20 Franklin Street - Mixed Use Rehabilitation
In 2012, the WBDC, in partnership with the City of Worcester, completed the Theatre District Master Plan, to create a blueprint for revitalization efforts that would bolster the new Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts. As part of this Master Plan effort, the WBDC purchased the former Worcester Telegram & Gazette (T&G) property, located in the heart of the Theatre District. The WBDC sought to redevelop the sprawling urban complex, placing the building back into active use and provide a use that would re-energize the area around Worcester City Hall, the Worcester Common and the Hanover Theatre. Today, the T&G building, known as 20 Franklin Street, is a bustling hub of education and innovation. Quinsigamond Community College’s Healthcare and Workforce Development Center opened its doors in 2016. Shortly after its opening, the Worcester Idea Lab, an innovative space within 20 Franklin Street that includes co-working space and an accelerator space, welcomed 20 new businesses and organizations to the Downtown. The 20 Franklin Street facility is also home to a number of smaller companies, including ten24 Digital Solutions, and Bluefin Technology Partners.
As a true mixed-use property, 20 Franklin Street not only encompasses the innovative side but also the cultural side of Worcester. The facility is also home to the Worcester PopUP and the Jean Mcdonough Arts Center (JMAC) - bringing smaller-scale theatre back to Worcester. In 2020, the building welcomed its newest addition – GBH. The opening of GBH’s Worcester bureau marked yet another milestone for the downtown – bringing broadcast news media back to Worcester. In addition to these cultural offerings, Shawarma Palace opened its doors in 2020, providing tenants within the building and those working or visiting downtown, with another delicious food option.
WBDC Project
State & Local Permitting Assistance
Grant Research, Writing & Administration
Tax Credit Approvals
Planning - Market Readiness & Implementation
Environmental Assessment & Remediation
Construction Management
Property Management
