Westborough Proposes ‘Peanut’ Roundabout To Redesign Downtown Rotary

WESTBOROUGH, MA — A long-standing rotary in downtown Westborough could soon be redesigned, as town officials advance a proposal to replace it with a "peanut-shaped" roundabout.

The intersection connects East Main Street, West Main Street, South Street, and two separate segments of Milk Street, creating a complex traffic pattern, according to Downtown Improvement Project materials.

The rotary's problems are both "functional and aesthetic", according to a local consulting firm, Kimley-Horn, which presented the Planning Board with a proposal back in Dec. 2025. There have been 236 reported crashes in or near the circle, according to the firm.

That proposal builds on Westborough’s Downtown Plan, completed in July 2024, which outlines long-term goals to improve safety, walkability and downtown design.

The “Peanut” Roundabout

The proposed peanut-shaped roundabout would replace the existing rotary with a simpler, cleaner version of the current one. Westborough TV shared a video about the proposed changes, along with a simulation of the peanut-shaped roundabout.

The simulation shows that with a peanut shape, the town is looking to create defined entry points, consistent signage and a predictable path through the rotary, making it safer while keeping traffic moving.

According to the Westborough TV video simulation, parking would be moved away from the rotary with new spaces nearby on Union and Milk Streets.

Kimley-Horn representatives told the Worcester Telegram & Gazette that 40 to 50 street parking spots could be lost with the new design. Several business owners have shared their disapproval of the peanut design with the news outlet.

Meanwhile, Kimley-Horn's presentation said bike accommodations would also be included, along with wider sidewalks, and the monument in the middle of the rotary would remain unchanged.

The project is partially funded through a $372,000 MassWorks Infrastructure grant awarded by the state in 2024.

"The project will enable a 25% engineering design for Westborough’s downtown area, including the rotary," according to the 2024 MassWorks Awards list. "The plan seeks to implement traffic calming measures, improve parking management, and emphasize pedestrian connections."

Public Input

Town officials say the project has been shaped by public meetings, community events and discussions with residents and business owners. Westborough worked with RKG Associates, a consulting firm, to develop its revitalization strategy, according to the town.

A public open house will be held on Apr. 15 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Forbes Municipal Building’s Great Hall at 45 West Main St., according to a town announcement.

Residents can also review project materials and submit feedback through the town’s Downtown Improvement Project webpage.

See Also:

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