Downtown Marlborough Pop-Up Shops To Return Under MEDC Budget

MARLBOROUGH, MA — The Marlborough Economic Development Corp. will seek a 10 percent budget increase for the upcoming fiscal year in part to keep a popular downtown business initiative going.

Between May and December 2023, the MEDC used a grant to open pop-up retail shops downtown behind city hall. The businesses operated out of three sheds, rotating each week. The program was sponsored by a grant from the state Office of Economic Development and the 495 MetroWest Partnership.

To keep the program going in 2024, the MEDC is seeking $20,000 for the pop-ups to add amenities like Wi-Fi and porta potties, and to spend on advertising for the pop-ups. The MEDC also wants to spend $20,000 to turn a part-time position into a full-time position to help administer the program.

The MEDC is also asking the city for a separate $150,000 appropriation for the Economic Development Toolbox fund. The toolbox fund awards grants to local businesses to pay for things like rent and tax assistance and beautification. The MEDC is seeking more than the $100,000 fiscal 2024 appropriation due to an increased demand, according to the budget proposal.