Town of Bridgewater Announces Revitalization Plan, Opportunities for Community Input

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, Aug. 28, 2023

Media Contact: Leah Comins
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: leah@jgpr.net

BRIDGEWATER — Town Manager Michael Dutton and Community & Economic Development Director Bob Rulli are pleased to announce phase one of the Town's revitalization plan.

“Revitalizing the Heart of Bridgewater: Vision to Reality," is an initiative focused on transforming the town’s Central Business District, which includes Central Square and the area in and around Campus Plaza, into a vibrant hub of business and community. The community-driven initiative will address many of the objectives from the town’s Comprehensive Master Plan completed in 2022.

Revitalizing the Heart of Bridgewater is a holistic initiative, addressing housing, transportation, small businesses, historic preservation, infrastructure and cultural tourism. The focus on Central Square allows for the protection and celebration of the historic character of downtown and the reimagination of the area around Campus Plaza. This includes the relocation of the Town’s MBTA platform, making it a model for suburban Transit Oriented Development — a fast-growing trend in creating vibrant, livable, sustainable communities.

“We’re committed to actualizing improvements downtown, including pedestrian safety, beautification congruent with a high quality of life, and a climate that supports existing local businesses while attracting new ones,” said Town Manager Dutton.

Added Director Rulli, “We have the unique opportunity now to create a ‘there, there,’ meaning the chance to give Bridgewater an identity — a place to gather, shop, work and entertain; a place where young professionals can work and live, and university students might consider starting their post-collegiate life."

As part of the process, the town will be hosting a Community Workshop on Sept. 26 at 6:30 p.m. at the George Mitchell Elementary School, 500 South St. Light refreshments and beverages will be provided, and child care will be offered.

In advance of the September workshop, the town will be conducting additional outreach efforts that offer opportunities for community input and engagement, including polling conducted in conjunction with Bridgewater State University. The Town of Bridgewater and its Office of Community & Economic Development will also each use social media channels to provide information, as well as distribute printed materials at community gathering spots such as the Senior Center, Town Hall and library.

“Bridgewater is an extraordinary community full of bright minds, outstanding talent, hardworking and dedicated business owners, exceptional educators and committed residents who share our belief that there’s an opportunity right at our fingertips to invest in and grow this town to realize its full potential," said Director Rulli. "The collective input from our residents, business owners, university faculty, staff and students, and other stakeholders will inform Revitalizing the Heart of Bridgewater as we move forward toward realizing our vision. I look forward to the opportunities for public engagement over the next few months, leading up to our September workshop." 

Additional details about Revitalizing the Heart of Bridgewater: Vision to Reality can be found at bridgewatermavisiontoreality.com. 

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