At BisNow’s recent State of the Market – Worcester event, VHB’s Worcester Director of Land Development, Brittany Gesner, joined regional leaders to discuss the evolution of the City’s housing landscape. As demand for housing continues to outpace supply across the Commonwealth, Worcester has emerged as one of the most development-friendly cities in Massachusetts. “The market is hot and highly conducive to development,” Brittany noted, pointing to the city’s proactive stance on increasing housing stock and its commitment to supporting growth at every level.
Brittany highlighted several recent projects that illustrate Worcester’s innovative approach to housing challenges. VHB’s work on Chestnut Place—the state’s largest office-to-residential conversion—is transforming an underused asset into 199 new homes, while projects like the Wood Partners development Alta on the Row demonstrate the city’s eagerness to expand density when feasible. A proposed rezoning effort on the city’s western edge further reflects Worcester’s flexibility in enabling higher-density housing, and an 11-story modular tower now in design is pioneering new construction techniques that could help offset rising costs and accelerate delivery.
Even with the city’s strong momentum, Brittany emphasized the tension between policy goals and project realities. Inclusionary zoning and sustainability requirements such as all-electric and Passive House standards, while well-intentioned, often challenge the financial viability of new multifamily projects. “Developers are eager to build responsibly,” she explained, “but the cost of compliance and limited grid capacity can slow projects that would otherwise meet critical housing needs.” VHB’s local Energy Market team is helping pave the way by working with utilities and municipalities to strengthen the grid and support renewable integration to make sustainable development more attainable.
When asked what advice she’d give new developers entering the Worcester market, Brittany’s message was clear: engage early and collaboratively. “City leadership here is extremely pro-development—creative, strategic, and responsive,” she said. With two decades of experience and strong relationships across local agencies, VHB continues to play a pivotal role in connecting developers with city officials and advancing projects that meet both market demand and community goals. Worcester’s growth story, Brittany emphasized, is a testament to what’s possible when innovation, policy, and partnership align.
Discover how VHB works with developers, state agencies, and community members to develop innovative solutions that expedite housing projects and contribute to stronger, more resilient communities.
