Worcester commission denies demolition-waiver for 20 Washington Square, triggers delay period

The Worcester Historical Commission denied a request to waive the city's demolition-delay ordinance for 20 Washington Square, meaning the 12-month delay period will take effect and the commission will monitor preservation outreach. Chair Erica Helnarski led the discussion as attorney Steven McGouse said the owner does not yet have final redevelopment plans and acknowledged the waiver application was filed knowing a denial was possible.

Advocates urged the commission to use the delay to pursue rehabilitation options. Patrick Maloney, executive director of Preservation Worcester, argued that the Cooney Block is a well-crafted 19th-century building and urged the commission to "deny the request to waive the demolition delay ordinance and allow the time necessary to explore meaningful preservation alternatives." Commissioners repeatedly noted the ordinance's purpose: to provide an opportunity for rehabilitation or alternative ownership to emerge. After discussion the commission voted against the waiver motion, and staff said a written decision with the delay expiration date will be issued; the commission scheduled a status update for Aug. 20 to receive any owner outreach or progress reports.