What's Up Worcester

01/10/2026

We’re hosting our annual Pajama Drive to support children entering DCF care — and even one new pair of pajamas or socks can bring comfort during a really hard moment.

If you’re able, please drop off new pajamas or socks (all kids sizes, infant–adult S/M) in our lobby before Monday, January 19.

Thank you for showing up for kids when it matters most. 💛

01/09/2026

Fallon Health to Join Mass General Brigham: Worcester Chamber Calls for “Unabated” Local Support https://whatsupworcester.com/fallon-health-to-join-mass-general-brigham-worcester-chamber-calls-for-unabated-local-support/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fallon-health-to-join-mass-general-brigham-worcester-chamber-calls-for-unabated-local-support

A Worcester icon is joining the state's largest health system. Following today’s announcement that Fallon Health will be acquired by Mass General Brigham, we look at the potential impact on 1,000 local jobs, downtown's economy, and the future of Fallon’s $1M annual philanthropy in Central Mass.

01/09/2026

Fallon Health to Join Mass General Brigham: Worcester Chamber Calls for “Unabated” Local Support

A Worcester icon is joining the state's largest health system. Following today’s announcement that Fallon Health will be acquired by Mass General Brigham, we look at the potential impact on 1,000 local jobs, downtown's economy, and the future of Fallon’s $1M annual philanthropy in Central Mass.

01/08/2026

We are deeply saddened and disturbed by the tragic death of Renee Nicole Good during an ICE operation in Minneapolis. This is unacceptable and heartbreaking. No one should lose their life in this way, and it should not be happening on the streets of America.

We respect and support the right to peacefully protest, and we clearly condemn violence in all forms. As the full facts continue to come to light, our prayers and thoughts are with Renee Nicole Good’s family, loved ones, and everyone affected by this tragedy.

— What’s Up Worcester Team

01/08/2026

Housing Expansion Greenlit for West Boylston St Corridor. https://whatsupworcester.com/housing-expansion-greenlit-for-west-boylston-st-corridor/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=housing-expansion-greenlit-for-west-boylston-st-corridor

Worcester’s North End is density-bound. Following Wednesday's Planning Board approvals for new units on the West Boylston Street corridor, we break down what the 'North Woo' expansion means for traffic and infrastructure. Plus: The School Committee votes tonight on a critical MassGrad grant for No...

01/08/2026

We are incredibly humbled to share that we’ve been voted PLATINUM in not one, not two, but THREE categories 🥇 Platinum: Advertising 🥇 Platinum: Video Production 🥇 Platinum: Videographer 🥈 Gold: Community Org in the Community Votes Worcester 2025 awards.
To everyone who took the time to vote: Thank you. Your support is the fuel that keeps our creative engines running. We love telling the stories of this city, and receiving the Gold for Community Organization is especially meaningful to us as we strive to give back to the place we call home.
Congratulations to all our fellow nominees and winners. The level of talent in Worcester is inspiring, and we’re honored to be in your company.
Let’s make 2026 the best year yet! 🚀

01/08/2026

The Neon, The Froyo, and The Glass Elevator.

Before the site became a 121,000 SF Amazon Logistics Hub, it was the heart of North Worcester. In 1995, Greendale Mall was at its absolute peak. While the Galleria was for "the city," Greendale was for the neighborhood.

The 1995 Vibe Check:

The Anchors: Remember when Lechmere was the place for tech and Marshalls was the go-to for school clothes?

The Food Court: The scent of Auntie Anne’s hitting you from the garage. Who remembers the TCBY frozen yogurt right near the entrance?

The Architecture: That iconic sunken seating area in the center and the glass elevator that gave you the best view of the neon signs.

Where we are now: Today, the site has been reimagined. Following its demolition in 2021, the 16.5-acre parcel was redeveloped into a purpose-built distribution facility. The mall may be gone, but the "North Woo" economy is still anchored at 7 Neponset Street.

I can still hear the echoes of the fountain. If you spent your Friday nights here in the 90s, you know it was a different era. What was your 'must-visit' store?

01/07/2026

🚗❄️ Worcester Winter Parking Update ❄️🚗

The Declared Winter Parking Ban has been lifted as of 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026.

➡️ If you parked in a municipal garage during the ban, you have until 12 p.m. (noon) Thursday, Jan. 8 to exit without charge. Regular rates apply for vehicles entering garages after 8 p.m. Wednesday.

⚠️ A Permanent Winter Parking Ban remains in effect through April 30, 2026 on emergency arteries, WRTA bus routes, and key streets. No parking 2 a.m.–6 a.m. or anytime a snow emergency is declared.

🧹 Reminder: Property owners must clear and treat sidewalks within 10 hours after snowfall ends. Sidewalks must be cleared at least 4 feet wide, including curb ramps. Failure to comply may result in a $75 fine.

📞 Questions? Contact Worcester 311 by dialing 3-1-1, emailing [email protected], or visiting worcesterma.gov/311.

01/07/2026

THE NEW POWER MAP: The inauguration is over, and the real work begins. The Worcester City Council has officially released its 2026 Standing Committee assignments, and there are some major shifts in leadership.
Moe Bergman is taking the lead on Economic Development (watch out, Sector 5 developers!). 🚦 Jose Rivera takes the chair for Traffic & Parking—a huge test for the city's Vision Zero safety goals. 🌱 Luis Ojeda leads Urban Technologies to tackle climate and "smart city" growth.

These committees are where the city’s future is actually decided. Get the full scoop on what this means for your neighborhood:

👉 https://whatsupworcester.com/the-committees-that-will-build-or-block-2026/

01/07/2026

After-School Activities Canceled Today in Worcester Public Schools: Due to the weather forecast, after-school activities and evening programs are canceled today, Wednesday, January 7. Students should leave school at dismissal time. Please use caution while traveling.

01/07/2026

🎉 Kicking Off 2026 with Gratitude 🎉

We’re starting the year by showing love to the businesses and organizations that help make What’s Up Worcester possible. Community coverage doesn’t happen without community support and these sponsors stepped up. 🙌

💼 Embedded Counsel
⚡ Worcester EVs
💪 Body Vybes
👩‍👩‍👧 Central Mass Women’s Group
🏗️ Cruz Contracting

Because of partners like these, we’re able to keep highlighting local voices, covering important conversations, and showing up for Worcester — on the good days and the tough ones.

Please take a moment to check them out, support their work, and thank them for investing in our city. 💙

Here’s to a bigger, louder, more connected 2026.

01/07/2026

Please be aware that some school buses are experiencing delays in pick up due to the current weather conditions. We ask for your patience. Thank you.