STOnEHAM Square

Stoneham Square is the heart of Stoneham's downtown center.  The Town Center is being improved with a five-year action plan to improve public transportation and walkability, add community events, and beautify the streetscapes. The aim is to make the area function better for businesses, residents and visitors. But don't forget we have other great things outside the immediate Stoneham Square area, such as shopping, dining and the fantastic Middlesex Fells.

MAPC Strategic action PlAN

In 2014, the Town of Stoneham and interested citizens worked with the MAPC (Metropolitan Area Planning Council) on a Town Center Action Plan to help revitalize Stoneham, particularly the Town Center. 

Streetscape

The plan calls for creating a cohesive downtown improvements. As part of the this effort, the Town of Stoneham is offering grants to help local businesses upgrade their facades and signs. You can contact the Town Planner for more details.  

Business opportunities

Interested in starting a business in Stoneham?  You can read a .market study that is part of the Action Plan.  The  Merchants group is also working with the Chamber of Commerce to develop a guide to opening a business in Stoneham. 

improving Transportation

Improving access and transportation is also part of the plan. An exciting development from this plan is the expanded evening service on the MBTA Route 132 Bus, which starts on March 19, 2016.  See below for more on what the Transportation Committee is working on. 

action groups

A number of groups are involved with implementing the aims of the action plan. If you live locally, you can join one of the groups, which concentrate on business, transportation and the improving the neighborhood. .

merchants' group

The Merchants Group works on issues surrounding running a business in the Stoneham and Stoneham Square.  They are working on issues such as clearer parking signage and improving wayfaring in the downtown area.   

neighborhood group

Meetings are generally the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7 pm. The group is working on events for the coming year such as an upcoming chili cookout, concerts and walks.  You don't have to live in Stoneham Square to be part of the group.

transportation group

The Stoneham Transportation Advisory Committee (or STAC) works to improve transportation in Stoneham. This might be everything from expanded MBTA bus service and improved vehicle parking signs and maps to snow removal and bike parking and Complete Street initiatives. Meetings are generally held on the first Monday of the month at the Stoneham Senior Center.