Business View Civil Municipal June 2023

156 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 6 “We do participate in the state’s Complete Streets program.” This program aims to create a more inclusive and safe transport environment by incorporating multimodal transportation features such as sidewalks and bike lanes during road upgrades. Further boosting Sterling’s walkability and connectivity, Wallace shares, is the work of the town’s active Open Space Committee. They plan to extend Sterling’s portion of the Wachusett rail trail, connecting it with nearby towns. This project, managed in collaboration with the Wachusett Greenways group, epitomizes Sterling’s commitment to enhancing its residents’ quality of life while respecting and preserving its rural charm. Education in Sterling is a notable asset, contributing significantly to the town’s appeal. “We are part of a 5-town regional school district, and I believe it’s the largest regional school in the state,” remarks Caldwell. Given its size, the district offers a range of programs that other smaller districts might not, thereby giving Sterling students an advantage. Caldwell affirms that the district performs well academically, maintaining a high standard in line with the reputation of Massachusetts for its world-class education. The school district’s broad curriculum is noteworthy, with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs incorporated from elementary to high school. Although the regional nature of the school district limits the town’s direct influence on the curriculum, it’s clear that preparing students with the skills required for the future is a priority. In addition to formal education, Sterling also boasts programs for community engagement and developing young citizens. The Yahoo group, as Cranson mentions, consists of local students who help with town cleanups, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. There’s a lot on Sterling’s plate, from updating bylaws to stimulate business growth, to initiating $7 million worth of infrastructure work and constructing a new trail by the senior center. However, these projects are not just about development but preserving the town’s history and character. Sterling, it seems, is poised to offer an attractive alternative for those priced out of the traditional suburbs. “We’re looking much better for 20 or 30 minutes more driving,” Caldwell concludes. This sentiment echoes the underlying ethos of Sterling—a harmonious blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and modern development, all within a comfortable commute. A sterling choice indeed. PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Montachusett Regional Planning Commission www.mrpc.org