Framingham: Neighbors nettled by Nobscot plaza plans

FRAMINGHAM – Calling the Nobscot plaza a “dump,” selectmen said they are excited Tuesday about the chance to draw up new zoning to support redevelopment.

During a meeting with town planning and economic development officials, selectmen saw Nobscot Shopping Center owner Andy Rose’s conceptual plans to build a four-story, 150-unit apartment building at the plaza with a small number of stores.

Board members said they want residents to weigh in on the plans for the plaza, which sits nearly vacant at the corner of Water Street and Edgell Road. “What’s not acceptable is what’s there right now,” Selectman Jason Smith said.

Rose shared his redevelopment concept as consultants for the town’s Economic Development and Industrial Corp. worked on a new strategic economic development plan for the Nobscot village commercial center.

The town shared the vision and idea for village zoning with Nobscot residents last month. In providing a recap for selectmen, Community and Economic Development Director Art Robert said building a consensus around a preferred “look” is the key first step. “Then we can go about the process of developing zoning that will support what we want,” he said.