About Us

The Worcester Regional Research Bureau is a private, non-profit organization that conducts independent, non-partisan research and analysis on public policy issues affecting the greater Worcester region. By providing such policy data, the Bureau strives to promote more informed public debate and decision-making on financial, administrative, economic development, and public education issues facing Worcester's municipal government and the surrounding region.

     Since its founding in 1985, The Research Bureau has prepared over 210 reports on municipal and regional issues. The reports present detailed analyses of issues on which both citizens and public officials can base decisions that affect the welfare of everyone in local government and in the community. Our goal is to promote a hospitable climate in which citizens and businesses can live, work, and prosper.

     As part of its public education effort, The Research Bureau sponsors the Francis A. Harrington Forums on Municipal Government, which highlight particular municipal and regional issues. To date we have sponsored more than 160 forums. These programs are free and open to all interested citizens and public officials. The panelists have included prominent individuals on both the state and local level who have expertise on the subject being discussed. The forums are hosted by local area colleges and other venues, and are taped for rebroadcast a number of times on the local government channel. They are also available to download directly from the City of Worcester’s website.

     In order to disseminate the results of its research, the Bureau staff maintains regular contact with public officials to keep them apprised of its work. It presents testimony before the City Council, committees of the Council, committees of the State legislature, and various boards and commissions.

     The Research Bureau's staff also addresses civic organizations and community groups on various municipal and regional issues. The Bureau's views are solicited frequently by a number of organizations such as the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Colleges of Worcester Consortium.

     The local media also seeks out the Bureau's positions, and comments favorably on Research Bureau reports, forums, and other activities. The media coverage by the Telegram & Gazette, Charter Communications, WCTR-TV3, Worcester Business Journal, WTAG, and WCRN Radio helps to disseminate The Research Bureau's work and educate citizens about municipal and regional issues.