Worcester’s business landscape never sits still. From major housing proposals and commercial development to new businesses, nonprofit news and local milestones, here’s a look at some of the projects and announcements that shaped the city’s business community over the past week.
Developer proposes 207 housing units on Stafford Street
This week’s roundup includes a proposed 207-unit housing development on Stafford Street, a new affiliate for Seven Hills Foundation, a downtown business celebrating a milestone anniversary and more.
CT Realty Trust, a Connecticut-based real estate developer, is proposing 207 housing units at 232 Stafford St. on a 36.7-acre parcel owned by Worcester Academy that was previously used as athletic fields known as New Balance Fields.
Operating in Worcester as 232 Stafford LLC, the developer submitted an application to the Zoning Board of Appeals on June 16 seeking a special permit and variances for the proposed residential development.
Plans include 150 units within 26 single-family attached dwelling buildings, along with a four-story, 71,088-square-foot multifamily building containing 57 units. The development would include 452 parking spaces.
The board is scheduled to review the application at its next meeting Aug. 10.
Seven Hills adds MassEdCO as affiliate
Worcester-based Seven Hills Foundation has announced the addition of Massachusetts Education and Career Opportunities Inc. as a new affiliate organization.
Since 1973, MassEdCO has helped disadvantaged students access higher education, apply for financial aid and train for careers. The affiliation became official July 1, according to Seven Hills, the largest human services nonprofit in Central Massachusetts.
Through the affiliation, MassEdCO will be able to continue its Educational Talent Search program in Worcester and New Bedford, which supports students pursuing education and career training.
The affiliation will also restore Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs, known as GEAR UP, which assists low-income students with college preparation.
MassEdCO recently lost $2 million in federal funding, resulting in the layoff of its entire staff in September 2025.
The Bra Shop celebrates five years
Owned by Stephanie Ramey, The Bra Shop celebrated five years in business with a ribbon-cutting ceremony July 21 at its downtown location at 303 Main St.
The lingerie boutique offers expert fittings, honest guidance and a personalized experience. Formerly known as The O Shop, the business was originally located on Richmond Avenue before rebranding and moving to a larger Main Street space in November 2025.
Announcing the anniversary on social media, The Bra Shop wrote: “To every customer who has trusted us, supported us, recommended us, and allowed us to be part of your journey, thank you. Because of you, we’ve had the privilege of serving thousands of women from across the region, helping them feel comfortable, confident, and supported every single day.”
Fletcher, Howe join community foundation board
Matt Fletcher of Lexington and Lauren Howe of Leominster have joined the Greater Worcester Community Foundation Board of Directors for four-year terms.
Fletcher is an investment professional with Worcester-based Moneta, focusing on private foundation support and legacy planning. He previously spent 25 years working in corporate finance and investments.
Howe is the owner and founder of empHoweredPR, a public relations firm serving North Central Massachusetts and Worcester. A 25-year veteran of public relations, communications and media, Howe works to give brands a dynamic voice.
Finishing Touch Plus opens for business
Shrewsbury resident Kunon Taylor has launched Finishing Touch Plus, a property services and management company offering trash removal, property turnovers, residential cleaning, yard cleanup, painting and minor repairs.
The company will serve clients throughout Worcester County. Prospective customers can call or text 855-410-4784 for a free estimate.
About Building Worcester: Building Worcester is The Worcester Guardian’s weekly roundup of business, development and economic news from across the city, tracking major projects, new businesses, public meetings, commercial real estate and the decisions shaping Worcester’s future.
Have a tip about a new business, development project or commercial property? Email Executive Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org or reporter Mike Vigneux at MikeVigs@gmail.com.
