Business Update from the Town of Bedford
May 26, 2021
Bedford Receives State Cultural District Designation
The Massachusetts Cultural Council recently approved the new Bedford Cultural District! “The designation of the Bedford Cultural District is important to economic development and tourism in our region, especially as the economy recovers from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Bedford played a pivotal role in the birth of our nation and this honor is an important acknowledgment of the area’s cultural value,” said State Representative Ken Gordon (D- Bedford). 

“The Bedford Cultural District lies at the heart of our history, and our arts and cultural community, and I am thrilled that the Mass Cultural Council has approved the Cultural District designation for the Town of Bedford,” said Bedford Town Manager Sarah Stanton. “The status will help boost the District with the necessary resources to enhance this important community resource and visitor destination.”

Stay tuned for the launch of the Bedford Cultural District including events, historical and cultural resources to visit, as well as local businesses in the District for shopping and dining.
Massachusetts and Town of Bedford Reopening
Effective on May 29, all industries will be permitted to open. With the exception of remaining face-covering requirements for public and private transportation systems and facilities housing vulnerable populations, all industry restrictions will be lifted, and capacity will increase to 100% for all industries.
  • The gathering limit will be rescinded.
  • All industries will be encouraged to follow CDC guidance for cleaning and hygiene protocols.

The Town of Bedford follows the State regulations for COVID-19-related business protocols. For any questions, businesses should refer to the State Guidance at: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reopening-massachusetts, which provides details on face coverings, safety protocols, and travel advisories.

In accordance with the Governor Baker’s Reopening Announcement, as of Tuesday, June 1, Town of Bedford buildings and offices will be open to the public during regular business hours, with no appointments necessary. The Bedford Free Public Library building will open to the public on Wednesday, June 2.

Please see individual department webpages for operating hours and contact phone numbers should you have any questions. Most Town business can still be conducted online or by phone, and the drop box at the entrance to Town Hall will continue to be available for correspondence to all Town departments.

Masks will no longer be required in most settings, but non-vaccinated individuals are advised to wear a mask and maintain social distancing when around others. The Town will continue to follow CDC guidance for cleaning and hygiene protocols.
Temporary Outdoor Dining Program Update
Bedford’s Temporary Outdoor Dining Program is allowed to continue for 60 days after the Massachusetts State of Emergency is anticipated to end (or until August 14, 2021). There is proposed legislation to issue an extension of temporary outdoor dining provisions through November, and the Town will continue to work with businesses as updated state guidance becomes available.
B2 LIFE Job Training Program Expansion for Residents and Employees
The free B2 LIFE Job Training Program has expanded to allow residents and current and former employees of Bedford or Burlington companies to receive free job training in the high-demand industries of life sciences and health care.
Additional income requirements may be required but any Bedford resident who is currently unemployed is eligible for the free job training regardless of income level. Please see the dedicated B2 LIFE website here for more information about the program and courses available, and to sign up for training: https://b2life.org/. 
Three Commercial Districts – One Bike Trail
The Towns of Arlington, Bedford and Lexington jointly submitted an application to the Massachusetts Rapid Recovery Plan (RRP) Program. The RRP Program is aimed at assisting communities develop actionable plans to aid commercial areas recover from COVID-19. The idea is to create a plan to help revitalize Arlington Heights, Bedford Center and East Lexington Village with a particular focus on a common asset – the Minuteman Bikeway.
Come learn about the findings from our assessment, business survey and focus groups, and most important, share your ideas and priorities for possible projects and action steps.

Meeting Details:
Time: June 8, 2021 6:00 pm
Register in advance for this meeting:
Attention Bedford Business Owners: Our Stormwater Program needs your help…
Fertilize Wisely! Be the Solution to Stormwater Pollution!
Your landscaping efforts affect the quality of our rivers and streams. If you use a professional landscape company, please let them know that you care! 
  • Grass clippings should not be left on pavement, where they can be washed into the nearest storm drain system, adding unwanted nutrients to waterways.
  • Fertilizers and pesticides wash off lawn areas and pollute rivers and streams; use them sparingly and never before a predicted rain storm. Avoid over-watering, and keep in mind that organic, slow-release or phosphorus-free fertilizers are best!
Thank you for your cooperation!

For more information, please email the Town of Bedford Stormwater Management Team: StormWater@bedfordma.gov or visit www.bedfordma.gov/dpw/stormwater
Contact Alyssa Sandoval, Economic Development Director, at asandoval@bedfordma.gov for questions and guidance.
Town of Bedford | www.bedfordma.gov