Over the past decade, cities throughout the Commonwealth have adopted streetscape and design standards to promote continuity and accessibility in their downtown neighborhoods. In an effort to raise the standards of architectural quality and promote positive user experiences among residents, workers, and visitors, the Executive Office of Economic Development has created two documents: City of Worcester Urban Design Guidelines and a City of Worcester Streetscape Policy.
The documents are meant to serve as a guiding tool to be used by the City, private developers and property owners for the design of the public realm. The recommendations address the design of outdoor space including sidewalks, street trees and street furniture as well as urban design principles such as building height, facade composition and signage. These standards will be used to steer future strategic development within our core neighborhoods in a consistent, thoughtful and professional manner. They will also serve to protect neighborhood character, enhance coordination among City departments and promote economic development. Further, the use of these widely accepted design principles will add value to projects and increase the return on investment.
