Clark University Exploring Long-Vacant Park Avenue Site

WORCESTER, MA — Clark University is exploring the viability of an enormous vacant parcel along Park Avenue, signaling a possible rebirth for a site that has been empty for nearly a decade.

The university got permission from the Worcester Conservation Commission on Monday to test soil under a nearly 7-acre parcel at the corner of Park Avenue and Maywood Street. Clark has already conducted a surface-level environmental review of the site, which turned up possible anomalies, according to a Conservation Commission application.

The parcel is divided into two sections. A 6-1/2 acre portion at 520 Park Ave. was the home of Diamond Chevrolet for more than six decades until the dealership closed and moved to Auburn in 2012. The Diamond Chevrolet building stood until 2017 when it was demolished. The second piece, which is just under 1 acre, is located at 111 Maywood St., and was formerly a mechanic shop.

The parcels were put up for sale at $7.9 million by Worcester-based Kelleher & Sadowsky. The firm marketed the property as a good site for either a commercial development or student housing.

William Kelleher declined to comment Monday on a proposed sale of the land.

In a statement, Clark called the site exploration request part of a "routine assessment."

"Clark University regularly considers opportunities to invest in the area," the statement said. "The presentation this evening is part of a routine assessment of the property on Park Avenue. There is nothing further to share at this point. When we have any specific plans to share, we will of course communicate with the Clark community and our neighbors.”

The property is owned by Worcester attorney Pamela Massad through a trusteeship, according to city property records. She is the daughter of Diamond Chevrolet founder David "Duddie" Massad, who died in 2018 at age 90, according to his obituary.

111 Maywood St. is owned by a company called Jerak Reality, whose directors are listed as Pamela Massad and David Massad II, according to state records.