Center for
Urban Agriculture and Food Security
The Regional Environmental Council (REC) is creating a new home for urban agriculture, youth development, and food access in Main South.
Construction is now underway on REC’s new Center for Urban Agriculture and Food Security, including a community greenhouse at the YouthGROW Farm and expanded community space at REC’s new headquarters at 108 Beacon Street.
What's happening here?
This project will create:
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A new community greenhouse
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Expanded space for youth leadership and education programs
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Improved food distribution infrastructure
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Community gathering and learning space
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Long-term investment in the Main South neighborhood
At the same time, neighboring mill buildings are being redeveloped into affordable housing, helping transform this area into a stronger, healthier, and more connected community
why this matters
REC’s programs help:
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Young people develop leadership and job skills through YouthGROW
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Families access fresh, locally grown food
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Community and school gardens thrive across Worcester
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Local farmers connect with residents through markets and food distribution programs
This new campus will allow REC to expand these efforts for years to come.
frequently asked questions
What is being built here? REC is building a new Center for Urban Agriculture and Food Security, including a large community greenhouse and expanded space for youth programs, food distribution, and community events.
Why is construction happening now? This project has been in planning for several years and is moving forward thanks to strong community support, public funding, and successful fundraising through REC’s capital campaign.
What will the greenhouse be used for? The greenhouse will support year-round food production, youth education, seedling cultivation, and community-based urban agriculture programming.
Will REC programs continue during construction? Yes. REC’s programs, including YouthGROW, community gardens, and farmers market operations, are continuing throughout construction.
Will the farm still be active? Yes. Farming and educational activities will continue as safely as possible during construction.
How long will construction last? Construction is expected to continue over the next couple of years as both REC’s campus improvements and neighboring affordable housing developments move forward.
What is happening in the neighboring buildings? Adjacent mill buildings are being redeveloped into affordable housing as part of a larger neighborhood investment in Main South.
How is this project funded? Funding comes from a combination of private donations, foundation grants, government support, and community fundraising through REC’s capital campaign.
Will this project benefit the neighborhood? Yes. The project will expand access to healthy food, create educational opportunities for youth, strengthen local food systems, and provide new community gathering space.
Who can I contact with questions? You can contact the Regional Environmental Council at: info@recworcester.org or 508-799-9139
Can I make a donation to the project? Yes! We would be grateful for your support! You can make a donation at https://www.recworcester.org/capital-campaign
Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support while construction is underway. We know projects like this can bring changes and disruptions, and we truly appreciate our neighbors and community members for being part of this journey with us.
This new space is being built for the community — a place where young people can learn and grow, where neighbors can gather, and where fresh, healthy food can be shared and celebrated. We hope you’ll join us in the years ahead for farm visits, workshops, markets, volunteer opportunities, and community events.
We are so excited for what’s ahead and grateful to be building this future together with Worcester. We look forward to welcoming you soon.