Director Stevens Inviting Public to Master Plan Open House
The Gardner Master Plan Open House will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 6-7pm in Perry Auditorium.
Gardner Community Development and Planning Director Jason Stevens stated this about the event: “Help set Gardner’s direction for the next 10–20 years. At this open house, you’ll move at your own pace through stations covering our draft values, community vision, inventory & assessment findings, and the key issues we’ve heard so far. Add quick comments, place stickers to show support or concerns, and leave detailed notes where you wish.
Your feedback will directly shape goals, strategies, and near-term actions in the Master Plan. All ages welcome. What to expect: – Self-guided boards, simple activities, staff on hand to answer questions. – Can’t attend? Share input online at (CLICK HERE)
– Accessibility & language: The venue is accessible. To request accommodations or translation/interpretation, contact Jason Stevens, jstevens@gardner-ma.gov. “
Show up and Help shape the Master Plan in these and other areas:
You will help shape the section on Housing – The Master Plan housing element will provide an assessment of population growth and demographics, household, and housing data sufficient for someone to understand Gardner’s development history and to see how housing policies have influenced the size and make-up of the city’s households. This element will identify current and future housing needs in the City and programs and policies by which Gardner can meet those needs in a sustainable manner.
You will help shape the section on Economic Development – Economic development is about how people live and work and the opportunities they have to maintain or improve their quality of life. Jobs, wages, education and skills, access to employment choices, and availability of goods and services are all part of a community’s economy. This element will summarize the status of economic activity in Gardner and describe the City’s efforts to further develop economic strategies consistent with residents’ needs and the City’s character.
You will help shape the section on Land Use – Land use is the centerpiece of every master plan. It describes the long-term plan for conservation and development, designating critical natural resources and open space as ‘protection areas’ and developable land as ‘growth areas’ for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. This element will form the basis for future zoning, sustainable development, and other regulatory changes to implement the master plan.
You will help shape the section on Transportation – The Master Plan’s transportation element focuses on the City’s current and proposed transportation system of roadways, bike paths, sidewalks, and parking. This element will address current transportation issues and future challenges associated with growth and change, both locally and in the region. It will identify strategies to improve multi-modal mobility and connectivity within the City and to key regional destinations.