Boroughs

Understand

The traveler is not likely to end up in the Boroughs while on vacation, unless simply passing through. They are primarily suburban in nature with many residents commuting to either Boston or Worcester. However, the three towns are home to many large corporate headquarters or other offices, especially Westborough, so many people will end up in the area on business travel.

Despite being located in Central Massachusetts, the Boroughs have more in common with the neighboring Metrowest (actually located to the east). The three towns are among the most affluent in Massachusetts and couldn't be more different from the rural western part of the region. Until the second half of the 20th century, the Boroughs were an agricultural area. There was never much industrial development in the area, so it is not pockmarked with abandoned mill buildings. The few mills that were built have been converted into luxury condos or office space.

Two towns in the Boroughs, Westborough and Southborough, are part of the historic Armpit of Worcester County region, along with Upton and Milford.

History

The Boroughs were originally part of the town (now city) of Marlborough, located to the northwest. In 1717, the "west Borough of Marlborough" split off and become Westborough. 10 years later the "south Borough of Marlborough" split off and became Southborough. Finally, in 1775 the "north Borough of Westborough" split off and became Northborough, later annexing some territory from Marlborough. This explains the confusing geographic/name relationships among the towns since Marlborough extends further north than Northborough, Northborough extends further west than Westborough, and Westborough extends further south than Southborough. The historical context makes the seemingly odd naming more sensible. The most famous resident of the area is probably Eli Whitney, who was born in Westborough and later went on to invent the cotton gin.

Get in

By car

The Boroughs are easily accessible by car as they are located at one of the major highway nodes in New England. The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and I-495 intersect in Westborough, providing access from east or west. I-495 runs north-south and has exits serving all three towns. Massachusetts Route 9 runs east-west through Southborough and Westborough, intersecting I-495 in Westborough. Finally, I-290 provides access to the northern parts of Northborough.

By train

MBTA Commuter Rail serves Westborough and Soutborough (Cordaville station); however, neither station is located within walking distance of any attractions, major offices, or hotels. Public transit options are limited, so one would have to arrange a ride from the station.

By plane

There is no major airport in the area. The best airport options are Logan International in Boston and T.F. Green in Providence Both are located about an hour away.

Get around

By car

A car is a necessity for getting around the Boroughs. Public transportation is nearly non-existent, and the three towns are quite spread out, making walking impractical. MA Route 9 (east-west) and I-495 (north-south) are the major highways that are useful for traveling within the Boroughs. Traffic on both is very heavy at most times and can come to a standstill at rush hour. As most people will come here on business, these roads are almost unavoidable.

Stay safe

There is very little crime here. Driving is the biggest hazard. Drivers on Route 9 are particularly aggressive and speeds of 15-20 mph over the speed limit are somewhat common. Winter in Central Massachusetts can be quite harsh, with even the major highways becoming impassable during big snowstorms.

Go next

• Worcester is the closest city, located about 25 minutes to the west.
• Boston is about 35 minutes to the east.
• Providence is about and hour away to the south.