Overview
In 2015 the City of Framingham EDIC completed a planning and market analysis study focused on a strategic economic development plan for the village commercial centers of Saxonville and Nobscot in North Framingham. The strategic economic development plan focused on identifying actions that will lead to investment in both Saxonville and Nobscot. The study focused on an area approximately one quarter mile from the main intersection of both village commercial centers.
This work is an implementation effort that was recommended in the Master Land Use Plan that was adopted by the City in 2012. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of market forces and opportunities within each village commercial center, and creates an urban design vision to guide public sector decisions including zoning revisions, public investment and engagement with private sector owners and developers.
The City of Framingham solicited requests for proposals for professional assistance by a land use planning, economic development and urban design consultant to lead this effort. The Cecil Group, a planning and design firm located in Boston, was selected with their economic development sub-consultant FXM Associates.
The consultant team gathered input from the community to better understand the issues and opportunities of the study areas, and to identify a shared community vision for the village centers to help shape economic development strategies. This public outreach included stakeholder interviews, presentations at EDIC regular meetings, and three public meetings in each village center.
Key milestones
- Initial Public Meetings - February 2015
- Alternative Approaches Public Meetings - April 2015
- Final Public Meetings - June 2015
- Final Report Completed - September 2015
Strategic Plan Goals
- What should the village commercial center be?
- How should it look?
- How do we get there?
Recent Public Meetings: Plan Implementation & Next Steps
January 2019 - Zoning Proposals
The City proposed new zoning for Nobscot Village which became B-4.
JULY 2019 - ZONING APPROVAL
In July 2019, the City Council voted unanimously to approve the proposed Nobscot Village (B-4) Zoning that was recommended by both the Planning Board and the Subcommittee on Planning and Zoning.