Senior Center at John B. Gough House
A crucial resource for the over 30% of Boylston residents aged 60 and over
Investing in our community
Boylston is home to over 1,600 residents over the age of 60. It is the vision of the Boylston Betterment Alliance to provide this established and important part of our community with the resources to stay engaged and active in their golden years. The Town House has served as a meeting place for our seniors in the past, but the building is outdated and lacks what is needed to expand services and programs to meet the growing needs of our community.
After a two-year period of evaluation by the Town Feasibility Committee, the feasibility study offered several key insights into why the Gough House was the best choice for Boylston's Senior Center. The greatest advantage, a huge cost savings for a building that has already been partially restored.
We encourage you to learn more about the John B. Gough Senior Center project in the sections below. The warrants have been split and now residents have a choice to make. We hope you'll agree that moving forward on this project is in the best interests of our residents. Be sure to VOTE YES at Town Meeting on May 5.
Completed and Planned Renovations
2022 Feasibility Study
After reviewing proposed plans that estimated new construction costs for a senior center at $11.9 million, the Boylston Board of Selectmen recognized the need for a more affordable solution. One that could still deliver a high-quality facility for our seniors and community.
The same feasibility study that brought about the fire station project, was also set to find the best way forward for a senior center. The Gough House emerged as the most cost-effective option, thanks to extensive restoration work already completed through previous efforts led by the Hillside Restoration Project. This allows the town to move forward with a thoughtful renovation plan at a significantly lower estimated cost of $4.4 million.
See the videos below to walk through the Gough House and learn more about why this is the most economical and feasible way forward for a senior and community center for Boylston. You can see the beautiful restorations that have already been completed, offering substantial savings. Everyone should be able to enjoy this beautiful landmark that is beloved part of Boylston's history. Click to play, scroll right to see more videos! (Videos courtesy of WBAC.)
Reshuffling the deck
Click the cards below to reveal how the decision makers had to pivot to support the best plan for Boylston.
Initial proposal
A renovation of the old fire station to a senior center and a new build of a public safety complex.
Going forward
Gough Senior Center:
$4.4 million
Fire station build:
$15 million
New plan from Austin Design cuts costs by more than 50%!
Serious savings
A costly venture
Senior center renovation:
$11.7 million
Public safety complex:
$29.3 million
Completed Renovation Work
In 2003 the building was leased to the Hillside Restoration Project, which spearheaded the restoration efforts. The group was able to raise over $1.8 million dollars from multiple sources including local, state, federal and private entities. These funds were invested into several much-needed repairs.
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Full steel and concrete reinforcement of the rear wing framing to provide an infrastructure for future use as a public space.
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Historic restoration of the ground floor of the front wing, providing the Town residents with the Gough library, sunroom, meeting space and finished hall leading to the rear wing.
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Planning and support for the next phase of the renovation.
Click the image below to view a 3D tour of the current state of the Gough House. You'll be surprised to see how far the restoration has already come. This is a big reason why the Gough House is the best choice for the senior center. Critical restoration work has already been completed. The intent of this phase of the work is to complete the building with modern finishes and equipment to enable its functional re-use and contributing resource to the town.
Proposed Renovations for the new Senior Center
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A new entrance with a ground floor lobby and elevator access to all floors.
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Full renovations of the unfinished spaces and creation of a multi-purpose room, fitness room, library, smaller meeting rooms and a wellness office.
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Alterations to the grade and landscape to provide accessible parking close to the building entrance and safe access from the parking lots to the North and West. A loop driveway and drop off area at the entrance.
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New windows, high levels of insulation and modern fuel efficient all electric HVAC systems will reduce operating costs in both Summer and Winter.
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Estimated renovation costs: $4.4 million.
Shown below are drawings provided by the Austin Design Cooperative, showing proposed updates to the Gough House. These designs are preliminary, and await comments and feedback before finalization.
Programs and Community Benefits
The John B. Gough Senior Center vision is to provide a central space for our seniors to stay connected to the community.
Seniors can expect engaging social and recreational activities, fitness classes, educational workshops, counseling, caregiver support, minimal-cost weekly meals, and more.
Fitness programs to stay active and healthy. Expert-led discussions on legal, elder care, and counseling topics.
Weekly health assessments with the town nurse. Monthly support group for caregivers.
Replaces the Town House with an updated, ADA-compliant building equipped with modern conveniences.
A full-time director, support staff, and transportation services will help seniors stay engaged and connected.
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Craft Workshops
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Live Music events
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Themed Parties
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Art classes
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Dancing classes
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Guest speakers
9,870
SQ FT OF
INTERIOR SPACE
5.7 mil
Assessed property Value
1998
restoration efforts started
1.8 mil
raised for restoration
by hRP
History of the John B. Gough House
Overview
Originally built in 1848 as the family residence of renowned temperance orator John B. Gough, the estate has served multiple purposes over the years but has remained vacant for an extended period. Recognizing its historical significance, the U.S. Park Service designated it a National Historic Landmark in 1975, and it was later listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In 1997, the Town of Boylston acquired the property through eminent domain, committing to its preservation. Over the years, restoration efforts have taken place, with major structural renovations completed in 2017. In 2023, Austin Design was commissioned to conduct a feasibility study, shaping the vision for its full restoration and transformation into a community asset.
By the Numbers
SQ FT OF
INTERIOR SPACE
9,870
Assessed property Value
5.7 mil
restoration efforts started
1998
raised for restoration
by hRP
1.8 mil
Frequently Asked Questions
What will the project cost?
The cost for the renovation of the senior center is estimated at $4.4 million. The Boylston Selectmen have recently decided to split the Senior Center and Fire Station projects into two separate warrants for residents to vote on. Residents will have the opportunity to vote on each project individually.
How will the town decide whether to proceed on the project or not?
Boylston residents will have the opportunity to vote on the warrant at the next Boylston Town Meeting on May 5, 2025. If the warrant receives enough yes votes, the residents will have the opportunity to vote in the next town election one week later on May 12, 2025.
If approved, how much will Boylston resident taxes increase?
The cost of the project will be spread over a 20-year term, with the property tax rate starting off low in the first 3 years and then leveling out to add $0.23 per thousand of the assessed value of one’s home. See the table below for a breakdown yearly costs to pay for the Senior Center project. Over the 20 year term, a home that is assessed at $600,000 would pay tax anywhere from $22 to $139 per year.
Property Tax Effect over 20 years
What programs and activities will be available for Boylston seniors?
The new Senior Center will offer a diverse range of programs in a modern, spacious facility. While planning is ongoing, seniors can look forward to:
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Educational workshops on support services, financial planning, insurance, and long-term care.
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Fitness programs to improve strength, balance, and flexibility, reducing fall risks.
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Discussion groups led by community providers, focusing on independence and well-being.
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Monthly caregiver support groups for those caring for elderly loved ones.
With expanded space and resources, the new Senior Center will provide more opportunities for engagement, learning, and wellness for Boylston’s seniors.
Will there be other uses for the Senior Center?
Yes. The Senior Center will be available to other groups outside of the regular business hours of 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday. That leaves evenings and weekends for community groups to gather and hold events.