Worcester’s Growth Plan: Petty Talks Housing, Denholm Redevelopment, and City Momentum

“We’re short about 12,000 units… our goal is to do about a thousand units a year.”

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-Radio Worcester

Worcester, MA- Worcester Mayor Joe Petty recently provided a broad update on the city’s economic development efforts, discussing housing, redevelopment projects, and major community initiatives.

Speaking about a recent report delivered to the City Council by Chief Development Officer Peter Dunn, Petty emphasized the scale of Worcester’s housing challenge.

“We did projections. We’re short about 12,000 units,” Petty said. “Our goal is to do about a thousand units a year and over the next 10 years maybe get to 10 to 12,000 additional units.”

Petty pointed to the potential redevelopment of several key downtown properties, including the Denholm building and the former RMV site, as opportunities to add housing and strengthen Worcester’s downtown residential base.

He also highlighted the role of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, which has supported the creation of hundreds of new housing units across the city. According to the mayor, a significant portion of those units are deed-restricted affordable housing and ADA-compliant, helping to expand housing options for a wide range of residents.

Petty said the city’s economic development report shows Worcester continuing to move in a positive direction.

“I just think the city’s going pretty well,” Petty said. “Ask people to take a look at these several reports on economic development. Sometimes it doesn’t fit people’s narrative, some of the successes we have.”

He added that regardless of whether the city produces 400, 700, or 1,000 units in a given year, the key is maintaining momentum.

“So whether it’s 400 or 700 or a thousand units, we’re moving in the right direction and it’s important that we keep it together and move as a city moving forward.”

The mayor also discussed the ongoing impact of Polar Park, noting that continued reinvestment around the ballpark district has helped drive new activity and economic growth in the area.

Additional projects mentioned included the development of a new day center on Gold Street, designed to provide services and support to individuals experiencing homelessness.

Petty also highlighted Worcester’s role as a host city for Ghanaian soccer fans during the upcoming World Cup, an opportunity he said will bring international visitors and attention to the city.

Looking ahead, the mayor encouraged residents to take part in several upcoming community events, including the 100th anniversary celebration honoring rocket pioneer Dr. Robert Goddard and the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Petty said the combination of development projects, community investment, and cultural events reflects a city that continues to build momentum.