Shrewsbury Industrial Park Sold

Elaine Thompson, Worcester Telegram & Gazette

SHREWSBURY — A local developer has purchased CenTech Park East for $3 million.

Robert E. Moss of Moss Development of Westboro purchased the four lots, totaling about 84 acres, this week from the Worcester Business Development Corp.

Julie A. Holstrom, project manager with the WBDC, said the project is the result of state and federal assistance and will become 650,000 square feet of development.

It is zoned for light industry/manufacturing.

At the groundbreaking ceremonies in June, officials said about 600 jobs will be created. It will also help expand the town’s tax base.

“This is a big win for the town of Shrewsbury and Central Massachusetts,” said Ms. Holstrom.

The property and neighboring CenTech Park, which has been successfully developed by the WBDC, is part of the former Grafton State Hospital.

CenTech Park East’s 1,800-foot access road was paid for through a $2 million federal grant and a $1 million state public works grant.

Town Manager Daniel J. Morgado said the latest development is the continuation of work the town has been doing with the WBDC and Grafton since 1987.

“It’s been a process of step by step, very slowly working to get this industrial area prepared. We’re very pleased the property is now in the hands of a private individual who will proceed to develop it to its highest and best use,” Mr. Morgado said.

Mr. Moss did not return a phone call seeking comment.

The project is expected to create about 600 jobs and is near its model, CenTech Park, most of which is in Grafton and now hosts multiple companies. Shrewsbury and Grafton agreed to build CenTech Boulevard, which improved access to Route 20.