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Main Street Project

Main Street project render

In order to better serve the needs of our students and our community, Clark has plans to renovate the block of Main Street between Woodland Street and Hawthorne Street. Expected to open in August of 2026, the project will contribute to the social, cultural, and economic vitality of Clark and Main South.

Main Street project courtyard render

Modernized Student Housing

With a marked increase in students wanting to live on campus, the Main Street Project will address the urgent need to expand our housing options. The new building will support a range of room types, including more affordable options to enhance the on-campus student experience. In the fall semester, we engaged students in focus groups to help guide the rooms and common spaces that will be included in the design.

Rendering of the project from the intersection of Main and Hawthorne Streets

Vibrant Retail Hub

The retail spaces on this block are long-standing fixtures in the Main South community. New spaces at the street level will be designed to provide improved facilities for local and small businesses, with the goal of accommodating current tenants that are interested in returning. We held sessions with local community members and business owners to gather input and assist them in planning for the transition and disruption of construction.

Community engagement fair

A Community Endeavor

Clark is working with community partners and the city of Worcester in a coordinated effort to imagine the future of this important stretch of Main Street. Our vision is that the new buildings efficiently adapt toward contemporary standards for accessibility, sustainability, housing, and retail.

Community Engagement to Date

Activity Timing
1st Conversations with Small Business Tenants Spring 2022
Student Housing Survey, Initial Presentations to Student Government, Faculty, and Staff Spring 2023
Community Organizations, City and Elected Officials Spring 2023 – Ongoing
Community Outreach Session Aug. 8, 2023
Worcester Historical Commission Hearing Aug. 10, 2023
Clark Faculty / Staff Information Session Sept. 7, 2023
Preservation Worcester Meeting #1 Sept. 9, 2023
Student Focus Groups – 3 sessions Sept. 19, 2023
Preservation Worcester Meeting #2 Sept. 19, 2023
Student Residence Hall Conversations Sept. 26 – Oct. 24, 2023
Next Community Stakeholder Meeting October 2023
City Planning Board November 2023

 

Planning, Design, and Construction Schedule

Activity Timing
Pre-Development Studies, Planning and Design Spring 2023 – Spring 2024
Abatement & Demolition of Existing Facilities May – August 2024
New Construction Period September 2024 – July 2026
Student Move-ins / Occupancy August 2026

In the News

Main Street, Worcester

Telegram & Gazette

Clark University revises housing complex in Main South

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David Fithian

Telegram & Gazette

Guest column: Strong town-gown bonds vital at Clark

Read Story