Transit-Supportive Residential Development

Worcester continues to emerge as one of the most competitive and active housing markets in the Northeast, driven by its relative affordability compared to the Greater Boston area and ongoing investment in its urban core. Frequently recognized among the nation’s top housing markets, the City is experiencing sustained demand for well-located, high-quality housing that supports walkability, transit access, and urban living. Within this context, the redevelopment of 27 Chandler Street and 47–57 Irving Street represents a strategic reinvestment in a 0.40 acre underutilized downtown site, introducing a new five-story multifamily building with 81 units. Positioned within Worcester’s Downtown Subarea, the project reflects a transit-supportive development approach, leveraging proximity to public transportation, employment centers, and neighborhood amenities while minimizing reliance on private vehicles.

Solli provided site/civil engineering and land development services to advance the project through planning, design, and permitting. Engineering efforts focused on maximizing development potential within a constrained urban footprint while integrating critical infrastructure systems. The team prepared detailed site plans including layout, grading, drainage, stormwater management, utility design, and erosion and sediment control measures in accordance with Massachusetts Stormwater Standards and City of Worcester requirements. Stormwater strategies were designed to improve site performance relative to existing fully impervious conditions, incorporating best management practices to reduce runoff, support groundwater recharge, and provide water quality treatment. Utility infrastructure—including water, sanitary sewer, electric, telecommunications, and natural gas—was carefully coordinated with existing municipal systems within Chandler and Irving Streets to ensure capacity, constructability, and regulatory compliance.

A defining element of the redevelopment is its emphasis on walkability, which is increasingly central to modern urban housing design. The site plan prioritizes safe and direct pedestrian connections along both street frontages and includes a planned linkage to an adjacent structured parking facility, enhancing access while maintaining a pedestrian-oriented environment. This approach supports a lifestyle that is highly valued by young professionals, families, and downsizing residents seeking proximity to transit, services, and employment opportunities. By strengthening connections to nearby bus routes, regional rail access, and the surrounding neighborhood, the project contributes to a more integrated and accessible urban environment.

The design also addressed key considerations related to subsurface conditions, construction feasibility, and permitting coordination through Worcester’s Site Plan Review process. Close collaboration with City departments ensured that infrastructure systems, pedestrian improvements, and public realm elements were aligned with municipal standards and long-term planning goals. Through a coordinated approach to site engineering, infrastructure design, and urban integration, the project supports Worcester’s continued growth by delivering new housing while enhancing the functionality, sustainability, and connectivity of the downtown environment.