Lowell, Fitchburg Chosen for MassDevelopment Transformative Development Initiative

Six Gateway Cities in Massachusetts selected for second round of program aimed at economic growth in downtown neighborhoods and commercial districts.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The cities of Lowell and Fitchburg have been named as two of six Gateway Cities in Massachusetts to participate in the second round of the MassDevelopment Transformative Development Initiative (TDI). Through this program, TDI fellows from MassDevelopment will provide expertise and access to tools to help accelerate development within designated districts in each community over the next three years.

Why it matters

The TDI program is designed to spur economic growth and revitalization in downtown and commercial areas of mid-sized, formerly industrial Gateway Cities that serve as regional economic anchors. By investing in real estate development, small business support, arts and culture amenities, and technical assistance, the initiative aims to help these communities strengthen local partnerships, foster vibrancy, and attract further investment.

The details

Lowell's new TDI district will be centered around the neighborhood known as Cambodia Town, while Fitchburg's focus will be on the Water Street corridor. Both cities previously participated in the TDI program, with Lowell's first round concluding this year and Fitchburg starting a cycle in 2018. Through the initiative, the cities will receive support for priorities like small business assistance, infrastructure improvements, and investments in cultural assets.

  • The first TDI for Lowell, known as The Acre Partnership, has been active since 2022.
  • Lowell's new TDI district will begin in 2026 after the current program concludes.
  • Fitchburg previously participated in the TDI starting in 2018, and its second round will begin in 2026.

The players

MassDevelopment

A state economic development agency that administers the Transformative Development Initiative program to spur growth in Gateway Cities.

Eric Paley

Economic Development Secretary and MassDevelopment's Board of Directors Chair.

Navjeet Bal

President and CEO of MassDevelopment.

John Cronin

State Senator representing Fitchburg and co-chair of the Gateway Cities Legislative Caucus.

Erik Gitschier

Mayor of Lowell.

Samantha Squailia

Mayor of Fitchburg.

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What they’re saying

“MassDevelopment's Transformative Development Initiative brings a full-time economic development professional and a suite of tools and resources to help cities advance a shared vision for their downtown or commercial district. We look forward to seeing how this program continues to help communities strengthen local partnerships, support small businesses, foster vibrancy, and lay the groundwork for additional investment.”

— Eric Paley, Economic Development Secretary and MassDevelopment's Board of Directors Chair

“Since its creation in 2015, we've seen our Transformative Development Initiative help Gateway Cities kickstart meaningful revitalization by empowering community members, providing collaborative leadership, and injecting resources to advance key real estate, small business, and creative economy projects. MassDevelopment is proud to continue delivering this type of support in six newly designated districts in Chelsea, Fitchburg, Holyoke, Lowell, Malden, and Peabody. Together with our new Gateway Network, MassDevelopment is continuing its long-term commitment to ensuring Gateway Cities remain competitive, vibrant hubs and regional centers of economic opportunity.”

— Navjeet Bal, President and CEO of MassDevelopment

“The TDI has helped Gateway Cities across the Commonwealth spur economic growth, revitalize neighborhoods, and position communities and residents for long term success. I'm excited for the impact TDI will have on these communities and look forward to continuing to support this program and other initiatives to help realize the full potential of all of our Gateway Cities.”

— John Cronin, State Senator and co-chair of the Gateway Cities Legislative Caucus

“Cambodia Town is an essential part of our city's identity and economy. Through this partnership, we will continue to celebrate its cultural heritage while strengthening opportunities for small businesses, residents, and future generations.”

— Erik Gitschier, Mayor of Lowell

“The Water Street Corridor is a gateway area that connects residents and small businesses to downtown, MBTA / MART Intermodal Transit Center, and the Twin Cities Rail Trail. This initiative is going to be a perfect transformative connective force for the work we've been pushing on corridor improvements, small business support, and creating strong connections between key assets like the Rail Trail, the Fifth Street bridge, nearby parks, and our broader downtown.”

— Samantha Squailia, Mayor of Fitchburg

What’s next

As MassDevelopment moves through the onboarding process for each city, a full map of the designated districts and detailed work plans will be made available, outlining the early projects and priorities for the initiative in Lowell and Fitchburg.

The takeaway

The Transformative Development Initiative demonstrates MassDevelopment's ongoing commitment to revitalizing Gateway Cities and supporting community-driven economic growth. By empowering local leaders, small businesses, and cultural assets, the program aims to position Lowell and Fitchburg as vibrant, competitive regional hubs.