Framingham, Massachusetts

205 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 12 Framingham’s leaders to meet its goals. The city works closely with large apartment complexes and developers to support incremental financing options and create new development opportunities that support its strategic plan. The state is another valued partner. City officials are currently seeking a grant from the state of Massachusetts to fund the construction of a new parking garage adjacent to the city hall and courthouse. The MetroWest Regional Transit Authority is a transportation partner that provides rides for residents to large employers in and around the city, and train stations for commuters. It also provides fixed routes and on-demand services using mini-buses. Says Sisitsky, “transportation is a major initiative for us given the diversity of our population.” The Metro West region of the Regional Tourism Council is managed by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism and develops regional advertising, public relations, brochures, and other marketing initiatives throughout the year. It works closely with representatives from the MetroWest Chamber of Commerce and Framingham Business Association to develop and oversee a wide range of business, retail, and community events in and around Framingham. Finally, Shoppers World is an active retail park within the city that was considered one of the country’s first suburban shopping malls when it first opened in the 1950s. Today, Shoppers World is undergoing a significant development phase that will include a nearly 39,000-square- foot grocery store and 6,000 square feet of additional new retail space. Owners of the complex regularly work with the city to increase its exposure to local residents and out-of-towners while the city works to provide Shoppers World and other retailers with the necessary zoning changes to meet its needs. “We recognize the importance of being a good partner for all of our (stakeholders),” Sisitsky says.