BLACKSTONE VALLEY INSTITUTE

Blackstone Canal Initiative
Worcester, Massachusetts

[ sketch by Icon Architects, Inc. ]

The Blackstone Canal, opened in 1828, helped change Worcester forever, and was the catalyst for the transformation of the City to a center of industry. Now, on the 175th anniversary of the Canal’s creation, the City’s leaders are considering a plan to “daylight” (uncover) the Blackstone Canal and revitalize the neighborhoods that surround it.

The Canal District, designated by the City in 2002, extends south from the newly renovated Union Station along Harding Street, which is the historic route of the Blackstone Canal. To the west, the District borders Worcester’s Arts District and to the south it joins the new Route 146 Parkway, where the Blackstone River Bike Path is being constructed and a regional Visitor’s Center is planned.

Centered around the re-introduction of water along the Canal’s historic route, the Plan proposes re-constructing the canal in the northern sections and replicating the canal with pavement displays, banners, and signs along the southern sections. This proposal seeks to minimize the interference to local businesses and residents while enhancing the neighborhood and creating an attraction for visitors.

The Plan proposes a phased approach to implementing the Blackstone Canal Initiative, and a partnership of local business leaders, residents, city and federal government have expressed support in putting this plan into action. The key partners in this effort include Worcester’s Blackstone Canal Task Force, the City’s Economic Development Department, and the Blackstone Canal National Heritage Corridor Commission.

Contact:

Stephen Bishop
Project Director
Worcester’s Northern Gateway Project
(508) 799-5500 ext. 14