shaping the future of Westborough's downtown area. Recently, we had the privilege of presenting findings and preliminary recommendations at a public workshop, where community members joined us in envisioning potential improvements for the Downtown.

Central to our discussions was the transformation of the Westborough rotary, a focal point known for its current traffic challenges and safety concerns for pedestrians. We presented three innovative scenarios: a modern roundabout, a triangle that preserves the green space at the center of the rotary, and a grid concept that would create a new town green and a new street parallel to Main Street.

Participants expressed a preference for the "triangle" scenario due to its feasibility and potential to enhance traffic operations, while addressing safety and accessibility issues.

Triangle Concept

Beyond reconfiguring the rotary, FHI Studio also presented recommendations for other mobility enhancements. We explored ideas ranging from parking improvements to the integration of bicycle lanes and upgraded pedestrian facilities, all aimed at fostering a more vibrant and accessible downtown environment.

The insights gathered from this workshop, combined with feedback received from a prior workshop, are pivotal in crafting a cohesive downtown plan. Moving forward, we consolidate these ideas into a detailed plan and report, which will provide a guide for Westborough’s town officials and support their collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to improve the Downtown’s state roadways.

At FHI Studio, we are honored to contribute our expertise in multimodal transportation planning and design to this transformative project. Together with RKG Associates and the community of Westborough, we look forward to realizing a downtown that not only meets current needs but also lays a foundation for the future.

Click here to read more in the Community Advocate.