Watertown, MA—A newly released report by MassEcon, the state’s economic development organization, reveals that demand for large-acreage sites suitable for non-retail commercial development in Massachusetts far exceeds current supply, potentially placing the state at an economic disadvantage.
According to the report, titled “Large Site Demand and Capacity in Massachusetts,” 76% of surveyed stakeholders believe the state does not have enough sites over 100 acres, and 90% agree that this lack of inventory is limiting Massachusetts’ ability to compete for major commercial projects. High-demand industries include climate-tech, logistics and distribution, data centers, and advanced manufacturing.
The I-495 West/Worcester County region was identified as the area with the highest demand for large site opportunities. Despite this, only 13 sites over 100 acres are currently available statewide. Many of these lack essential infrastructure, including adequate power capacity, access to municipal water and sewer systems, and sufficient road connectivity.
The report also highlights that several sites—while not currently on the market—could be made viable through targeted planning. This includes six additional 100+ acre sites and twelve sites ranging from 50 to 92 acres identified as potentially developable. A further set of twelve agricultural-zoned properties near major routes and some infrastructure were noted as long-term opportunities, pending rezoning and infrastructure upgrades.
Barriers to development cited in the report include limited power infrastructure, with only two large-acreage sites statewide capable of supporting electrical loads of 10 megawatts or more since 2022. Other inhibitors include slow permitting processes and reluctance to modify zoning regulations.
MassEcon’s findings suggest that proactive planning and infrastructure investment will be key to unlocking large-site development potential and sustaining Massachusetts’ economic growth.
The full report and an interactive site mapping database are available through MassEcon’s website.
